National ParkTarangire National Park
Tanzania’s hidden gem, known for its giants baobabs and elephants
A Tarangire safari offers a quieter but equally rewarding alternative to Tanzania’s headline parks. Just two hours from Arusha, Tarangire National Park is best known for its vast elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, which dominate the landscape, making every game drive unforgettable. The park’s lifeline is the Tarangire River, which flows year-round and attracts wildlife in staggering numbers during the dry season. By August and September, animals from across the region concentrate here, creating one of the highest densities of wildlife outside the Serengeti. Lions, leopards, buffalo, and even wild dogs are seen, while the Silale Swamp provides refuge for elephants, antelope, and countless bird species. In fact, Tarangire is one of the best places in Tanzania for birdwatching, with more than 500 species recorded. For a Tanzania safari itinerary, Tarangire is especially appealing because it allows for variety. Alongside traditional game drives, visitors can try walking safaris in Tarangire and in some lodges, sunrise hot air balloon safaris over the giant baobabs. While it may not host the Serengeti’s massive Great Migration, Tarangire is part of an important migration route, with zebra and wildebeest moving through seasonally. For wildlife, atmosphere, and fewer crowds, Tarangire remains one of Tanzania’s best-kept safari secrets.
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Best time to go to Tarangire National Park
The best time to visit Tarangire is during the dry season (June–October), when the Tarangire River and Silale Swamp draw massive concentrations of wildlife, including the park’s legendary elephant herds. This is also the best period for predator sightings and dramatic game viewing. The green season (November–May) transforms the park into a lush landscape with superb birdwatching and fewer crowds, though wildlife disperses across wider migration routes. For travellers planning a Tanzania safari itinerary, the dry season is ideal for reliable game viewing, while the wet months reward birders and those seeking a quieter safari atmosphere.
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Where to stay in Tarangire National Park
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Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
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