Tarangire National Park - A Hidden Gem of Tanzania's Wilderness
Welcome to Tarangire National Park, a place where ancient baobab trees stand sentry over vast savannahs and the Tarangire River weaves through the landscape, creating a haven for diverse wildlife. Join us on a safari through this hidden gem, where every moment is an encounter with the untamed beauty of nature:
Tarangire is a surprise. In the shadow of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, tourists often make the mistake of skipping this lovely park. But what they are missing is an astonishing display of both flora and fauna. Tarangire National Park is famous for its great herds of elephants. During the peak months of the dry season visitors can expect to see the largest concentration (3,000) of these wonderful creatures in the world.
In fact, Tarangire boasts the 2nd highest concentration of wildlife of any Tanzanian park. More than 700 lions live here, and you’ll often spot them on safari drives. Other big cats here are leopards and cheetahs supported by vast herds of zebras, wildebeest, buffalo and giraffe amongst many other grazers.
During the dry season the safaris here are unmatched. It’s also one of Tanzania’s finest spots for bird watching. But the wildlife is only half of Tarangire’s story for the park’s other singular attraction is the great stands of baobab trees that dot its grassy savannahs. These hefty trees with their short, thick branches tower up from the ground like guardians over the African plains.
The baobab can grow as tall as 30 m (98 ft) and live to be 1000 years old. It is surely one of Africa’s most iconic images. So too are the termite mounds found here – great humps rising from the plains – a bizarre landscape formation engineered by the smallest of wildlife.
When the mounds are abandoned, a new tenant moves in… that of the dwarf mongoose. Supplying sustenance to the park is the Tarangire River which is a dependable draw for the reserve’s many inhabitants. During the dry season, the game viewing is reliable and active around this ever-present water source.
But in this park, overflowing with the rhythms of nature, there is a surprising feeling of calm. Though there is much wildlife in Tarangire, most safari-goers pass skip this small vibrant reserve in favor of the big-name destinations.
But this only creates a quiet safari experience amidst all the abundance. That is the true value of Tarangire Park. Here in this small, prized park you can experience some of the best game drives in Africa, far from the crowds… of tourists.
What you could do
1. Elephant Paradise: A Majestic Gathering
Tarangire is renowned for hosting one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa. Witness these gentle giants as they traverse the park, creating a captivating scene against the backdrop of ancient baobab trees. Tarangire provides a unique opportunity for up-close encounters with elephants and the chance to observe their social interactions in the wild.
3. Baobab Wonderland: Land of Ancient Giants
Marvel at the iconic baobab trees that dot the Tarangire landscape. These ancient giants, also known as the “Tree of Life,” provide not only a scenic backdrop but also serve as important landmarks for both wildlife and visitors. Capture the surreal beauty of these trees silhouetted against the African sky, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
5. Off-the-Beaten-Path Safari: Serenity Amidst Nature
Compared to some of Tanzania’s more famous parks, Tarangire offers a more secluded and intimate safari experience. Enjoy the tranquility of the park, with fewer crowds allowing for a deeper connection with nature. The vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems make every moment in Tarangire a peaceful escape into the wild.
2. Diverse Wildlife: Beyond Elephants
While elephants take center stage, Tarangire is also home to a rich variety of wildlife. Spot lions lounging in the shade, herds of wildebeest and zebras grazing on the plains, and the elusive leopard lurking in the trees. The park’s biodiversity, including over 500 bird species, ensures that every game drive is a wildlife enthusiast’s delight.
4. Tarangire River: Lifeblood of the Park
The Tarangire River serves as the lifeblood of the park, attracting a myriad of animals seeking water during the dry season. Settle in for a tranquil riverside picnic or take a guided walking safari along the riverbanks to witness the diverse birdlife, crocodiles, and hippos that call this watercourse home.