Game Drives and Walking Tours
The primary activity in Tarangire is game driving. However, if you’re staying outside the park, you might also enjoy walking tours and night safaris. Currently, Oliver’s Camp organizes walking tours and fly camping safaris. Night game drives are allowed in the park, but only accommodations meeting TANAPA’s requirements, such as Swala and Oliver’s Camp, can conduct these walks.
Tarangire Balloon Safaris
For a unique perspective, you can join a hot air balloon ride over Tarangire. Soar over the treetops and witness wildlife like lions and ungulates from above, creating an exceptional safari experience.
Birding in Tarangire National Park
Birding is a common activity in Tarangire, allowing enthusiasts to spot various bird species in the park’s diverse habitats.
The best time to visit Tarangire depends on your interests. The dry season from June to October is perfect for elephant and wildlife viewing as animals gather at the river. If you’re a birding enthusiast, November to March is ideal. The wet season transforms the landscape into lush greenery, adding to the park’s beauty.
Tarangire National Park is part of the popular Northern safari circuit, often visited alongside Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. Most safaris start from the town of Arusha. The easiest way to get there is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is 50km/31mi from Arusha. Alternatively, you can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam and then to Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
There are regular flights from Arusha and Serengeti to Tarangire, but driving is also a good option. The drive from Arusha to the park entrance gate takes about 2 hours, with only the last 7km/4mi being untarred. From there, it’s an easy drive to Lake Manyara National Park (100km/60mi in about 2 hours*) or the Ngorongoro Crater (180km/110mi in about 4 hours*).