Tarangire National Park

Location

The Tarangire National Park is located near the Great Rift Valley, close to the Masai Steppe in Tanzania’s north, forming part of the country’s northern safari circuit.

Size

The Tarangire National Park spans 1,615 square miles.

History

Established as a game reserve in 1957, the Tarangire National Park was named after the Tarangire River that winds its way through the landscape. It was officially declared a National Park in 1970.

Entrance Fees & Permits

The entrance fee for Tarangire National Park is USD 53 per person. Proof of identification is required upon entry.

Hours of Operation

The park gates are open daily from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM.

How to Get There

By Road

The drive from Arusha to Tarangire National Park covers approximately 87 miles and takes about two hours on well-maintained roads.

By Air

Guests can fly into the nearby Lake Manyara airport followed by a two-hour drive to Tarangire. However, the total travel time is similar to a direct road trip from Arusha, which is generally recommended.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Tarangire experiences moderate temperatures year-round. During the dry winter season (June to September), daytime temperatures average around 79°F, with nights dropping to the mid-50s°F. In the wet season (December to February), daytime highs reach about 82°F and evenings remain mild at 62°F. Game viewing is best during the dry months.

Avoiding Crowds

Tarangire is busiest from June to September. For a quieter experience, consider visiting from mid-October to early December during the short rain season. Birdwatchers may prefer January and February when lush conditions attract a variety of species.

Value for Money

Just a comfortable two-hour drive from Arusha, Tarangire offers a range of accommodation options from USD 400 to USD 1300 per person sharing per night. Stays of one to three nights provide great value for a memorable safari experience.

Wildlife and Landscape

Popular Wildlife Sightings

Tarangire is famous for its large elephant population and is home to the “Big Five.” Sightings of lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant are all possible. The Tarangire River attracts numerous predators, increasing the likelihood of spotting your favorites during game drives.

The Terrain

Characterized by iconic baobab trees, Tarangire is a scenic mix of swamps, wooded areas, and valleys surrounding the meandering Tarangire River. The swamps are habitats for various snakes and abundant birdlife.

Experiences

Game Drives

Game drives in Tarangire are conducted by qualified guides in enclosed or open 4×4 safari vehicles, typically scheduled for early mornings or late afternoons.

Guided Walking Safaris

Guests can explore the park on foot with a qualified guide, observing flora, fauna, and possibly spotting plains game and distant predators.

Discover the wilderness of Tarangire National Park with Adventure In The Wild Safaris — your expert guide to Tanzania’s natural treasures.