Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is located in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit, famous for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees.

Wildlife of Tarangire

Tarangire National Park is a remarkable wildlife destination in northern Tanzania, known for its vast elephant herds and diverse landscapes. Covering about 2,850 square kilometers, the park is characterized by the Tarangire River, which acts as a lifeline for animals, particularly during the dry season when it becomes the primary water source. The park’s name comes from this river, which plays a central role in the life cycle of the wildlife that inhabits the region.

Located in the Northern circuit of Tanzania’s iconic wildlife safari destinations, Tarangire National Park is a unique Tanzanian safari destination covering an area of about two thousand, eight hundred and fifty square kilometers (2,850 Km2). Being the sixth largest national park in Tanzania, Tarangire is home to a rich variety of wildlife.

Lion
20%
Elephant
35%
Leopard - Hard to spot
15%
Zebras and Wildebeest
10%
Buffalo
5%
Giraffe
10%
Cheetah
5%

Attraction in Tarangire National Park

 Here are some important points about this stunning attraction.

Largest herds of elephants. As stated earlier, Tarangire National Park hosts the largest concentration of elephants. Huge herds of elephants are always spotted crossing or grazing at a far distance in the vast plains of this wonderful park. However, you should be aware of how aggressive the elephants are, especially when in large groups. Therefore, be careful when you come close to them to take pictures with a background of these giant land animals.

Colorful birds. Tarangire is like a birder’s paradise in Tanzania. It is home to the largest concentration of birds in any park in the country. Over 550 bird species are found within this park. Some of such birds include yellow-collared lovebirds, ashy starlings, and red-billed hornbills. Other bird species include Spur fowls, Bee-eaters, plovers, eagles, vultures, swifts, Hammerkops, owls, Helmeted Guinea fowl, Crested Francolin, Lilac-breasted rollers, barbet, moosebirds, striped swallows, and the endangered Rufus-tailed weaver.

The ancient Baobab Trees. Tarangire is also home to the oldest baobab trees situated in various areas. The Baobab trees of Tarangire are said to have a life span of up to 300 years. Baobab trees are wonderful trees with a unique capability of storing up to 1000 liters of water inside their trunks. These trees carry some mythical tales from the local communities. According to them “baobab trees could migrate from one place to another within Africa. Their aimless movement made God angry and to punish them he planted them upside down”. Funny isn’t it?

Tarangire River. The majestic Tarangire River is an exciting feature not to be missed while on a visit to Tarangire National Park. During the dry season, most parts of Tarangire become dry except this river. Therefore, serves as a lifeline of the Tarangire Ecosystem. Thousands of wild animals, especially grass-eating ones gather close to this river for water. Predators also come close to this area in search of prey and water. You will observe the riverine trees and some aquatic animals like Hippos and crocodiles. In the riverine forests, colorful and beautiful songbirds are usually spotted.

Wildlife in Tarangire. Tarangire is home to several wild animals, some of which include warthogs, buffalos, zebras, wildebeests, antelopes, eland, and giraffes not forget the predators such as lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, jackals, cheetahs, and Nile crocodiles, which look for an easy prey. The African elephants are usually spotted grazing in huge groups in this park.

Things to do in Tarangire National Park

Game drive. This is a must-do thing while on a visit to Tarangire. A day game drive offers spectacular scenes of landscapes, birds, and wild animals. A night game drive which is conducted after dinner rewards you with sensational views of nocturnal species such as hyenas, leopards, porcupines, and genets.

Guided walks. Guided nature walk is another captivating activity to do while on safari in Tarangire. On your walk, you may encounter small animals and reptiles like hyraxes and snakes. Small plant species are also always observed easily on a walking safari. You will also observe natural beauties like waterfalls, rivers, swamps, springs, and hills.

Cultural visits. You can also have a cultural tour of the Maasai villages, which are located on the outskirts of Tarangire. There, you can get engaged with the cultural practices of this world’s vibrant tribe. Maasai are good artisans and weavers. They make and sell handmade artifacts like beaded necklaces, earrings, Maasai sandals, and anklets. Maasai also perform traditional performances. This may be your best performance in your travels.

If you want an unforgettable adventure in the wilderness of Africa, Tanzania is the best destination, while Focus East Africa Safaris is the best tour operator to take you through this safari. This lovely country is overwhelmed with its breathtaking parks, each with a unique safari experience when visited by any safari-goer. If you are looking forward to having an adventurous safari in Tanzanian parks, other fine safari destinations apart from Tarangire National Park include Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, and Mikumi National Park.

Summary & Booking

Tarangire National Park

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