Attractions
Tarangire National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is renowned for its vast elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and rich wildlife diversity. The park offers a unique landscape dominated by the Tarangire River, which acts as a vital water source for animals during the dry season. Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, and a plethora of bird species. The park is also famous for its tree-climbing lions and migratory species like wildebeest and zebras.
Accommodation List
The park offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets:
- High-End Lodges: Lemala Mpingo Ridge, Oliver’s Camp, Nomad Kuro Tarangire
- Luxury Lodges: Tarangire Ndovu Camp, Tarangire Nimali Lodge, Kuro Treetops, Maramboi Lodge
- Mid-Luxury Options: Baobab Tented Camp, Ang’ata Camp, Tarangire Safari Lodge, Sopa Lodge
Getting There
Tarangire National Park is easily accessible from Arusha, a major hub for safari adventures in Tanzania. The park is about a 2-hour drive from Arusha and can also be reached by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, followed by a road transfer. The nearest airstrip to the park is Kuro Airstrip, which is served by domestic flights.
Why Is Tarangire So Special?
Tarangire is special due to its unique landscape, rich wildlife, and relatively low visitor density compared to other parks in the northern circuit. The park’s baobab-studded scenery and large elephant populations provide a distinctive safari experience. The presence of the Tarangire River ensures year-round wildlife sightings, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more intimate and less crowded safari experience.
Is It Worth Visiting Tarangire National Park?
Absolutely. Tarangire offers a diverse and immersive safari experience, with abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Its relative seclusion compared to more famous parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater makes it a hidden gem, perfect for those looking to explore a less commercialized part of Tanzania’s natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit Tarangire
The best time to visit this park is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, animals congregate around the Tarangire River, making wildlife viewing exceptionally good. The park is also accessible during the short rainy season (November to December) and the long rainy season (March to May), but wildlife sightings may be less predictable, and some roads may become challenging to navigate.
Park Fees
As of the latest information, the entrance fee for Tarangire National Park is approximately $50 per adult per day for non-residents and $10 per child. Additional fees may apply for vehicles and camping.
Cost of a Safari to Tarangire
The cost of a safari to this park varies depending on the type of accommodation, duration and included activities. A budget safari might cost around $150-$300 per person per day, while a mid-range safari could range from $400-$600 per person per day. Luxury safaris can exceed $800 per person per day, especially if staying in high-end lodges.
How Many Days You Need in Tarangire
A stay of 2 to 3 days in Tarangire is generally recommended to fully appreciate the park’s wildlife and landscapes. This duration allows for multiple game drives and a more relaxed exploration of the park.
Activities
The park offers a wide range of activities that cater to different interests and provide a deep connection with nature.
Some activities include;
- Game drives
- Walking Safaris
- Night Game Safari
- Balloon safari experience
- Birdwatching
- Visit cultural villages
Which Is Better: Lake Manyara or Tarangire?
Both Lake Manyara and Tarangire offer unique experiences. Lake Manyara is famous for its flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and diverse birdlife, set against the backdrop of the Great Rift Valley. However, Tarangire is generally considered better for wildlife viewing due to its larger size, greater variety of habitats, and higher concentration of elephants. If time permits, visiting both parks can provide a more comprehensive experience of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.