Overview
Tarangire National Park is found in the Manyara region in Tanzania. It covers an area of about 2,850 sq. km. The most common Tarangire National Park animals are elephants and many other species. Popular Tarangire National Park activities are game viewing, watching birds, and walking safaris.
Elephants top the list of Tarangire wildlife. The park has the largest population of elephants in Tanzania. During the dry season, large herds are seen close to the Tarangire River in search of water. During the wet season, they are found across the park. This makes it very easy to spot them.
Tarangire National Park is home to dry-country antelopes. You can spot long-necked gerenuk and fringe-eared oryx. Other common animals are gazelles, rhinos, impalas, elands, buffalos, kudus, and wildebeests. You can also spot big pythons, wild dogs, and mongoose colonies.
The best time to spot these animals is between June and October. High populations gather around water sources during this season. This makes it easier to spot them. vegetation in the park is also thinner. During the wet season, some animals migrate to other areas in search of grass and water.
Birdlife
Tarangire National Park is a perfect place for watching birds. It has recorded over 550 species. Some of the common species are brown parrots, bee-eaters, Kori bustards, hornbills, and guinea fowl. Birdlife is good across the year in the park. But the best time is between November and April. Northern African and European migratory birds are present during this season.
Scenery
Tarangire River is a beautiful feature in the park. It has acacia shrubs, woodlands, and thick vegetation. The park hosts huge baobab trees. These stunning trees are attractive and home to many species of animals. Also, the park has a network of swamps in the eastern and southern parts. These swamps are home to many birds and animals. Tourists enjoy these sightings through walking safaris.
Climate
Tarangire National Park’s climate is enjoyable and temperate. The dry season is between June and October. Temperatures range between 14°C and 26°C. It is rarely too hot. But early mornings and evenings are cooler. Warm clothes are better for early morning game drives.
The wet season is between November and May. Temperatures range between 16°C and 28°C. This is the warmest period in the park.
FAQs About Tarangire National Park
- Where is Tarangire National Park located?
Tarangire National Park is located in the Manyara region in Tanzania. It is about 70 km from Lake Manyara National Park. From Arusha, the park is 120 km. It is in the northern safari circuit in Tanzania. Its coordinates are 4.0057° S and 35.9788° E. It is easily accessible by road.
- Why visit Tarangire National Park?
Tarangire National Park is home to large herds of elephants. It is perfect for viewing many other species of wildlife. Game drives and walking safaris give tourists a real wilderness experience. The park is also near other great destinations such as Lake Manyara National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.
- Which is the best time to visit Tarangire National Park?
The best time to visit Tarangire National Park is between June and October. This is the high season of tourism in Tanzania and East Africa. The park is usually full of visitors. Large herds of animals are found close to the Tarangire River. Elephants are present in huge numbers. Vegetation is thinner making it easier to spot most of the animals in the park. But the wet season is the best time to see migratory birds.
- How to get to Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park is easily accessible. It is the northern safari circuit. It is easy to get there by road. Safaris start from Arusha town. It takes about 2 hours to drive from Arusha to the park. Air transport is a more convenient way to get there. From the international airport, tourists fly to Arusha Airport and then enjoy a drive to the park.