Can You Feel the Call of Adventure and the Great Outdoors?
Design a tour that fits your style. Click to begin
Dream Trails Expeditions
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is home to the largest concentration of wildlife outside the Serengeti ecosystem during the dry season. The park becomes a wildlife paradise as animals gather around the Tarangire River, the park's primary water source.
Description
Tarangire National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is renowned for its large elephant herds, iconic baobab trees, and diverse wildlife. The park covers approximately 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles) and is named after the Tarangire River, which is a crucial water source for animals during the dry season.
Wild Life
Elephants: Tarangire is famous for its large elephant population. Herds of up to 300 elephants can be seen migrating to the Tarangire River.
Big Cats: Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are present in the park, often seen hunting or resting in the shade.
Other Mammals: The park is home to giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, impalas, and elands. It's also a good place to spot the lesser kudu, gerenuk, and oryx.
Birdlife: With over 550 bird species recorded, Tarangire is a paradise for bird watchers. Notable species include the yellow-collared lovebird, rufous-tailed weaver, and ashy starling.
Vegetation
Baobab Trees: These iconic trees, known as the "upside-down trees," are a striking feature of Tarangire's landscape. They provide shelter and food for various animals.
Acacia Woodlands: These woodlands offer habitat for many species and are interspersed with open grasslands.
Swamps: Permanent swamps in the park support a variety of waterbirds and act as a refuge for animals during the dry season.
Key Areas within the Park
Tarangire River: The lifeline of the park, the river attracts a multitude of animals, especially during the dry season. Game drives along the river are particularly rewarding.
Silale Swamp: A year-round swamp that provides water and lush vegetation for wildlife. It's a good area for birdwatching and spotting elephants and other animals.
Northern Section: More frequented by visitors, this area has good wildlife viewing opportunities and several lodges and campsites.
Southern Section: Less visited and more remote, offering a more secluded safari experience with diverse habitats and wildlife.
Activities
Game Drives: The most common way to explore the park, offering excellent opportunities to see a variety of wildlife.
Walking Safaris: Guided walking safaris provide a chance to explore the park on foot, getting closer to nature and learning about smaller flora and fauna.
Night Drives: Some lodges offer night drives, giving visitors a chance to see nocturnal animals like aardvarks, porcupines, and leopards.
Bird Watching: With its rich avian diversity, Tarangire is ideal for bird enthusiasts. Guided birding tours can enhance the experience.
Cultural Visits: Visits to nearby Maasai and Datoga villages offer insights into local cultures and traditions.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (June to October) This is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around the Tarangire River and other water sources. The weather is also more pleasant, with less rain.
Wet Season (November to May) The landscape becomes lush and green, and many animals disperse throughout the park. It's a good time for birdwatching and seeing newborn animals, but some areas may be harder to access due to rains.
Conservation
Wildlife Corridors: Efforts are made to maintain wildlife corridors connecting Tarangire to other protected areas, ensuring the migration routes of animals are preserved.
Community Involvement: Conservation initiatives often involve local communities, promoting sustainable practices and reducing human-wildlife conflict.
Accommodation
Lodges and Camps: The park offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget campsites, all providing unique experiences and varying levels of comfort.
Seasonal Camps: These camps are set up during peak seasons and offer a more intimate and immersive safari experience.
Tarangire National Park offers a diverse and rich safari experience, characterized by its impressive elephant herds, unique baobab-studded landscapes, and abundant wildlife. It is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Tanzania's northern safari circuit.
