Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is located in northeast Tanzania, about 118 kilometers southwest of Arusha. Covering around 2,850 square kilometres, it is named after the Tarangire River flowing through it. The park is well-known for its diverse wildlife, especially its large elephant population, including impressive tuskers. It is easily accessible and is an integral part of Tanzania's northern safari circuit. Tarangire is also famous for baobab trees. It stands out for its high density of animals per square kilometre compared to other Tanzanian national parks.

While not as grand as the Great Migration in Serengeti Park, Tarangire is known for wildlife migrations, including wildebeests, elephants, gazelles, zebras, hartebeests, and buffaloes moving to the Tarangire River. This yearly migration attracts predators and bird enthusiasts. The unique landscape, dotted with ancient baobabs and acacia trees, provides a picturesque backdrop for game drives. Tarangire is also a home for the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Besides them, the park hosts a diverse range of wildlife and over 500 bird species.

Beyond the wildlife, Tarangire National Park boasts a serene and less crowded environment compared to some of Tanzania's more famous parks. This tranquility enhances the safari experience, allowing for more intimate encounters with nature. The park’s swamps and rivers sustain a vibrant ecosystem that supports over 550 bird species, making it one of the best birding destinations in East Africa. Seasonal changes bring dramatic variations in scenery, with lush greenery during the rainy season and golden hues during the dry months.

Accommodations in and around Tarangire range from luxury lodges to tented camps, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers. The local cuisine, often featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, provides a delightful culinary experience. With its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and tranquil atmosphere, Tarangire National Park offers a quintessential African safari experience, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Entry Fees to Tarangire National Park:
Park Entry Fee:
Peak Season:
EAC: Adult – TSH 10,000, Child – TSH 2000
Resident: Adult – $25, Child - $7.5
Non-EAC: Adult - $50, Child - $15
Low Season:
EAC: Adult – TSH 10,000, Child – TSH 2000
Resident: Adult – $22.5, Child - $7.5
Non-EAC: Adult - $45, Child - $15

Special Activities:
Walking Safaris:
Short walks for adults(1 to 2 hours): EAC – TSH 5000, Residents - $20, Non-EAC - $20
Short walks for children: EAC – TSH 2500, Residents: $10, Non-EAC - $10
Long Walks for adults (above 4 hours): EAC – TSH 10000, Residents - $25, Non-EAC - $25
Long Walks for children: EAC – 5000, Residents - $15, Non EAC - $15

Night Game Drive:
EAC: Adult – TSH 10,000, Child – TSH 5,000
Resident: Adult - $50, Child - $25
Non-EAC: Adult – 50, Child - $25
Crew Fee Per Person Per Day (guides, porters, campers, driver guides, and cooks): TSH 3,500
Balloon Operation Fees (per person per trip): $40

Entrance Gates to Tarangire National Park:
Tarangire National Park has three entrance gates:
1. Tarangire Main Gate: This is the primary entrance and is closest to the central and northern regions of the park, which are renowned for their high density of wildlife, especially elephants. The gate is located about 115 kilometres (71 miles) southwest of Arusha city.
2. Lodoare Gate: Situated to the east of the park, Lodoare Gate provides access to the eastern region. It is approximately 75 kilometres (46 miles) southeast of Arusha.
3. Matete Gate: This gate is located to the southwest of the park and gives entry to the southwestern area, characterized by vast baobab-dotted plains. Matete Gate is about 140 kilometres (87 miles) southwest of Arusha.