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Tarangire National Park
Land of giants
Ancient baobabs, the Tarangire River and some of the largest elephant gatherings in Africa — just two hours from Arusha.
Where the elephants gather.
Tarangire takes its name from the river that flows through it. In the dry season the Tarangire River is the only permanent water for miles around, and wildlife streams in from the surrounding Maasai Steppe — making it one of the best places in East Africa for big elephant herds.
The landscape is unforgettable: giant baobab trees, some many centuries old, rise above golden grass and acacia woodland. In the south, the Silale Swamp draws buffalo, elephants and predators even at the height of the dry season.
Tarangire is quieter than the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, which is why we love to start our northern safaris here — it is the perfect introduction to the bush.
Tarangire RiverWhat you'll see.
In the dry season, Tarangire has one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in northern Tanzania.
Elephants
Herds of dozens — sometimes hundreds — of elephants gather along the river to drink, bathe and play.
Buffalo & wildebeest
Large herds of buffalo, wildebeest and zebra migrate into the park as the surrounding land dries out.
Lions & leopards
Lions rest in the shade near the river, and leopards are sometimes seen draped in the trees.
Rare antelope
Look for fringe-eared oryx, gerenuk and lesser kudu — species rarely seen elsewhere in the north.
Birdlife
More than 450 species, from yellow-collared lovebirds and hornbills to kori bustards and ostriches.
Baobabs
The iconic upside-down trees store water in their trunks and provide food and shelter for wildlife.
When to visit.
Game viewing peaks in the dry season, when animals concentrate along the river.
Dry season — best
Wildlife crowds the Tarangire River. Expect big elephant herds and excellent predator sightings.
Green season
Many animals disperse onto the steppe, but the park is lush, quiet and superb for birdwatching.
Long rains
The wettest months. Some tracks become muddy, but the scenery is beautifully green.
Things to do 
in Tarangire.
River game drives
Follow the Tarangire River at a gentle pace and watch elephant families come down to drink.
Baobab photography
Capture elephants framed by ancient baobabs in the golden light of late afternoon.
Silale Swamp
Explore the southern swamp, a magnet for buffalo, elephants, lions and waterbirds.
Birdwatching
One of the best birding parks in Tanzania, especially during the green season.
Bush picnic
Enjoy lunch at a scenic picnic site overlooking the river valley.
Perfect first stop
Just two hours from Arusha — ideal for the first day of a northern circuit safari.
Tarangire
in pictures.
A glimpse of what is waiting for you.
Getting there.
Practical tips to help you plan your visit to Tarangire.
By road
About 2 hours (around 120 km) from Arusha on a tarmac road — easy to combine with Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro.
By air
Light-aircraft flights from Arusha serve the Kuro airstrip inside the park.
Where to stay
Tented camps and lodges inside and just outside the park, many with views over the river or a waterhole.
Good to know
Tsetse flies can be found in some woodland areas — wear neutral colours and avoid dark blue and black clothing.
Safaris that visit Tarangire.
View All Safaris
Frequently asked
questions.
Meet the giants of Tarangire.
Start your Tanzania adventure among the elephants and baobabs — we will plan every detail.