Tarangire National Park is one of the largest parks in Tanzania,with an area of 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles). The landscape features extensive valleys, mountains, and wetlands. The flora consists of acacia forest, baobab trees, Combretum woodland, and seasonally inundated grassland. The expansive grasslands and Baobab trees evoke a harsh, 'Out of Africa' ambiance that is notably unique among Tanzania's national parks.
The park is a two-hour drive from Arusha, one and a half hours from Ngorongoro Crater, and four hours from Serengeti National Park. The park is located near several locations, including Lake Manyara National Park. The name originates from the Tarangire River that traverses the park. Diverse wildlife species utilize the river as a principal water supply, particularly during the arid season.
Tarangire boasts some of the largest elephant populations in Africa, with herds comprising up to 300 individuals. From July to October, approximately 5,000 of these elephants migrate to Tarangire. One cannot overlook the substantial populations of giraffes, elands, Coke's hartebeests, greater and lesser kudu, Bohor reedbuck, buffaloes, Thompson's gazelle, zebras, the uncommon gerenuk, fringe-eared oryx, and a limited number of black rhinos; leopards, lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are also prevalent. There are more than 545 avian species, including lovebirds and reticent starlings, among others.
The Optimal Period for Visiting a National Park
Tarangire National Park
The optimal period to explore Tarangire National Park is the dry season, spanning from June to October. The optimal months for wildlife observation coincide with migration patterns, and the short grasses facilitate game watching.
The animals congregate around the Tarangire River for hydration, facilitating convenient observations.
To observe the large herds of elephants, one must visit the park during the latter part of the dry season (September/October).
November is often economical, as it falls outside the peak season while remaining relatively arid prior to the onset of the short rains. The off-peak season, from late November to May, is ideal for avian observation due to the region's moist, verdant, and lush conditions.
Geographical Position of Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park is situated in Northern Tanzania, immediately south of Lake Manyara National Park and a brief drive from Arusha. Tarangire is a favored destination for travelers navigating the northern Tanzanian safari circuit en route to Ngorongoro and the Serengeti due to its relative seclusion. The park is partitioned into two gem-regulated zones, allowing wildlife to traverse freely.
The park is located between the Masai steppe grasslands to the southeast and the Great Rift Valley lakes to the north and west. The perennial River Tarangire is situated in the northern section of Tarangire, serving as the park's vital resource, particularly during the arid season when the majority of the area is entirely desiccated.
Tarangire National Park Atmospheric Conditions and Climatic Patterns
The climate in Tarangire National Park is agreeable and moderate. The "Long Rains" occur from March to May, while the "Short Rains" take place from November to December, constituting the sole two wet seasons. Precipitation typically occurs in the afternoon and infrequently at other times during the day. Temperatures never reach excessive heat, however nights and mornings can be rather cool. Warm clothing is recommended for morning game drives.
June, July, August, September, and October constitute the arid months. The afternoon temperature is 26°C (79°F). The days are clear, and the sky is serene. Nighttime temperatures decrease to approximately 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit).
Information regarding Tarangire National Park
Tarangire possesses some of the largest elephant populations in the nation. From July to October, over 5,000 of these creatures come to Tarangire, with groups of up to 300 elephants occasionally visible simultaneously.
The expansive grasslands and Baobab trees evoke a harsh, 'Out of Africa' ambiance that is notably unique among Tanzania's national parks.
The destination is a brief drive from Arusha via paved roads, facilitating a relatively effortless journey, ideal for a short safari of one or two days following a Kilimanjaro trek or other safaris throughout Tanzania.
Activities and attractions in Tarangire National Park
Game Drive Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park provides tourists with a diverse array of animal species; notably, it is home to the greatest herds of elephants, often comprising about 300 individuals roaming collectively, making it one of the parks with the highest elephant density in Tanzania. If you reside outside the park boundaries, you may have the opportunity to partake in game drives, walking tours, and night safaris. Oliver's Camp presently arranges walking tours and fly-in camping safaris.
Night Car Drive
Are night game drives permitted in Tarangire? Night game drives are permitted in the park; however, not all accommodations provide these tours. Only entities that have adequately fulfilled all requirements and regulations set forth by TANAPA, such as Swala and Oliver’s camp, are permitted to conduct these drives.
Tarangire Balloon Safaris
Experience a hot air balloon ride over Tarangire, where you can ascend above the treetops and gain a unique vantage point of wildlife, including lions, below.
Bird Watching
Birdwatching is a highly favored activity at Tarangire National Park, which hosts over 500 species of birds, appealing to numerous avian enthusiasts. The park hosts various dry-country avian species at the limits of their distribution, including the northern pied babbler and vulturine guinea fowl. When visiting Tarangire, it is advisable to choose the wet season, specifically from February to March, as this period is considered the optimal time for birdwatching annually. This will undoubtedly provide you with a fascinating experience of a lifetime.
