By now, you must know the sentence “Tanzania is the land of endless beauty” to be true.
The country is a constant surprise of magic and tourist attractions. One of the not talked enough spots is Tarangire.
From its towering baobab trees to lively sceneries filled with wildlife, Tarangire is a must visit.PlayThe baobab tree and trails of Tarangire
Here’s everything you need to know about this gem.
The Place
Tarangire National Park is located in northern Tanzania, about 120 km southwest of Arusha, covering roughly 2,850 square kilometers. The name Tarangire is shared by the park and the Tarangire River, which cuts through the heart of the park and serves as the main source of life; especially during the dry season.
The river is a living magnet for thousands of animals from across the region, creating one of the most concentrated wildlife viewing experiences in East Africa.
What to Expect
According to multiple sources, Tarangire National Park has the highest concentration of elephants in Tanzania making it one of the places where you can easily see these majestic giants in numbers.Play
The park also is a perfect spot for birdwatching, with around 500 bird species including kori bustard, Africa’s heaviest flying bird.
Zebras, buffaloes, impalas, elands, and antelopes are some of the animals you should expect to see at Tarangire National Park. With the absence of rhinos; a direct impact of poaching, the park is home to 4 of the big 5 animals.
Getting In
Tarangire is one of the easiest parks to access from Arusha. The park is about a 2-hour drive from Arusha, mostly on good tarmac roads.
You can also opt for air travel, there are several airstrips nearby, the main one being Kuro Airstrip, used by small charter flights connecting from Arusha, Serengeti, or Zanzibar.
Tarangire National Park has 5 gates in total, two being main gates:-
Boundary Hill: Located on the northeast border, this is the most commonly used gate, especially for visitors coming from Arusha.
Sangaiwe Gate: Situated on the western border, this gate is convenient for travelers coming from the south or west.
Other gates include
Kwa Ndege Gate
This gate is situated on the park’s southern border, making it a perfect entry point for those traveling from Lake Manyara National Park or the southern safari circuit.
Matete Gate
Located on the eastern side of Tarangire National Park. This gate provides access to more remote areas of the park, including some of the southern reaches of Tarangire.
Minjingu Gate
Located near the town of Minjingu, south of Lake Manyara. This entry point offers easy access for travelers coming from the Manyara and Karatu regions.
Seasons and Timing
Dry Season (June–October)
- Best for wildlife viewing.
- Elephants are most visible.
- Clear skies and fewer mosquitoes.
- Temperatures average 27°C (81°F) during the day, dropping to 15°C (59°F) at night.
Wet Season (November–May)
- Lush scenery and fewer crowds.
- Excellent for birdwatching and photography.
- Roads can get muddy but still navigable.
- Daytime temperatures around 28°C (82°F), nights at 16°C (61°F).
Accommodation
Accommodation is essential and at Tarangire you have quite a list to choose from, here are some of the few you may need to consider.
● Tarangire Treetops
● Sanctuary Swala Camp
● Oliver’s Camp.
● Tarangire Sopa Lodge
● Baobab Tented Camp.
Another option is public campsites near the main gate, offering an authentic bush experience under the stars.
Tarangire is not as loud or as constantly mentioned as other tourist attractions in Tanzania but the truth is, the place is equally magical. The park is quieter, more intimate, deeply authentic and definitely worthy of your time
Book your next adventure today.
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