Tarangire National Park – In our mission to reveal the beauty hidden in nature, we encourage exploration of the quietest parts of the world, where food for the eyes and soothing sounds for the ears await.
Here, we unveil some of the world’s most gifted conservation areas, offering premier safari experiences with safety, relaxation, and fun.
Now is the time to discover a true treasure in Africa, famous for its large concentration of African elephants, peaceful atmosphere, and cool climate: Tarangire National Park—the sixth largest national park in Tanzania.
The park’s name originates from the mighty Tarangire River that flows through its stunning landscape.
Originally, Tarangire National Park was open for cultivation and hunting. In 1957, however, it was designated a game reserve to protect rare tree species and other wildlife.
By 1970, the authorities elevated it to national park status due to its rich biodiversity.
Located in the Manyara region, south of Lake Manyara in northern Tanzania, Tarangire National Park covers an area of approximately 2,850 square kilometers and lies about 118 kilometers from Arusha city.
Nearby, you’ll also find Mount Kilimanjaro (the world’s tallest stand-alone mountain), Serengeti National Park (renowned for the wildebeest migration), Lake Manyara National Park (home to rare tree-climbing lions), and Ngorongoro Crater (containing the world’s largest caldera).
Though these neighboring attractions draw many visitors, Tarangire’s large concentration of African elephants, grassy plains, and colossal baobabs set it apart.
Visitors to this park return with lasting memories and exceptional experiences.
To access the park, the main gate is located in the north, with the Sangaiwe Gate on the western side, a 40-minute drive from the Babati-Makuyuni highway.
The latter is often used by visitors coming from Babati in the west or south.
Activities in Tarangire National Park
The park offers more than just game viewing. Visitors can stroll through the savanna, studying the smaller animals, primates, and unique plant species.
There’s also the chance for an aerial view of the breathtaking landscape and rare mammals via a hot-air balloon ride.
Additionally, Tarangire hosts two major animal migrations: the annual wildebeest migration, which begins in Tanzania and peaks at the Mara River in Kenya, and the great elephant migration.
Park Entry Fees
Entry fees vary based on age and country of origin. Here’s a breakdown:
- Persons aged 16 and above: East African citizens pay 10,000 Tshs, non-East African citizens pay 45 USD, and expatriates living in Tanzania pay 22.5 USD.
- Children aged 5 to 15 years: East African citizens pay 2,000 Tshs, non-East African citizens pay 15 USD, and expatriates pay 7.5 USD.
- Children under 5 years: Free entry.
These fees apply per person for a 24-hour period.
Attractions in the Park
- Animals: Tarangire National Park is home to over 58 rare large mammal species, with a high concentration of African elephants, the park’s primary highlight. Other animals include zebras, cape buffaloes, impalas, gazelles, wildebeests, Coke’s hartebeest, hyenas, leopards, African wild dogs, lions, various antelope species, giraffes, mongoose, waterbucks, warthogs, dik-diks, vervet monkeys, elands, olive baboons, greater kudu, and honey badgers. During the dry season, many animals migrate to the park’s various water sources, including the Tarangire River.
- Birdlife: Tarangire is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 550 bird species recorded, both endemic and non-endemic. Birds like the world’s largest bird, the stocking-thigh ostrich, hornbills, and the Kori bustard inhabit the drier areas. Other species include the Ashy starling, yellow-collared lovebird, Rufous-tailed Weaver, crested francolin, hammerkops, bateleur eagle, white pelicans, and white-headed babbler.
- Lemiyon Triangle: This triangular-shaped area in the park’s northern region is famous for its magnificent baobab trees and a wide range of bird species, such as the red-billed quail birds.
- Giant Baobab Trees (Adansonia digitata): Known as the “tree of life,” these colossal trees occupy half of the park’s land area. They have thick, root-like branches and sturdy trunks, making them a true symbol of Africa. Local tradition holds that an unhappy deity planted these trees upside down. The baobabs are enormous, reaching heights of up to 30 meters, with some trunks measuring up to 11 meters in diameter. They are thought to be over 1,000 years old, with some baobabs in South Africa recorded at 6,000 years old. The leaves are edible and used to treat skin infections, while the fruits provide Vitamin C and carbohydrates. The dried pulp is even used in beer fermentation.
- Tarangire River: Crossing the park, this river significantly boosts the park’s ecosystem, especially during the dry season (June to late October), attracting herds of elephants, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, and waterbucks to its shores.
- Burungi Circuit: Stretching about 50 miles along the park’s western corridor, the Burungi Circuit is known for its eland concentration and captivating landscapes.
- Kitibong Hill and Matete Woodlands: Kitibong Hill is known for wild dogs and buffaloes, while the woodlands are home to leopards and the rare Oryx antelope. Game viewing is popular in these areas due to the diverse wildlife.
Other Attractions
- Maasai Cultural Community: A visit to Tarangire is enriched by exploring the Maasai community, an authentic group that has preserved its cultural heritage for generations. The Maasai are herdsmen who rely on cattle for milk, blood, and hides.
Exploring different regions of the park is possible through night and day game drives, hot air balloon safaris, birding safaris, guided nature walks, and cultural encounters.
Visitors can enjoy these activities during their visit, whether it’s a honeymoon, family retreat, wildlife safari, or research trip.
The Maasai dress code, music, social structure, and traditional meals make the experience unforgettable.
Accommodation in Tarangire National Park
Set in quiet parts of the park, accommodations cater to various preferences and budgets, from budget to luxury lodges and campsites.
Recommended options include Nimali Tarangire Tented Camp, Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp, Sanctuary Swala Camp, Lemala Mpingo Ridge Lodge, Eco Science Center and Luxury Lodge, Tarangire Safari Lodge, Tarangire Sopa Lodge, and Ang’ata Tarangire Camp.
Best Time to Visit Tarangire National Park
The weather plays a major role in planning a visit. August to October is cooler, while late December to March is hot. Long rains occur from April to June, with shorter rains from November to December.
We recommend visiting between late June and October or from December to March. Budget travelers may prefer the low season for discounts on activities and services.
The best way to appreciate Mother Nature is by experiencing it. Tarangire National Park offers abundant wildlife and scenery.
Though lesser-known, it’s a hidden gem we now reveal to you. Take a step into the unrivaled beauty of Tarangire National Park in northern Tanzania.
