Tarangire National Park is a national park in Tanzania, located in the Manyara Region. The park was established in 1970 and covers an area of approximately 2,850 square kilometers. Tarangire National Park is also an important Tanzania safari destination for bird watching, with over 500 species of birds recorded in the park, including the yellow-collared lovebird, rufous-tailed weaver, and ashy starling.
Tarangire National Park is a popular Tanzania safari destination for visitors, offering a unique and diverse Tanzania wildlife experience, beautiful landscapes, and opportunities for cultural and outdoor activities.
What is special about Tarangire National Park?
Tarangire National Park is known for its unique and diverse Tanzania wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences. Here are some things that make it special:
Large herds of elephants: Tarangire National Park is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in Tanzania, and visitors can often see large herds of these majestic creatures roaming the park.
Diverse wildlife: In addition to elephants, Tarangire is home to a wide range of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and more. The park is also known for its large numbers of baobab trees and bird species.
Scenic landscapes: Tarangire landscapes are a unique combination of savannah grasslands, acacia woodlands, and riverine forests. The park also has several picturesque swamps and seasonal rivers, which provide a stunning backdrop for Tanzania safari wildlife viewing.
Cultural experiences: The Park is located in an area that is home to several different ethnic groups, including the Maasai and the Barabaig people. Visitors can take cultural tours and learn about the local way of life, including traditional dances, handicrafts, and hunting techniques.
Off-the-beaten-path destination: While Tarangire is a popular destination for Tanzania wildlife viewing safari, it is less crowded than other national parks in Tanzania, making it a great choice for visitors who want to avoid the crowds and experience a more authentic Tanzania safari.
Where is Tarangire National Park located?
Tarangire National Park is located in northern Tanzania, about 118 kilometers (73 miles) southwest of Arusha. The park covers an area of approximately 2,850 square kilometers (1,100 square miles) and is part of the larger Tarangire ecosystem that includes the adjacent wildlife management areas and corridors that link it to other protected areas such as Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and the Serengeti ecosystem.
What is the best time to visit Tarangire?
The best time to visit Tarangire National Park depends on what you want to see and do. Here are some things to consider:
Wildlife viewing: The dry season (June to October) is the best time to see wildlife. During this time, the vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around the Tarangire River and other water sources, making them easier to spot.
Bird watching: November to April is the best time for bird watching in Tarangire National Park, as migratory birds from Europe and Asia flock to the area during this time.
Photography: The light is best for photography during the dry season, as the skies are clear and the sunlight is less harsh.
Walking safaris: Walking safaris are best done during the dry season when the grass is shorter and visibility is better.
It’s important to note that Tarangire National Park can be visited year-round, and each season has its own unique advantages. The wet season (November to May) can be a good time to visit for those who want to see lush greenery and fewer crowds, but it may be more challenging to spot Tanzania wildlife as animals are more dispersed. Ultimately, the best time to visit Tarangire National Park depends on your interests and priorities.
Why is it called Tarangire?
Tarangire National Park is named after the Tarangire River, which runs through the park. The river is the primary source of water for the park’s wildlife, especially during the dry season when other water sources in the area have dried up. The river attracts a large number of animals, making it an ideal location for game viewing.
The name “Tarangire” is derived from the Maasai word “tarangari,” which means “river of warthogs.” This name was given to the river due to the large number of warthogs that can be seen along its banks. Today, the river is still a popular spot for visitors to the park to observe wildlife, including elephants, lions, and many other species of animals that come to drink and cool off in its waters.
Accommodations
The Park has a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences.
Lodges: There are several lodges located within the park, including Tarangire Sopa Lodge, Tarangire Safari Lodge, and Swala Camp. These lodges offer comfortable accommodations and amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and guided game drives.
Tented camps: There are several tented camps located within and around the park, such as Kichuguu Camp, Tarangire River Camp, and Oliver’s Camp. These camps offer a more immersive and authentic safari experience, with spacious tents, private en-suite bathrooms, and outdoor dining areas.
Mobile camps: For those who want a more adventurous experience, mobile camps such as Kuro Tarangire and Little Oliver’s can be set up in different locations within the park, allowing visitors to experience different parts of the park.
Outside the park: There are several lodges and camps located outside the park boundaries, such as Sangaiwe Tented Lodge, Maramboi Tented Lodge, and Lake Burunge Tented Camp. These accommodations offer a quieter and more secluded experience, with stunning views of the park and the surrounding landscape.
No matter which type of accommodation you choose, staying in or near Tarangire National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and Tanzania wildlife in a comfortable and convenient way.
