Tarangire National Park:

Tarangire National Park is often the first stop on many safari itineraries. While many travelers envision the Serengeti, the lesser-known Tarangire offers a captivating introduction to the East African safari experience. Established in 1970, the park is named after the Tarangire River, which winds through it, flowing north. Upon arrival, you are greeted by ancient baobab trees, leading you into a vast landscape of savannahs, grasslands, and acacia woodlands. The scenery in Tarangire has a dreamlike quality, evoking a sense of timelessness with ecosystems that have existed for millennia. Known as “elephant paradise” and the “home of the baobabs,” Tarangire boasts one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.

Location & Getting There: Tarangire is located in the Manyara region, about a 2-hour drive from Arusha, making it ideal to arrive early for a full day’s game drive. From the park gate, it’s around 1.5 hours to Karatu. Alternatively, flights are available, with a 20-minute journey from Arusha or 45 minutes from Kilimanjaro. The park spans 2,850 square kilometers.

Wildlife: Elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, waterbucks, dik-diks, impalas, banded mongoose, Grant’s gazelles, honey badgers, vervet monkeys, olive baboons, wildebeest, zebras, and Cape buffalo.

Activities: Guided game drives through diverse landscapes, walking safaris, and night game drives available at select lodges.

Best Time to Visit: Tarangire National Park is particularly appealing in the dry season from late June to October when large numbers of animals congregate near the Tarangire River. In the south, the Silale Swamp attracts wildlife seeking food and water during this season.

Accommodations: Tarangire Safari Lodge, Tarangire Simba Lodge, Honeyguide, Lemala Mpingo Ridge, and Swala Sanctuary.