TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK – TANZANIA
Tarangire National Park is a national park in Tanzania’s Manyara Region. The name of the park originates from the Tarangire River that crosses the park. The Tarangire River is the primary source of fresh water for wild animals in the Tarangire Ecosystem during the annual dry season. The Tarangire Ecosystem is defined by the long-distance migration of wildebeest and zebras. During the dry season thousands of animals concentrate in Tarangire National Park from the surrounding wet-season dispersal and calving areas.
It covers an area of approximately 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles.) The landscape is composed of granitic ridges, river valley, and swamps. Vegetation is a mix of Acacia woodland, Combretum woodland, seasonally flooded grassland, and baobab trees.
The park is famous for its high density of elephants and baobab trees. Visitors to the park in the June to November dry season can expect to see large herds of thousands of zebra, wildebeest and cape buffalo. Other common resident animals include waterbuck, giraffe, dik dik, impala, eland, Grant’s gazelle, vervet monkey, banded mongoose, and olive baboon. Predators in Tarangire include lion, leopard, cheetah, caracal, honey badger, and African wild dog.
The oldest known elephant to give birth to twins is found in Tarangire. A recent birth of elephant twins in the Tarangire National Park of Tanzania is a great example of how the birth of these two healthy and thriving twins can beat the odds.
Home to more than 550 bird species, the park is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The park is also famous for the termite mounds that dot the landscape. Those that have been abandoned are often home to dwarf mongoose. In 2015, a giraffe that is white due to leucism was spotted in the park.Wildlife research is focused on African bush elephant and Masai giraffe.
Since 2005, the protected area is considered a Lion Conservation Unit.
Location & access
Tarangire National Park can be reached via paved road south from Arusha in under two hours. Lake Manyara National Park is a 70 kilometer (43 mile) drive from Tarangire.
Located in northern Tanzania, is a stunning safari destination known for its unique landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Wildlife Safaris:
Tarangire National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including large herds of elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalos, and various antelope species. Visitors can enjoy thrilling game drives through the park’s open savannahs, lush riverine forests, and picturesque baobab tree-dotted landscapes, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Bird Watching:
Tarangire National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 500 bird species. The park’s swamps and floodplains attract a wide variety of migratory and resident birds, including colorful kingfishers, hornbills, weavers, raptors, and ostriches. Bird watching tours and guided walks allow visitors to explore the park’s rich avian diversity.
Tarangire River:
The Tarangire River is the lifeblood of the park, attracting wildlife during the dry season (June to October). As water sources in the surrounding areas dry up, the river becomes a vital water source, leading to incredible concentrations of wildlife along its banks. Visitors can witness large herds of elephants, zebras, and other animals gathering around the river, creating unforgettable wildlife sightings.
Night Game Drives:
Tarangire National Park offers the unique opportunity to embark on night game drives. Accompanied by experienced guides and armed rangers, visitors can explore the park after dark and observe nocturnal wildlife, such as leopards, bushbabies, civets, and hyenas. Night drives provide a different perspective and a chance to witness the park’s lesser-known creatures.
Walking Safaris:
Walking safaris in Tarangire National Park allow visitors to explore the wilderness on foot, accompanied by professional guides. Walking through the park’s diverse habitats, including open grasslands and acacia woodlands, provides an intimate experience and a chance to learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem, such as plants, tracks, and insect life.
Cultural Interaction:
Tarangire is situated near traditional Maasai communities, providing opportunities for cultural encounters. Visitors can visit Maasai villages, learn about their traditional way of life, participate in cultural activities, and purchase locally made crafts and souvenirs.
Photography:
Tarangire’s scenic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique baobab trees make it a photographer’s paradise. The park’s dramatic lighting conditions, especially during sunrise and sunset, offer fantastic opportunities for capturing stunning images of wildlife and landscapes.
Camping and Lodges:
Tarangire National Park offers a range of accommodation options, including tented camps and lodges, for visitors to stay within or near the park. Some campsites provide a more rustic and immersive experience, while lodges offer comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Staying overnight in the park allows for extended wildlife experiences and the chance to enjoy the sounds of the African bush at night.
Tarangire National Park’s distinct landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique safari experiences make it a must-visit destination in Tanzania. Its proximity to other iconic parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area makes it an excellent addition to any northern Tanzania safari itinerary.