Logo

Northern Circuit ·Field Guide № 03

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is located in the northern part of Tanzania, approximately 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) southwest of Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit

137 km² Park Area
2.5 hrs From Arusha
550+ Bird Species
Jun–Oct Best Season
1–2 Ideal Nights
★ 4.9 Guest Rating
📍
Location Manyara
☀️
Best Time to Visit Jun–Oct
🚌
From Arusha 2.5 hrs
🌙
Recommended Stay 1–2
About This Destination

Giant baobabs and rivers of elephants.

Tarangire National Park is located in the northern part of Tanzania, approximately 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) southwest of Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. The park lies within the Manyara Region and is easily accessible by road from Arusha, making it a popular stop for safari-goers traveling between Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Northern Circuit Area: 137 km² Best season: Jun–Oct Ideal stay: 1–2 nights
Must-See

Top Attractions & Highlights

Highlight 01

Elephant Herds

Tarangire National Park is renowned for its large herds of elephants, often seen congregating around the park's rivers and waterholes, especially during the dry season. The park’s elephants are among the most iconic and easily spotted in Tanzania.

Highlight 02

Baobab Trees

The park is home to some of Africa’s most striking baobab trees, with their massive trunks and twisted branches. These trees add a unique character to the landscape and are often a favorite subject for photographers.

Highlight 03

Birdlife

Tarangire National Park is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 500 bird species recorded in the park, including the endangered yellow-collared lovebird. The park’s diverse habitats, including swamps and woodlands, attract a wide variety of bird species.

Highlight 04

Predators

Tarangire National Park also hosts a variety of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. While not as prevalent as in some other parks, sightings of these predators are possible, especially around the swamps and river areas.

Activities

What to See & Do

i Seeing massive elephant herds roam through grassy river valleys.
ii Spotting lions, leopards, and cheetahs near the Tarangire River.
iii Admiring ancient baobab trees scattered across the rolling landscape.
iv Watching zebra, wildebeest, and buffalo gather at waterholes.
v Birdwatching over 500 species, including hornbills and lovebirds.
vi Going on walking safaris to explore the bush up close with guides.
vii Photographing sunset silhouettes of wildlife and giant baobabs.
viii Camping in the wild for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path safari.
When to Go

Best Time to Visit

June to October
Dry Season

The best time to visit Tarangire National Park is during the dry season, when animals gather around the park’s limited water sources. This is the peak period for wildlife viewing, as elephants, zebras, and other…

Game viewing
November to May
Wet Season

While the wet season brings lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, it is also the best time for birdwatching, as migratory bird species are present. The park’s vegetation is also thicker, making animal sightings…

Birding
Visual Journey

Photo Gallery

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book a tour package? +
Can I reserve without immediate payment? +
How far in advance should I book? +
Will I get a confirmation after booking? +
Plan Your Visit

Safari Packages for Tarangire National Park

Handcrafted itineraries designed to show you the very best of this iconic destination.

5 Days / 4 Nights

The Full Northern Arc: Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro & Culture

Four nights. Every landmark of the northern circuit, plus the human story that most safaris skip. The Full…

10 Days / 9 Nights

First Light: The Northern Honeymoon Safari

Ten days across Tanzania's most iconic wilderness, ending where the Indian Ocean begins. This is the honeymoon Tanzania…

3 Days / 2 Nights

The Quick Escape: Tarangire & Ngorongoro

Two nights. A collapsed volcano and the elephant kingdom. Back on Zanzibar's beach by Day 4. This is…

Your Adventure Awaits

Start Planning Your Tarangire National Park Safari

Speak with our specialists to craft a private expedition tailored entirely to your timeline and wishes.