Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park, spanning 2,850 square kilometers, was gazetted in 1970 and forms part of a much larger ecosystem of approximately 30,000 square kilometers, known as the Maasai Steppe or southern Maasailand.
For those who truly appreciate the African safari experience—expansive open spaces, Acacia savannas, diverse wildlife, sandy riverbeds, and the iconic sausage trees—Tarangire is a must-visit destination. Visitors can immerse themselves in the changing seasons, the crisp morning air, the heat of midday, and the symphony of the wilderness, from the calls of hyenas and lions to the constant birdsong.
Tourist Attractions
Wildlife
Tarangire boasts one of the highest densities of large animals during the dry season, second only to Ngorongoro Crater. Visitors can spot elephants, buffalo, zebras, wildebeest, ostriches, giraffes, elands, lions, and leopards. The animals gather around the remaining water pools along the Tarangire River and Silale Swamp.
Baobab Trees
The park is adorned with massive baobab trees, which serve as complete ecosystems. These ancient trees provide habitats for bees, small mammals like genet and civet cats, and even shelter for hunter-gatherers in the past. Their enormous flowers are pollinated by fruit bats.
Birdlife
A paradise for birdwatchers, Tarangire hosts more resident breeding bird species than any other place in Tanzania. Raptors, including the martial and bateleur eagles, as well as the small yet fierce pygmy falcon, are frequently seen soaring above the park.
Tarangire River
Fed by seasonal sand rivers from the eastern and southeastern regions of the park, the Tarangire River flows northward and empties into Lake Burunge. It connects to Silale, Gurusi, and Larmakau swamps, serving as a crucial water source for wildlife.
Tourist Activities
- Day Game Viewing – Explore the park’s diverse wildlife during the day. Visitors can witness large herds of elephants, prides of lions, and a variety of antelope species as they roam the savanna. This is the perfect activity for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
- Night Game Drives – Experience the thrill of nocturnal wildlife activity. A guided night safari allows visitors to see nocturnal animals such as civets, genets, porcupines, and bush babies, as well as predators like leopards and lions on the hunt. The park takes on a completely different ambiance under the moonlight.
- Balloon Safaris – Enjoy a breathtaking aerial view of the landscape and wildlife. A hot air balloon ride at dawn provides an unforgettable perspective of Tarangire’s vast plains, meandering river, and scattered baobabs. The safari typically ends with a bush breakfast upon landing.
- Walking Safaris – Embark on guided walks with armed rangers for an up-close experience with nature. Walking safaris provide a unique opportunity to explore the flora and fauna at a slower pace, learn about animal tracks, and encounter smaller wildlife that is often missed during game drives.
- Cultural Visits – Engage with local Maasai communities and learn about their traditions and way of life. Visitors can experience Maasai dance performances, visit traditional homesteads, and gain insights into their sustainable coexistence with wildlife.
- Bird Watching Tours – With over 550 bird species recorded, Tarangire is a birder’s paradise. Guided birdwatching excursions offer sightings of unique species such as the yellow-collared lovebird, the ashy starling, and various raptors, making it a must-do activity for bird enthusiasts.
When to Visit
Tarangire National Park is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences. The dry season (July to November) is ideal for viewing wildlife congregating around shrinking water sources, while the green season (December to May) brings lush landscapes, newborn animals, and vibrant birdlife.
Getting There
By Air: The park has an airstrip at Kuro, located in its center, with daily scheduled flights connecting it to major safari destinations in Tanzania.
By Road: Tarangire is easily accessible from Arusha, with a well-maintained road leading to the main gate. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it a convenient starting point for many safari itineraries.