Tarangire National Park, a hidden gem in northern Tanzania, is a sanctuary for elephant migration, birding enthusiasts, and those seeking an authentic safari experience. Unlike its more famous counterparts, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire offers a unique spectacle from July through October, with a rich concentration of wildlife and a fraction of the visitor numbers found in other Northern parks.
Spanning an area approximately ten times larger than the nearby Manyara NP, Tarangire National Park offers a vast game viewing area. During the peak months, the park transforms into a haven of tranquility, providing exceptional safaris in a spacious environment unique to Tarangire. Lodges such as Swala and Oliver’s Camp offer a chance to explore the remote southern area, away from the hustle and bustle of other travelers.
Overall, Tarangire National Park offers excellent value and a peaceful escape from the more popular parks in the region. Tarangire is a superb option if you’re an expert seeking a quieter and distinctive game-viewing experience focusing on elephants.
Tarangire National Park safari – The Wildlife
During the dry seasons, the Tarangire River area hosts a diverse and dependable wildlife concentration comparable to the Ngorongoro Crater. However, the local migration pattern balances the ecosystem, affecting the presence of game in and around the park. Consequently, Tarangire exhibits exceptional wildlife sightings during the peak season but may need more allure throughout the rest of the year. Notably, the park draws attention to its substantial elephant population, reaching up to 3,000 during peak months. Furthermore, the peak season welcomes many wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, giraffe, Thompson’s gazelle, greater and lesser kudu, and eland, as well as sightings of leopard and cheetah. Moreover, the park boasts sightings of rare species such as dwarf mongoose, oryx, and gerenuk. Notably, Tarangire is renowned as one of Tanzania’s premier birding destinations.
Tarangire National Park – Activities
Tarangire National Park primarily offers safaris as its main activity. Staying outside the park allows for walking and night safaris. While boat safaris on the rivers are unavailable, Oliver’s Camp provides opportunities for adventurous fly camping trips and excellent walking safaris. It is important to note that the regulations regarding safaris in the park are subject to change annually. Contact us directly for specific details, as the policies may vary.
Tarangire – When to go
The game-viewing experience from July through October is genuinely extraordinary. However, for the rest of the year, most of the game migrates out of the park, onto the floor of the Rift Valley, and to the grazing grounds of the Masai steppe. As a result, we recommend visitors avoid high concentrations of games during the off-season months. Nevertheless, we still recommend traveling here for those seeking to avoid the crowds.
A private day excursion to Tarangire National Park departing from Arusha City at 08:00 hours.
Price Including VAT:
– $435 for one person
– $265 per person for 2 to 3 people
– $185 per person for 4 to 6 people
The trip starts and ends in Arusha, Tanzania’s Tourism Capital.
Inclusive:
– Transportation in a well-maintained 4WD safari Land Cruiser with a photographic roof hatch
– Services of a professional and experienced English-speaking local safari driver guide
– Packed lunch
– Mineral water (1.5 liters per day per person)
– All park fees, including VAT
Excluded:
– Alcoholic and soft drinks
– Visa fees
– Tips/gratuity for the safari driver guide
– All personal nature items
– Travel insurance, etc.
