6th Largest National Park

Tarangire National Park

Discover the Kingdom of Elephants and ancient Baobab trees. Home to massive elephant herds of up to 300 individuals and iconic ancient baobab trees that can live for hundreds of years. Experience Tanzania's most diverse wildlife sanctuary.

Ancient Baobabs
Massive Elephant Herds
2,850 sq km
550+ Bird Species

Tarangire Overview

Tarangire National Park received its name from the Tarangire River that flows through the northern portion of the park. The 6th largest National Park in Tanzania covers 2,850 square kilometers and is renowned for its extraordinary game viewing opportunities, enormous herds of elephants, and ancient baobab trees - truly the "tree of life."

Size

2,850 sq km
6th Largest in Tanzania

Elephant Paradise

Herds up to 300
Gentle Giants

Ancient Baobabs

1000+ Years Old
Tree of Life

Birdlife

550+ Species
Birdwatcher's Paradise

Why Visit Tarangire National Park?

Kingdom of Elephants: Witness massive elephant herds of up to 300 individuals - one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Tanzania. Watch these gentle giants bathing in mud and socializing around water sources.

Ancient Baobab Trees: Marvel at the iconic "trees of life" - some over 1000 years old with trunks that can retain up to 300 liters of water and grow to 100 feet in circumference.

  • Highest density of elephants in Northern Tanzania
  • Ancient baobab trees over 1000 years old
  • Over 550 bird species including endemic species
  • Diverse ecosystems from grasslands to swamps
  • Tree-climbing lions and frequent big cat sightings
  • Tarangire River - lifeline during dry season
  • Giant red termite mounds twice human size
  • Walking safaris permitted in select areas
  • Cultural tours to Maasai communities
  • Mini wildebeest migration patterns
Tarangire Highlights
300+ Elephant Herds
Ancient Baobab Trees
Tarangire River Lifeline
650 Lions in Park
Giant Termite Mounds
Walking Safari Experiences

Explore Tarangire Safari Areas

Tarangire National Park offers diverse ecosystems and remarkable wildlife concentrations across distinct safari regions, each providing unique experiences and spectacular game viewing opportunities.

Tarangire River - The Park's Lifeline

The great Tarangire River flows through the park and serves as the lifeline for wildlife, especially during the dry season from July through October. This permanent water source attracts diverse animals from far-off places.

Wildlife Concentrations: During dry season, massive herds of zebras, wildebeests, impalas, gazelles, giraffes, buffalo, hartebeests, and herds of elephants come to cool off. Predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs are drawn to the riverfront.

Permanent Water Source
Best Game Viewing
Best For: Elephant herds, predator sightings, and diverse bird species including local and migratory birds.

Silale Swamp - The Remote Giant Sponge

The distant Silale swamp is a distinct feature of Tarangire's varied ecosystem. During wet season, it soaks up water like a big sponge and slowly releases it during dry season, acting as a crucial water source for wildlife.

Wildlife Haven: This wetland attracts huge herds of herbivores including cape buffaloes and elephants, which in turn draws predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs. Bird species include Donaldson-nightjar and Smith's vulturine guinea.

Natural Sponge
Wildlife Magnet
Remote Location
Ecosystem Role: Critical water storage system supporting diverse wildlife during dry seasons.

Lemiyon Triangle - Photographic Paradise

Located in the northernmost part of Tarangire, bordered by Burunge circuit, Lake Burunge, and Tarangire River. This triangular zone features huge baobab trees, diverse acacia species, mahogany trees, and toothbrush bushes.

Raptor Paradise: Excellent raptor viewing including tawny eagles, martial eagles, long-crested eagles, fish eagles, and bateleur eagles. Zebras and wildebeests graze across this pristine landscape.

Triangular Zone
Raptor Viewing
Photography Spot
Photography Focus: Stunning landscapes with baobab backdrops and diverse bird of prey species.

Matete Woodlands - Riverine Hills

The northwest region features Matete Woodlands and the Matete Bridge (Engelhard Bridge), named after the patron family who helped preserve the park. This unique landscape consists of tall elephant grass and acacia woodlands.

Wildlife Habitat: Towering baobab trees provide habitat for numerous animals and birds. Vervet monkeys and baboons are common, while lions are the major predators inhabiting the woodland areas.

