Tarangire National Park in Tanzania

Tarangire National Park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, both large and small. While the park has a substantial population of resident animals, some species migrate depending on the season. Common sightings include elephants, giraffes, impalas, warthogs, zebras, wildebeests, dwarf mongooses, and ostriches. Lions and leopards are also present, and on rare occasions, even wild dogs have been spotted. The park is home to over 550 bird species, as well as greater and lesser kudus and oryx.

Located in northern Tanzania, just south of Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park is characterized by its iconic baobab trees, sprawling grassy plains, and large herds of elephants. Often overlooked in favor of the Serengeti, Tarangire offers a more exclusive experience with fewer visitors, making it one of Tanzania’s hidden gems. The park also experiences its own migration, albeit on a smaller scale compared to the famous Serengeti migration.

Elephants are a near-guaranteed sight in Tarangire, alongside large herds of Cape buffalo, Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles, Burchell’s zebras, giraffes, and warthogs. Predators such as lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, jackals, and occasionally African wild dogs hunt these herds.

Tarangire is considered a seasonal park, with the dry season (June to October) being the best time to visit. During the short rains of November and the long rains of April to May, much of the wildlife disperses into the Maasai Steppe. However, as the landscape dries out, animals return to the park, drawn by the life-sustaining waters of the Tarangire River.