ABOUT TARANGIRE
Tarangire National Park is a gem within Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, known for its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and iconic baobab trees. Here’s everything you need to know about Tarangire:
Location : Tarangire National Park is located in northern Tanzania, approximately 118 kilometers (73 miles) southwest of Arusha. It lies within the Manyara Region and is bordered by Lake Manyara National Park to the east.
Landscape : The park is characterized by a varied landscape, including vast savannah plains, acacia woodlands, seasonal marshes, and the Tarangire River, which serves as a vital water source for wildlife during the dry season. The park is also dotted with iconic baobab trees, which add to its scenic beauty.
Size : Tarangire National Park covers an area of approximately 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles), making it the sixth-largest national park in Tanzania.
Activities : Common activities in Tarangire National Park include game drives, guided walks, birdwatching, and cultural visits to Maasai communities. Night drives are also permitted in the park, offering the chance to spot nocturnal wildlife such as leopards, hyenas, and civets.
Accommodation : Tarangire National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including luxury lodges, tented camps, and campsites. Many lodges and camps are located within or near the park boundaries, offering stunning views and easy access to wildlife-rich areas.
Wildlife : Tarangire is renowned for its large elephant population, with herds of hundreds of elephants congregating along the Tarangire River during the dry season (from June to October). The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, and various antelope species such as impala and greater kudu. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the park’s rich birdlife, with over 500 bird species recorded.
Best Time to Visit :The dry season (from June to October) is considered the best time to visit Tarangire National Park for wildlife viewing. During this time, the vegetation thins out, and animals gather around the Tarangire River and other water sources, making them easier to spot. The wet season (from November to May) brings lush green landscapes and migratory bird species to the area, but wildlife disperses more widely due to the availability of water throughout the park.
Accessibility:The park is accessible by road from Arusha with the journey taking approximatly 2-3 hours. Many visitors combined a visit to Tarangire with a safari in neighboring parks such as lake Manyara or Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Conservation : Tarangire national Park is managed by the Tanzania National Park Authority (TANAPA) with the aim of conserving its natural and cultural heritage.Visitors are encouraged to adhere to park and regulations to minimize their impact on the enviroment and wildlife.
Entry Fees : Visitors to Tarangire Narional Park are required to pay entry fees which contribute to conservation effort and park management. Fees vary depending on nationality, Vehicle type and duration of stay so it’s advisable to check with park authorities or tour operators for latest fee information.
Overall, Tarangire National Park offers a rewarding safari experince with its stunning landscape, prolific wildlife, and unique cultural encounters, making it a must-visit destion for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers in Tanzania.