Northern Circuit • Tanzania

Tarangire National Park

Tanzania's best-kept safari secret — famous for its massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and over 550 bird species along the winding Tarangire River.

What to See & Do Plan This Safari

2,850 km²

Park Area

550+

Bird Species

1970

Established

Jun – Oct

Peak Season

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Tarangire National Park

Tanzania's Elephant Capital

Established in 1970, Tarangire National Park is often regarded as Tanzania's best-kept safari secret. Covering an area of 2,850 km², it is the sixth-largest national park in the country. The park is named after the Tarangire River, which translates to "winding river of warthogs."

Tarangire is famous for its large population of Afrikan elephants, unique baobab trees, and a diverse range of wildlife including the rare fringe-eared oryx. The iconic baobab trees, locally known as "upside-down trees," add to the park's distinctive scenery. The Tarangire River is the only water source in the area, attracting significant concentrations of animals — especially during the dry season when wildlife gathers along its banks.

With over 550 bird species, Tarangire is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, home to both permanent and migratory species including the Maasai ostrich, the largest bird in the world. The park's varied landscapes provide ideal wildlife viewing and photography opportunities, with four of the Big Five and rare sightings of cheetahs and wild dogs among the highlights.

What to See

Wildlife & Highlights

Activities

Safari Experiences

When to Visit

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Tarangire is during the dry season from June to October, and in January and February. During these months animals gather around the Tarangire River, making wildlife sightings more frequent. The migration of elephant herds is a major attraction during this period.

How to Get There

Getting to the Park

By Road: Approximately 2 hours' drive from Arusha, the safari transit town.

By Air: Domestic flight from Arusha Airport (ARK) to Tarangire — approximately 20 minutes.

Through the Lens