Tarangire

Vast tree savannahs, enormous baobab trees, and huge herds of elephants: Tarangire National Park is an insider tip for safari lovers. Here you can experience Africa far away from the crowds and enjoy exciting wildlife viewing along the Tarangire River, which provides life even in the dry season.

Land Cruiser in Tarangire National Park
Leopard camouflaged in a tree
Baby monkey in Tarangire National Park
The famous baobab tree
The Tarangire River is almost dry
Photographing lions from the car
elephant paradise elephant paradise
Year-round Year-round
Midrange price level Midrange price level
2 - 3 days 2 - 3 days

Tarangire National Park is one of the lesser-known treasures in northern Tanzania. It is known for its diverse landscape, which ranges from dense riverine forests to open savannahs and extensive swamps. It is precisely this diversity that ensures that animals stay here almost all year round. Tarangire is often referred to as an insider tip among safari connoisseurs because, although it is easily accessible, it is often quieter than the large parks such as the Serengeti or the Ngorongoro Crater. The name “Tarangire” comes from the river of the same name, which forms the backbone of the park.

Tarangire National Park has more to offer than just impressive wildlife. If you look closely, you will also discover ancient elephant trails that were used centuries ago and still run through the park today. Details like these make Tarangire National Park a place full of stories and, for many visitors, a place they want to return to again and again.

animals-tarangire

Animals in Tarangire National Park

With its vast tree savannahs and impressive baobab trees, Tarangire National Park offers a unique backdrop for wildlife viewing. Huge herds of elephants migrate along the Tarangire River, which provides vital water even during the dry season. In between, impalas, zebras, and giraffes graze among acacia trees and mighty baobabs.

In addition to elephants, you will encounter buffalo, kudus, warthogs, and various antelope species. Lions and leopards prowl through the tall grass, while spotted hyenas and jackals are always on the lookout for prey or carrion. Hippos can often be seen at the waterholes, and crocodiles lurk in the shallow water during the dry season. If you look closely, you will also discover a wide variety of birds in Tarangire.

Highlights

  • 01

    Paradise for elephants

    During the dry season, Tarangire is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Tanzania. Herds of up to 300 animals gather at the Tarangire River, offering spectacular viewing opportunities.

  • 02

    Land of the Baobabs

    No other park in northern Tanzania is home to so many mighty baobab trees. These trees store water in their trunks, whose bark is peeled by elephants during dry periods to access the moist fibers.

  • 03

    Seasonal animal migrations

    As the rainy and dry seasons alternate, thousands of animals migrate between Tarangire and the surrounding areas. Especially during the dry season, wild animals gather at the river and in the swamps.

  • 04

    Secret cats

    In addition to lions and leopards, the rare caracal also lives in Tarangire. Although rarely seen, its presence has been confirmed, especially in the bushy areas south of the Tarangire River.

Activities

Game drive

Discover herds of elephants, baobab trees, and many antelopes by car.

Game drive

Balloon Safari

Experience the savannah from the air in a hot air balloon.

Hot Air Balloon Safari in Tarangire

Walking Safari

Walking with a guide – close to nature.

Walking Safari in Tarangire

Bird watching

Over 550 species await, including kingfishers and great bustards.

Vultures on a tree

Getting there

By car

By car

Tarangire National Park is located about 2 to 3 hours south of Arusha and is easily accessible via paved roads.

By plane

By plane

The park has its own airstrip, which can be reached in approximately 30–45 minutes by plane from Arusha.

Are you ready for your adventure?

Whether you want to climb Kilimanjaro, get to know the Maasai and their culture, or float over the savannah in a hot air balloon, you'll find everything you need here!

Browse our trips!

We use cookies to optimally display and continuously improve our website. With the Use of this website you agree to our Privacy policy.