Tarangire is often the first park on a northern Tanzania safari, and many guests leave surprised by how much they liked it. It is known for large elephant herds, giant baobab trees and a quieter feel than the Serengeti. It is also only a short drive from Arusha.
Tarangire at a glance
| Size | about 2,850 km² |
| Distance from Arusha | about 2–3 hours by road |
| Best known for | Elephants, baobabs, birdlife |
| Best time | June to October |
| Recommended stay | 1–2 nights |
Why Tarangire is worth your time
In the dry season, the Tarangire River is the main source of water for a large area. Animals move in from the surrounding plains, and the park fills with elephants, zebras, wildebeest and buffalo. Elephant herds of dozens are common, and sightings of hundreds in a day are possible from August to October.
The landscape is different from anywhere else in the north: rolling hills, riverine woodland, swamps and baobab trees that can be many centuries old.
Wildlife in Tarangire
- Elephants: the park’s main attraction.
- Predators: lions, leopards and cheetahs, although sightings are less predictable than in the Serengeti.
- Dry-country species: fringe-eared oryx, lesser kudu and gerenuk in some areas.
- Tree-climbing pythons and lions resting in trees are occasionally seen.
- Birds: more than 500 species, including yellow-collared lovebirds, hornbills and kori bustards.
Main areas
Tarangire River
The heart of the park in the dry season. Most wildlife is along the river and its banks.
Silale Swamp
Green all year, drawing elephants, buffalo and predators. Good for birdlife.
The south
Remote and quiet, with fewer vehicles. Better for guests staying two nights or more.
Best time to visit
| Months | What to expect |
|---|---|
| June–October | Peak wildlife along the river, dry and dusty |
| November–December | Animals start to disperse, landscape turns green |
| January–March | Green, good for birds, fewer large herds |
| April–May | Long rains, lowest prices, some roads muddy |
For more on seasons, read our guide to the best time for a safari in Tanzania.
Tsetse flies
Parts of Tarangire have tsetse flies, especially in wooded areas. Bites are painful but rarely serious in this area. Wear light, neutral colours, since tsetse flies are drawn to dark blue and black, and use repellent. Our packing list covers what to wear.
Where to stay
There are lodges and tented camps inside the park and in the surrounding areas. Staying inside the park means you can be at the river early, when animals come to drink. Camps just outside often offer walking safaris and night drives, which are not allowed inside the national park.
How Tarangire fits into your safari
Most northern circuits start with Tarangire, then continue to Lake Manyara or the Ngorongoro Crater, then the Serengeti. It is also a good last stop before flying home, since it is close to Kilimanjaro Airport.
Our Northern Loop starts here. For families, the Family Northern Safari uses Tarangire as a relaxed first park before longer drives.
Frequently asked questions
Large elephant herds, especially in the dry season, and its many baobab trees. It is also excellent for birds.
About two to three hours by road, which makes it an easy first or last stop on a northern safari.
Yes, in some wooded areas. Wear light, neutral colours and avoid dark blue and black, which attract them.
