Tarangire National Park derives its name from the river that meanders through the entire length of the reserve. This reserve boasts a remarkable array of wildlife, including giraffes, buffalos, lesser kudus, elands, oryxes, zebras, and various predators. The sanctuary is home to exceptionally large herds of elephants, while the majestic baobab trees tower over the animals that graze beneath them. Tarangire, situated in the southern region of Masai land, is a hidden scenic gem characterized by expansive vistas of open acacia woodland and grassy savannas adorned with towering baobab trees.
During the dry season from June to October, immense herds of elephants and other large game species peacefully migrate towards the shimmering blue waters of Tarangire River. Unique resident species such as fringe-eared oryx and lesser kudu can be found here, and lions are a common sight.
Ornithologists consider Tarangire a paradise, as it offers an abundance of bird species. To enrich your experience, we highly recommend participating in tribe visits and guided walks to immerse yourself in the fascinating local culture.
By road:
The approximate distance between Arusha and Tarangire National Park is around 140 km, and it typically takes about three hours to drive to the park.
Tarangire National Park is widely regarded as one of the premier locations in Africa for observing large herds of elephants in close proximity. This is due not only to the presence of thousands of these majestic animals roaming the park, but also to the fact that they are not disturbed by the presence of vehicles or humans.
In addition to the park’s impressive baobab trees, another major attraction is the presence of tree-climbing pythons in the acacia woodlands. While Tarangire is also home to buffaloes, zebras, and a variety of bird species, orix are relatively scarce. Leopards, which tend to sleep in trees during the day, are rarely seen in daylight hours. From the elevated vantage point of an open-roofed safari vehicle, visitors can take in the breathtaking landscape of the savannah, which is adorned with massive baobab trees, as well as swamplands and wooded areas.
Tarangire experiences a fragmented Wet season (November to May). The end of the year is marked by light showers, also known as the ‘short rains’, while the ‘long rains’ bring heavier downpours from March to May. In the midst of these rainy periods, there is a short dry spell that provides a glimpse of what to expect in the Dry season (June to October).
