Northern Circuit
Land of Giants & Ancient Baobabs
Tarangire is defined by two giants — its enormous elephant herds and the ancient baobab trees that stud its rolling landscape. Covering roughly 2,850 km², the park is named after the Tarangire River, whose waters draw huge concentrations of wildlife through the dry months.
Quieter than its famous neighbours, Tarangire rewards visitors with dramatic game viewing and superb birding, all against one of the most photogenic backdrops on the Northern Circuit.
- Some of the largest elephant herds in northern Tanzania
- Iconic, centuries-old baobab trees
- Over 500 recorded bird species — a birder's paradise
- Fewer vehicles than the Serengeti or Ngorongoro
Good to Know
Tarangire at a Glance
Wildlife You May Spot
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (June–October), when animals gather in huge numbers along the Tarangire River.
Size
About 2,850 km² of savannah, seasonal swamps and baobab-dotted ridges.
Famous For
Elephants and baobabs — plus dry-season concentrations that rival the big-name parks.
Getting There
Roughly 2 hours’ drive from Arusha, often the first stop on a Northern Circuit itinerary.
- Elephant
- Lion
- Leopard
- Buffalo
- Giraffe
- Zebra
- Eland
- Fringe-eared oryx
- 500+ bird species
Things to Do
How You'll Explore
Game drives follow the river and swamp edges where wildlife congregates, while guided walks bring the smaller details of the bush — tracks, birds and baobab lore — to life.
- Game-drive safaris along the Tarangire River
- Guided walking safaris
- Birdwatching across woodland and swamp
- Easily combined as a day trip or multi-day circuit
Meet the Elephants of Tarangire
Add this quieter gem to your Northern Circuit — we’ll handle every detail.