Historic Engelhard Bridge
Lion Territory
Woodland Features: Tall elephant grass, acacia woodlands, and towering baobab trees creating perfect wildlife habitat.

Kitibong Hill - Remote Safari Experience

The Kitibong region surrounds Kitibong Hill in a fully remote part of Tarangire. The enticing landscape features acacia parkland in the eastern territory and Dalbergia woodland in the western area.

Remote Wilderness: This area offers the most exclusive safari experience in Tarangire, with minimal tourist traffic and pristine wilderness conditions. Perfect for those seeking authentic, undisturbed wildlife encounters.

Remote Location
Acacia Parkland
Pristine Wilderness
Exclusive Experience: Minimal crowds and authentic wildlife encounters in untouched wilderness.

Tarangire Wildlife & Attractions

Home to extraordinary concentrations of wildlife and unique natural attractions that make Tarangire one of Tanzania's most spectacular safari destinations.

Wildlife Highlights

Elephants: Massive herds of up to 300 individuals - highest density in Northern Tanzania. Watch them dig dry riverbeds for underground water.

Lions: About 650 lions throughout the park, often seen relaxing atop sausage and acacia trees.

Leopards: Frequently spotted in acacia trees, especially around the Tarangire River area.

Cheetahs: Found on the open plains, particularly around Kamuyo Hills area.

Rare Species: Gerenuks and fringe-eared oryxes - among the few places in Tanzania to see these antelopes.

Ancient Baobab Trees

Trees of Life: Massive baobab trees that can live for hundreds of years, with some over 1000 years old.

Water Storage: Trunks can retain up to 300 liters of water and grow to 100 feet in circumference.

Wildlife Support: Produce nutrient-rich fruit during dry season, supporting birds and animals when everything else is barren.

Elephant Technique: Elephants have special techniques to draw water from baobab trees during dry season.

Unique Attractions & Features

Red Termite Mounds: Huge mounds twice human size spread throughout landscapes
Poacher's Hide: Hollow baobab tree once used by poachers, now a unique attraction
Mini Migration: Seasonal wildlife movements within the ecosystem
Birdlife: 550+ species including endemic and migratory birds
Kigelia Trees: Sausage trees with thick canopies favored by big cats
Lake Burunge: Perfect for migratory bird watching and wildlife sightings

Exceptional Birdlife

Birdwatcher's Paradise: Over 550 bird species including endemic and near-endemic species like Ashy Starling and Rufous-tailed weaver.

Seasonal Highlights: November to April brings North African and European migratory birds for spectacular birdwatching.

Diverse Habitats: Acacia trees provide excellent nesting sites with long thorns offering great foundations for nest building.

Seasonal Migration

Mini Mass Migration: During dry season, large herds migrate toward limited water sources within the park.

Wildlife Concentrations: Common to see herds of elephants, wildebeests, gazelles, zebras, hartebeests, and their predators.

Tarangire River: Continues to be lifeline during dry spell, attracting animals from vast distances.

Tarangire Safari Activities

Experience the Kingdom of Elephants through diverse safari activities designed to showcase Tarangire's incredible wildlife, ancient baobabs, and diverse ecosystems.

Game Drives

Morning and evening game drives through diverse habitats. Witness massive elephant herds, tree-climbing lions, and spectacular sunsets among ancient baobab trees.

Guided Nature Walks

Explore the park on foot with armed rangers. Experience authentic safari adventures and learn about smaller wildlife, plants, and ecosystems up close.

Birdwatching Safaris

Discover over 550 bird species including endemic and migratory birds. Best during wet season with specialized guides and equipment provided.

Cultural Tours

Visit Maasai villages and learn about traditional pastoralist lifestyle. Experience cultural dances, visit traditional bomas, and support local communities.

Photographic Safaris

Capture stunning wildlife and landscapes with perfect backdrops of ancient baobab trees. Specialized photography tours with optimal timing and locations.

Baobab Tree Tours

Explore ancient baobab groves and learn about these "trees of life." Visit the famous Poacher's Hide baobab with its hollow interior chamber.

