When to Go
Year round but dry season (June - September) for sheer numbers of animals.
Park Size
2,600 sq km (1,005 sq miles).
Distance
118 km (75 miles) southwest of Arusha.
Overview
Tarangire National Park boasts some of the highest animal densities and most stunning landscapes in Tanzania. Its proximity to Arusha makes it easily accessible, and it's often combined with the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, completing Tanzania's northern safari circuit.
Tarangire is the sixth biggest park in Tanzania at 2,850 km².
It takes its name - as well as its game wealth - from the Tarangire River which flows through the park, attracting elephants and many other animals.
Tarangire has some of the highest elephant populations in the country. During peak migration from July to October, around 5,000 of these gentle giants will migrate to Tarangire - you can sometimes see groups of 300 elephants at once.
It's not just elephants that migrate across these plains. You'll also find plenty of other mammals including lions, zebras and antelopes.
The vast grasslands and Baobab trees create a rugged, 'Out of Africa' feel that's quite distinct amongst Tanzania's national parks.
It is only a short drive from Arusha on tarmac roads, making for a relatively easy-going journey, and perfect for a short safari of one or two days after a Kili climb or other safaris across Tanzania.
The best time to visit Tarangire National Park is during the dry season from June to October. These are the best months for wildlife due to migratory patterns, and the short grasses make game viewing even easier.
The animals flock towards the Tarangire river for water, allowing for easy sightings.
In order to see the big herds of elephants, we recommend visiting towards the latter period of the dry season (September/October).
November can be especially cheap, as it is out of peak season but tends to still be quite dry before the short rains hit. The low season, from late November to May, is great for bird watching as the area is wet, green and luscious.