What to know about Tarangire National Park: Tarangire National Park is Tanzania’s National Park lies in the Manyara region known for its stunning and majestic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and iconic baobab trees, The Park originated its name from the Tarangire River crosses. The Park covers an area of approximately 2,850 square Kilometers, it’s part of the larger Tarangire Manyara ecosystem which includes Lake Manyara National Park and surrounding wildlife management areas, Tarangire was established in 1970. The Park has several Attractions and activities offered to its visitors.
A few of the Attractions to talk about include;
Wildlife
Tarangire National Park is famous for its large population of African Elephants during the dry seasons from June to October thousands of elephants migrate to the park in search of water which Identifies it as one of the best majestic destinations to spot these creatures, however not only the park has only Elephants but also has predators like Lions, Leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas where all these can be spotted and also the park Homes other primates like Zebras, Giraffes, Buffaloes among others.
Birds
Park homing over 550 bird species which are recorded within its boundaries, Tarangire is a paradise for Bird watchers. Among the birds in this Park we can talk of yellow collared lovebird, raptors, ostriches, colorful bee-eaters, and others.
Baobab trees
These are iconic features and attractions of Tarangire National Park its towering Baobab trees. These ancient giants dot the landscape while Providing shade for wildlife and serving as a striking backdrop for pictures.
Activities to do in Tarangire National Park
Game drives
Game drives are the primary activity for visitors to Tarangire National Park, offering the opportunity to explore its diverse habitats and observe wildlife up close. Guided game drives are available, led by experienced park rangers and safari guides.
Bird Watching
Tarangire National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with abundant birdlife throughout the year. Birdwatching enthusiasts can embark on guided birding tours to spot a variety of species in different habitats.
Walking Safaris
Some lodges and camps within the park offer walking safaris, allowing visitors to experience the wilderness on foot accompanied by armed guides. Walking safaris provide a more intimate and immersive wildlife experience.
Bird Watching
Bird watching is one of the most popular activities done at Tarangire National Park; here the park records more than 500 bird species which are ideal for most the avian lovers. The park harbors several dry-country bird species at the extremity of their range, such as the northern pied babbler and vulturine guineafowl. On visiting Tarangire you should opt for the wet season which February to March which is preferably the best time for birding in a year. This will definitely reward you an interesting experience of a lifetime.
Night game drives
You may wonder, are night game drives allowed in Tarangire? Well, Night Game Drives are allowed in the park however, not all accommodations offer these tours. Only those that have properly established all the requirements and regulations offered by TANAPA such as Swala and Oliver’s camp are allowed to conduct these drives.
Tarangire Balloon Safaris
Join a hot air balloon Safari over the Tarangire as you soar over the treetops of the park to enjoy an exceptional perspective of wildlife like lions and other wildlife below you at a glance.
Tarangire National Park is accessible by Both road and air, by road from major cities and towns in Tanzania, including Arusha and Moshi. The park’s main entrance is approximately 120 kilometres southwest of Arusha, with well-maintained roads leading to the entrance gates as for visitors seeking quicker and convenient means several airstrips are located near the park, allowing for easy access by chartered or scheduled flights from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and other destinations.
The best time to visit Tarangire National Park.
What to know about Tarangire National Park: 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, you’re required to visit the park 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.
