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Tarangire NP
Overview
Wildlife
Birds
Best Time To Visit
Weather & Climate
Getting There
Malaria & Safety
Overview
Wildlife
Birds
Best Time
Climate
Getting There
Malaria & Safety
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience .
- Live Location
- View Photos
- Open Map
Best Time To Go
July to November (Wildlife gather around the Tarangire River)
High Season
June to October (The park is busy with visitors)
Size
2,850 km² / 1,100 mi²
Altitude
985–1,528 m / 3,232–5,013 ft
During the dry season, Tarangire National Park becomes a vibrant wildlife sanctuary. Elephant herds, sometimes reaching up to 300, dig for underground streams in dry riverbeds, transforming the landscape into a dynamic life scene. Migratory animals, including wildebeests, zebras, and buffalos, join the gathering, creating a breathtaking panorama. Amidst this vibrant tapestry, lions reign as apex predators, while smaller carnivores like jackals and foxes contribute to the park’s diverse ecosystem. Year-round, Tarangire remains a sanctuary for leopards, giraffes, gazelles, and countless bird species, offering unforgettable encounters in this iconic African landscape.
The Tarangire River is the park’s defining feature, even as it dries up during the season. The landscape is richly vegetated with acacia shrubs and mixed woodlands punctuated by the iconic and massive baobab trees. A vast network of seasonal swamps in the southern region adds to the park’s distinctive beauty.
Tarangire National Park experiences two distinct primary seasons: the dry season, which spans from June to October and is characterised by predominantly sunny and arid conditions, and the wet season (November to May). The wet season is further divided into the short rains (November to December) and the long rains (March to May), separated by a brief dry spell in January to February.
From July to November, Tarangire becomes a bustling wildlife haven, with animals drawn to the Tarangire River, the park’s primary water source. During this period, early morning safaris can be quite chilly due to the low sun, so it’s recommended to pack warm clothing for your game drives.
From July to November, the Tarangire River becomes a lifeline for migrating wildlife, drawing immense herds of wildebeest, zebra, eland, Coke’s hartebeest, gazelle, buffalo, and a staggering number of elephants. This concentration of prey turns the area into a predator’s paradise, offering an extraordinary chance to witness lions in their element amid one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles.
- Abundant
- Common
- Occasional
- Rare
- None
- Abundant
- Abundant
- Abundant
- Abundant
- Common
- Common
- Common
- Occasional
- Rare
- Rare
- None
- None
Tarangire National Park is celebrated for its remarkable wildlife, showcasing rare dry-land antelope like the fringe-eared oryx and the graceful, long-necked gerenuk. In the southern marshlands, elephants and buffaloes are often seen enjoying the mud, while the fortunate may catch sight of the elusive Silale Swamp lion pride or even the rare wild dogs. This is not just a visit—it’s an encounter with nature’s most extraordinary wonders.
From July to November, Tarangire National Park offers an unparalleled wildlife spectacle. As water sources dry up in the surrounding wilderness, vast herds of animals are irresistibly drawn to the life-sustaining Tarangire River. The combination of thinner vegetation and concentrated wildlife creates extraordinary opportunities for unforgettable sightings. Come December, the great migration begins, and the park’s wildlife slowly disperses, marking the end of this prime viewing season.
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Notable Birds in Tarangire NP
Tarangire’s birdlife thrives year-round, but from November to April, the park transforms into a birdwatcher’s paradise. During this prime season, the arrival of Palearctic and intra-African migratory birds coincides with the vibrant nesting season of resident species, offering a rare spectacle of nature in full colour. For those drawn to the broader wildlife experience, the dry season from July to November is unmatched, as animals gather around water sources, making for unforgettable sightings.
Bird Species
500+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
- Excellent
- Good
- Fair
- Poor
The prime time for wildlife viewing in Tarangire National Park is from July to November, perfectly aligned with the mid to late dry season. During these months, the park transforms into a wildlife haven, with animals flocking to the area for water and food, offering exceptional viewing opportunities. In contrast, from November to May, the wet season sees many animals migrating out of the park, leading to a noticeable decline in wildlife sightings.
Best Time
From July to November, the Tarangire River draws vast herds of wildlife, creating an extraordinary natural spectacle.
High Season
June to October is Tarangire's peak season, attracting visitors to its vibrant wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Low Season
April and May mark the low season, offering the potential for lower rates on accommodations and activities.
Best Weather
June to October offers the best weather, with minimal rainfall and ideal conditions for exploration.
