Tarangire National Park is best known for very large elephant herds and for ancient baobab trees standing over the Tarangire River. In the dry season, from June to October, the river is the only water for miles and the concentration of wildlife along it rivals anywhere on the northern circuit, with far fewer vehicles than the Serengeti or the crater. It is about two hours by road from Arusha, which makes it an easy first or last stop on a safari, or a full day trip.
Last reviewed 9 November 2026
When to visit Tarangire
| When | What to expect |
|---|---|
| June – October | Dry season and the best time. Elephants, zebra, wildebeest and buffalo gather along the river, followed by lion and leopard. |
| November – May | Wet season. Many animals disperse out of the park, but it is green, quiet and excellent for birds. |
Wildlife you can expect
Getting there
Tarangire is on the road from Arusha towards Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, so most northern-circuit safaris begin or end here. It also works well as a day trip from Arusha.
How long to stay
A full day covers the river area well. Add a night if you can: the late-afternoon and early-morning drives are the most rewarding, and the park is quieter than the Serengeti.
Questions travelers ask
Is Tarangire worth visiting?
Yes, especially from June to October. It has some of the largest elephant herds in Tanzania and far fewer vehicles than the Serengeti or the Ngorongoro Crater.
How far is Tarangire from Arusha?
About two hours by road, which is why it is the usual first stop on a northern-circuit safari and a popular day trip.
Tarangire or Lake Manyara: which should I choose?
In the dry season, Tarangire for the elephants and the sheer density of game. Lake Manyara is smaller and greener, with forest, birdlife and the lake, and it works best as a short visit on the way to the crater.
Safaris that visit Tarangire
Tarangire National Park Day Trip
3-Day Standard Lodge Safari
4-Day Tanzania Camping Safari
5-Day Tanzania Camping Safari
5-Day Budget Safari Adventure
