Tarangire National Park is named after the river that flows through it, the only permanent water in the region during the dry season. From June to October, herds of elephant — sometimes several hundred together — gather along its banks, alongside buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe and their predators.
The landscape is dotted with enormous baobab trees, some over a thousand years old, and the park is excellent for birdwatching, with more than 550 species recorded. It is usually the first or last stop on a Northern Circuit safari, just two hours from Arusha.
Highlights
- Large elephant herds along the river
- Ancient baobab trees
- Tree-climbing pythons and lions
- Over 550 bird species
Wildlife & what you'll see
- Elephant
- Lion and leopard
- Fringe-eared oryx and lesser kudu
- Yellow-collared lovebird
Things to do
- Game drives
- Walking safaris (outside the park)
- Night drives in adjoining conservancies
Best time to visit
June to October, when the river attracts large herds. The green season is excellent for birdlife.
Getting there
About 2 hours by road from Arusha, or fly to Kuro airstrip.
Experiences in Tarangire
FAQs about Tarangire
Is Tarangire worth visiting?
Absolutely, especially from June to October. Its elephant herds and baobabs make it very different from the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