Worst Weather
March and April are the peak of the wet season, bringing the highest rainfall of the year.
- View Photos
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
Tarangire National Park offers a moderate and pleasant climate year-round, making it an ideal destination in any season. The rainy season is beautifully divided into short rains from November to December and long rains from March to May, with a brief dry spell in January and February. Rainfall usually graces the afternoons and seldom lasts all day, allowing plenty of time to explore. While temperatures remain comfortably mild, the mornings and evenings can be refreshingly cool, particularly during game drives. Packing warm clothing for these early adventures is highly recommended.
The dry season in Tarangire National Park is marked by golden sunshine and rare rainfall. As the season unfolds, the landscape becomes dustier, and the sky adopts a distinctive haze that defines this time of year.
- June, July & August: Days are bathed in warm, pleasant temperatures around 24°C (75°F), with clear blue skies stretching endlessly overhead. As evening approaches, the air cools, dipping to a crisp 14°C (57°F), making early mornings perfect for game drives.
- September & October: The dryness deepens, and the heat intensifies, with daytime temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F). As October draws to a close, the first rains arrive, offering a refreshing respite from the dust and heat and breathing new life into the park.
Tarangire National Park transforms during the wet season, with afternoon temperatures reaching a comfortable 28°C (82°F) and nights cooling to a pleasant 17°C (63°F).
- November & December: The ‘short rains’ bring life to the landscape, with occasional rainfall from October through December. These unpredictable rains rarely interfere with your plans, as all-day showers are uncommon.
- January & February: A brief dry spell follows the short rains, offering a respite before the heavier rains return, though the timing varies yearly.
- March, April & May: The ‘long rains’ arrive, draping the park in frequent, refreshing showers. While the rain seldom lasts all day, expect more overcast skies. Cold fronts in April and May can usher in cooler temperatures, adding a crisp freshness to the air.
- Live Location
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By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
Tarangire National Park is a gem of the northern safari circuit. It is often explored alongside the legendary Serengeti and the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater. Most adventures begin in the vibrant town of Arusha, the perfect launch point for your journey into the wild.
The most seamless way for international travellers to reach Arusha is by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), just 50km (31 miles) away. Alternatively, you can arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam and connect to either Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
From Arusha, you can choose between a quick flight to Tarangire or a scenic 2-hour drive to the park’s main gate, with only the last 7km (4 miles) on an unpaved road. Tarangire is not just a destination—it’s a gateway. From here, you’re within easy reach of Lake Manyara National Park (100km/60 mi, about 2 hours) and the majestic Ngorongoro Crater (180km/110 mi, about 4 hours).
- Main Park Location
Use Skyscanner for a comprehensive and detailed search to explore flight options and pricing for airlines serving Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).
Domestic Flights
As your tour operator, we typically handle the booking of domestic and charter flights between parks as part of your tour package. However, if you prefer to arrange your own flights to the Tarangire National Park, several local carriers offer domestic options.
Auric Air (Flies to Tarangire, Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Coastal Aviation  (Flies to Tarangire, Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Safari Air Link (Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Air Excel (Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Regional Air (Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Precision Air (Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Flightlink (Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Tropical Air (Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
As Salaam Air (Flies to Arusha Airport and Kilimanjaro Airport)
Please refer to our FAQ—Tanzania page for detailed information regarding passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry requirements.
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
Tarangire National Park stands out as one of the safest destinations for travellers. Crime against tourists is virtually non-existent within Tanzania’s protected areas. While it’s always smart to exercise basic precautions when travelling between parks or through urban regions, such incidents are incredibly rare, particularly on guided safaris. For more insights, please refer to the ‘Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions’ section below.
Before your trip, it’s advisable to update your vaccinations. Consult your healthcare provider or a travel health clinic for personalised guidance. Malaria prevention is also crucial. To minimise the risk of mosquito bites, use mosquito repellent containing DEET, take antimalarial medication, and wear long sleeves and pants in the evening.
Wildlife viewing in Tarangire National Park is exceptionally safe when you follow the expert guidance of your safari guide. Adhering to the park’s rules is crucial to ensuring safety and an awe-inspiring experience for those embarking on a self-drive adventure. Explore the ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ section below for more insights and safety tips.
Discover Tarangire Safari Tours
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Kenya:
Private tour,
Semi-Luxury,
- 12 days
- 6 places
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Kenya:
Private tour,
Mid-Range,
- 12 days
- 6 places
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pp (USD)
Kenya:
Private tour,
Luxury,
- 12 days
- 6 places
