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 covers 1,615 square miles of diverse terrain and ecosystems.

History

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

Entrance Fees & Permits

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

Hours of Operation

The gates of Tarangire National Park are open daily from 6:30am to 6:30pm.

How to Get There

By Road

The park is approximately 87 miles from Arusha, and the drive takes around two hours on well-maintained roads.

By Air

Guests can fly to the nearby Lake Manyara Airport and then drive about two hours to reach Tarangire. However, since the total travel time is similar, driving directly from Arusha is often the most convenient option.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

The climate in Tarangire is generally mild, with temperatures staying moderate throughout the year. During the dry season (June to September), daytime temperatures hover around 79°F, with cooler nights dropping to the mid-50s. In the wet, warmer months from December to February, days can reach 82°F with mild evenings around 62°F. Game viewing is most rewarding during the dry months.

Avoiding Crowds

Peak tourism occurs from June to September. For a quieter experience, consider visiting between mid-October and early December during the short rains. Bird watchers will enjoy visiting in January and February, when birdlife is abundant due to lush vegetation.

Value for Money

Just two hours from Arusha, Tarangire offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from USD 400 to USD 1300 per person per night sharing. Guests can enjoy one to three nights in the park, making it a great value-for-money destination within the northern circuit.

Wildlife and Landscapes

Popular Wildlife Sightings

Tarangire National Park is renowned for having one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania. It is also home to the iconic “Big Five”—lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant. The Tarangire River attracts a wide variety of wildlife, making it a hotspot for predator sightings and exciting game drives.

The Terrain

Famous for its ancient baobab trees, the park’s landscape includes wooded savannah, swamps, and valleys along the Tarangire River. These swamps attract snakes and a wide variety of bird species, enhancing the park’s biodiversity.

Experiences

Game Drives

Guided game drives are conducted in open or enclosed 4×4 safari vehicles, typically offered during the early morning or late afternoon for optimal wildlife viewing.

Guided Walking Safaris

Expert guides lead guests on walking safaris to explore Tarangire’s rich ecosystems on foot. These safaris offer close encounters with flora, smaller fauna, and views of larger animals in the distance.

Explore Tarangire National Park with Adventure In The Wild Safaris and enjoy an unforgettable journey into one of Tanzania’s most scenic and wildlife-rich landscapes.