Tarangire National Park

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Home / Destinations / Tarangire National Park – Elephant Paradise

The Land of Giants

Just a few hours from Arusha, Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephant herds, striking baobab trees, and off-the-beaten-path feel. It’s one of the best-kept secrets of the Northern Circuit and a haven for those who love raw landscapes and fewer crowds.

Why Tarangire Stands Out

Tarangire is a hidden gem that offers a quieter, more unique safari experience. With giant elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and diverse wildlife, it’s a park that truly stands out from the rest. Here’s what makes Tarangire special:

  • Home to some of Africa’s largest elephant herds
  • Iconic baobab trees
  • Seasonal swamps attract wildlife not found in other parks
  • Less crowded than Serengeti or Ngorongoro

Top Things to Do

Tarangire isn’t just about stunning landscapes—it’s full of exciting ways to explore the wild. From classic game drives to night safaris and walking adventures, here are the top things to do in the park:

1. Game Drives

See elephants up close, lions hunting in the grasslands, and thousands of wildebeests and zebras.

2. Birdwatching

With 550+ bird species, Tarangire is a birding hotspot—especially in the swamps.

3. Night Game Drives (at private concessions)

Spot leopards, genets, and bush babies under the stars.

4. Walking Safaris

Offered at certain camps—get closer to nature with expert guides.

Wildlife Highlights

  • Elephants, Lions, Zebras, Giraffes, Buffalos
  • Wildebeests, Elands, Oryx, Warthogs
  • Rare species: Fringe-eared oryx, African wild dogs
  • Over 550 bird species

Getting There

Getting to Tarangire is easy and part of the adventure. Whether you drive from nearby towns or fly in, it’s a popular stop on the Northern Safari Circuit. Therefore, You can reach Tarangire through the following ways.

  • 3 hours drive from Arusha
  • Also reachable via charter flight

Where to Stay

The Tarangire National Park has many places to stay, from budget camps to luxury lodges. You can choose to stay in areas for easy game drives or other preferred locations. 

  • Luxury: Tarangire Treetops, Chem Chem Lodge
  • Mid-range: Tarangire Safari Lodge, Sangaiwe Tented Camp
  • Budget: Campsites near the park gate

The Bottomline

Tarangire is a hidden gem that surprises many travelers. If you love elephants, unique landscapes, and fewer tourists, this park will become a highlight of your Tanzanian safari.

 

Popular Questions

what is Tarangire national park famous for?

Tarangire National Park is famous for its large population of elephants, often seen in big herds. The park is also known for its giant baobab trees that dot the landscape. During the dry season, thousands of animals gather around the Tarangire River, making it one of the best wildlife viewing areas in Tanzania. It’s especially popular for sightings of rare species like the fringe-eared oryx and the long-necked gerenuk. Birdwatchers also love Tarangire, as it hosts over 500 bird species.

Tarangire National Park covers an area of approximately 2,850 square kilometers. It is the sixth largest national park in Tanzania. The park lies in the Manyara Region, about 2 hours’ drive southwest of Arusha. Its size allows for a wide range of habitats, including riverine areas, swamps, savannahs, and woodlands. This large area supports a high density of wildlife, especially during the dry season.

In Tarangire National Park, you can see some of the largest herds of elephants in Tanzania, often gathering in impressive numbers. The park is also famous for its ancient and massive baobab trees, which create a dramatic landscape. During the dry season, the Tarangire River becomes a magnet for wildlife, attracting zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and antelopes. Predators like lions and leopards can also be spotted, along with rarer species such as the fringe-eared oryx and gerenuk. Bird lovers will enjoy spotting a wide variety of birds, as the park is home to over 500 bird species.

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