Where is Tarangire National Park?
Tarangire National Park is located outside the popular Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit. It’s between the grassy Masai Steppe and the lakes of the Great Rift Valley.
The park get’s it’s name from Tarangire River, known as the lifeline of the park. This river is essential for sustaining the wildlife within the park during these arid periods.
This river travels northward before leaving the park at the northwestern edge, eventually flowing into Lake Burungi. The park also features several expansive swamps that transform into verdant plains in the southern part as the dry season progresses.
What activities are found in Park?
As for activities, Tarangire National Park offers a range of options.
1. Game drives are the most popular activity, providing opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and many bird species. The park is well known for its large baobab trees and stunning landscapes, making it a great destination for photography enthusiasts.
2. Bird watching is particularly rewarding, Tarangire National Park is renowned for its exceptional bird watching opportunities, with a rich diversity of over 500 bird species. The park features unique dry-country species at the edge of their range, including the northern pied babbler and the vulturine guineafowl.
Bird lovers will particularly enjoy spotting the vibrant yellow-collared lovebird and other species like the rufous-tailed weaver and ashy starling, which are endemic to the north-central Tanzanian savannah.
The optimal time for bird watching is from November to April, which aligns with the migratory season of various bird species.
The park’s varied landscapes, such as hills, woodlands, and swampy floodplains, provide ideal habitats for different bird species. Key species to look out for include ostriches, hornbills, the Kori bustard (the heaviest flying bird), and various eagles and vultures.
Tarangire offers a comprehensive birding experience all year round, but the presence of migratory birds during the wet season enhances the experience
3. A Hot Air Balloon safari in Tarangire National Park offers an incredible and unique perspective of the park’s landscapes and wildlife.
For a more immersive experience, guided walking safaris and cultural tours to visit local Maasai and Datoga communities are also available. These activities offer a closer look at the park’s natural environment and an opportunity to learn about the local cultures.
It’s important to plan your visit according to what you want to experience, whether it’s the best game viewing conditions or the lush landscapes of the wet season.
What is the best time to visit Tarangire National Park?
The best time to visit Tarangire National Park in Tanzania largely depends on what you want to experience. Here’s a breakdown by season:
- Dry Season (June to October): Generally considered the best time to visit Tarangire National Park. Wildlife viewing is excellent during these months as animals congregate around the Tarangire River and other water sources, making them easier to spot. The vegetation is less dense, improving visibility. It’s also the peak season for tourists, so expect more crowds and higher rates at lodges and camps.
- Wet Season (November to May): The park is lush and green during this time, offering beautiful scenery. Birdwatching is particularly good, especially from December to April when migratory birds are present. The park is less crowded, and accommodations may offer lower rates. Wildlife viewing can be more challenging due to the thicker vegetation and because animals are more dispersed.
- Calving Season (January to February): This is a unique time to visit, especially if you’re interested in seeing baby animals. Many herbivores give birth during this period, attracting predators and leading to interesting wildlife interactions.
How can you get to Park?
There are several options depending on your starting point and preferences:
- By Air:
- The nearest major airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport, followed by Arusha Airport. From there, you can take a charter flight to Kuro Airstrip in Tarangire.
- This option is convenient if you’re coming from far away or wish to minimize travel time.
- By Road:
- Tarangire is about a 2-hour drive from Arusha, which is a common starting point for northern Tanzania safaris.