Step into the wild soul of Tanzania with a visit to Tarangire National Park, a hidden gem often overlooked but unforgettable to those who visit. Known for its giant elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and seasonal migration, Tarangire is a place where the rhythm of Africa still beats strong.
Located just two hours from Arusha, this park is a perfect first stop on a northern circuit safari — and one of the best places in East Africa to truly get off the beaten path.
Tarangire is often called “Tanzania’s best-kept secret” — and for good reason. This vast ecosystem covers around 2,850 km² (1,100 sq mi) and is named after the life-giving Tarangire River that cuts through the park, attracting wildlife in droves during the dry season.
The park is famous for hosting the largest elephant population in northern Tanzania, with herds often numbering over 100 individuals. Add to that the striking baobab trees, open savannahs, woodlands, and seasonal swamps, and you have one of the most diverse landscapes in the region.
Game Drives – Full-day or half-day safaris to explore the river valleys and woodlands
Sunset Game Viewing – Evening light makes for stunning photos
Walking Safaris (select lodges) – Get closer to nature on foot with an armed ranger
Cultural Visits – Meet Maasai or Datoga tribes in nearby communities
Bird Watching – Year-round paradise for twitchers
Getting to Tarangire is quick and easy — perfect for the start of a Tanzania safari.
From Arusha: ~2 hours (120 km) by road
From Lake Manyara: ~1.5 hours
From Ngorongoro Crater: ~3 hours
From Serengeti (Central): ~6 hours (via Karatu)
By Air: Flights land at Kuro Airstrip, ~15–20 minutes from major camps
Tarangire offers a great mix of mid-range and luxury lodges, many with river views or nestled under baobab trees.
Tarangire Treetops by Elewana – Elevated rooms in the treetops with magical views
Lemala Mpingo Ridge – Stylish hilltop retreat with infinity pool and spa
Sanctuary Swala Camp – Remote, intimate, and elegant
Baobab Tented Camp – Comfortable and affordable with close wildlife access
Tarangire Simba Lodge – Eco-luxury next to the park border with waterhole views
Sangaiwe Tented Lodge – Great value and spectacular views of Lake Burunge
The dry season (June to October) is hands-down the best time for wildlife sightings. During this time, the Tarangire River becomes a lifeline, drawing huge numbers of animals for unforgettable game viewing.
June–October: Peak season for elephants, predators, and large herds
November–March: Beautiful green landscapes, baby animals, and fewer crowds
April–May: Rainy season — some lodges close, but birding is fantastic
Absolutely — especially if you:
Love elephants and want to see big herds up close
Are starting your safari in Arusha and want a soft, scenic introduction
Enjoy off-the-beaten-path locations without the Serengeti crowds
Are a birder or photographer — this park is heaven for both!
Combine Tarangire with:
Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro on a 4–5 day short safari
A full Northern Tanzania circuit including Serengeti and Zanzibar
Lions, including tree-climbing lions
Leopards, often seen along riverbanks
Zebras, wildebeest, impalas, elands
Buffaloes, warthogs, giraffes, baboons
Over 550 bird species, including hornbills, lovebirds, and the yellow-collared lovebird
Gerenuk and fringe-eared oryx
Rare African wild dogs (occasionally)
Tarangire has the highest density of elephants in all of Tanzania during the dry season
The baobab trees, some over 1,000 years old, serve as water storage and shelter for wildlife
It’s one of the best bird-watching destinations in Africa
Known for its seasonal mini-migration – animals move here from the Maasai Steppe when other areas dry out
Tarangire was once part of ancient elephant migration routes stretching into Kenya
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