Best Time to Visit Tarangire

Dry Season (June - October)

  • Animals concentrate around water sources for easy viewing
  • Shorter vegetation makes wildlife spotting convenient
  • Perfect weather with sunny cloudless skies
  • Elephants dig dry riverbeds for underground water
  • Fewer mosquitoes and lower malaria risk
  • Peak season for guaranteed wildlife sightings

Wet Season (November - May)

  • Excellent birdwatching with 500+ migratory species
  • Lush green landscapes and vibrant photography opportunities
  • Fewer crowds and discounted accommodation rates
  • Perfect backdrops for photographic safaris
  • Calving season for various wildlife species
  • Silale Swamp acts as natural water storage system
Monthly Breakdown

January-March: Perfect backdrops and excellent birdwatching with migratory species.

April-May: Fewer crowds, discounted costs, but some game viewing limitations.

June-October: Prime time for wildlife viewing with optimal weather conditions.

November-December: Green season begins with magical landscape transformations.

Tarangire Accommodation Options

From authentic camping under ancient baobabs to luxury lodges overlooking watering holes, Tarangire offers accommodation for every style and budget.

Budget Camping

Tanzania Bush Camps: Authentic wilderness camping with basic but comfortable tents and essential amenities.

Public Campsites: Budget-friendly options within the park offering true bush camping experiences under the stars.

Mid-Range Lodges

Tarangire Safari Lodge: Charming spacious rooms inside the park, close to Tarangire River with open-sided design for immersive experience.

Manyara Best View Lodge: Comfortable accommodation with excellent service and great views of the surrounding landscapes.

Luxury Lodges

Elewana Tarangire Treetops: Luxury treetop accommodation with personal outdoor decks overlooking watering holes.

Nimali Tarangire: Located in private concession with exclusive experiences among acacia and baobab trees.

Conservation & Community

Protecting Tarangire's Unique Ecosystem

Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA): Manages and protects Tarangire National Park through comprehensive conservation programs and anti-poaching efforts.

Elephant Conservation: Special focus on protecting the highest concentration of elephants in Northern Tanzania through monitoring and habitat preservation.

Ecosystem Preservation: Protecting diverse habitats from grasslands to swamps, ensuring ancient baobab trees and termite mounds remain undisturbed.

Community Involvement: Working with local Maasai communities to balance wildlife conservation with traditional pastoralist practices.

Research Programs: Ongoing studies of elephant behavior, baobab tree ecosystems, and seasonal migration patterns.

Conservation Impact
Protected since 1970
Elephant Population Monitoring
Maasai Community Partnership
Ancient Baobab Protection
Sustainable Tourism Practices

Explore Tanzania's Northern Circuit

Combine your Tarangire safari with other incredible Tanzania destinations for the ultimate East African adventure.

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Great Migration
World Heritage

Serengeti National Park

Home to the Great Migration and endless golden plains. Witness over 2 million animals on their epic journey and experience the highest concentration of large mammals on Earth.

Great Migration Spectacle
3,500 Lions in 300 Prides
Mara River Crossings
Explore Serengeti
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Natural Wonder
Africa's Eden

Ngorongoro Crater

The world's largest intact volcanic caldera with the highest wildlife concentration in Africa. Experience guaranteed Big Five sightings in this natural amphitheater.

Highest Wildlife Density
Big Five Guaranteed
8th Wonder of World
Discover Ngorongoro
Lake Manyara National Park
Tree Lions
Bird Paradise

Lake Manyara National Park

Compact park famous for tree-climbing lions, massive flocks of flamingos, and incredible biodiversity. A birdwatcher's paradise with 400+ species.

Tree-climbing Lions
400+ Bird Species
Pink Flamingo Flocks
Visit Lake Manyara
Mount Kilimanjaro
Africa's Highest
5,895m

Mount Kilimanjaro

Africa's highest peak and one of the world's Seven Summits. Combine your safari with a climbing adventure to the "Roof of Africa" through diverse climate zones.

Africa's Highest Peak
Multiple Route Options
Safari + Climb Combo
Climb Kilimanjaro
Zanzibar Beaches
Spice Island
Beach Paradise

Zanzibar Beach Extension

Perfect way to end your safari with pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, historic Stone Town, and authentic spice tours on the exotic Spice Island.

Pristine White Beaches
Historic Stone Town
Spice Tours & Culture
Safari + Beach

Ready to Experience the Kingdom of Elephants?

Let our expert safari guides help you plan the perfect Tarangire adventure. Witness massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and create memories among Africa's gentle giants.

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