If you are planning a Northern Circuit safari, Tarangire National Park is one of the best places to begin. It is about two hours by road from Arusha, so you start seeing wildlife on your first day without a long drive.
Elephants and baobabs
Tarangire is known for large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, which are some of the most photographed trees in Africa. In the dry season, big herds gather around the Tarangire River, and you can watch them drinking and bathing.
More than elephants
Zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, giraffe, impala and many other animals use the river too. Lions, leopards and cheetah are possible, and lions are sometimes seen resting in trees or on termite mounds. Birdlife is outstanding, with hundreds of species recorded.
When to go
The best time for Tarangire is the dry season, June to October. During those months wildlife concentrates along the river and game viewing is at its best. From November to May the park is green and good for birds, with fewer vehicles, but animals are more spread out. April and May are the wettest.
How long to stay
One full day gives you a good taste. Two days gives more time at the river and for birdwatching. Many of our guests spend one night here at the start of a longer safari.
How it fits with other parks
- Arusha: about 120 km, roughly 2 hours.
- Lake Manyara: about 90 km, around 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Karatu and Ngorongoro: about 100 km to Karatu, and about 125 km to the crater rim.
For the full list of distances, a month-by-month guide and a small map, read our Tarangire National Park guide.
Tours that include Tarangire
Our 4-day Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro safari and 5-day Northern Tanzania safari both start here. You can also add waterfalls and coffee on our 6-day safari with Materuni Waterfalls. Next stop on most trips: Ngorongoro Crater.
Plan it with a local team
Tell us your dates and what you want to see, and we will reply within 24 hours with a tailor-made private itinerary and a clear price. Send us your questions or message us on WhatsApp. Let’s Wander Tanzania is locally owned and TALA licensed (#036127).