Tarangire National Park:
Tarangire is usually the first destination on many safari circuits. Though most holidaymakers to Tanzania hear about the Serengeti, few know about the beauty of Tarangire; it is a breathtaking gateway to the East African safari adventure. Founded in 1970, the Tarangire National Park is so-named for the river that flows through the park to the north. Upon entering the park through one of the gates, one is greeted by baobab trees that seem to date back to a prehistoric era before striding into a landscape encompassing savannahs, grasslands, and acacia woodlands. In Tarangire, one feels as though they are living a life from another world—one marked by a thousand centuries.The park is known to have one of the largest numbers of elephants in Africa. The park is therefore referred to by two names: the “elephant paradise” and the “home of the baobabs.”
Location & Getting There:
Tarangire is in Manyara region, about 2 hours from Arusha and it's recommended to arrive early to enjoy a full day's game drive.From the park's gate, it is about 1.5 hours to Karatu. By flight, it's 20 minutes from Arusha or 45 minutes from Kilimanjaro. The park is 2,850 sq kilometers in size.
Animals: Elephants, Giraffes, Lions, Cheetahs, Leopards, Hyenas, Waterbuck, DikDik, Impala, Banded Mongoose, Grant's Gazelle, Honeybadger, Vervet Monkey, Olive Baboon, Wildebeest, Zebra, Cape Buffalo
Activities:
Guided game drives through the park's numerous landscapes, walking safaris, night game drives at select lodges
Best Time to Visit Tarangire
Tarangire National Park is interesting in the dry season from late June to October. During this time of the year, huge numbers of thirsty animals are attracted to and congregate around the banks of the Tarangire River. Its southern part, Silale swamp, attracts animals that feed and drink during the dry season.
