Tarangire National Park sits in northern Tanzania, roughly 2 to 2.5 hours south west of Arusha, and is known for the densest elephant herds in the country and landscapes dotted with ancient baobab trees. The dry season from June to October pulls large numbers of animals to the Tarangire River, the park’s only permanent water. It anchors the northern safari circuit alongside Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti.
This page introduces the park and everything that makes it special — from its elephant herds and iconic trees to its ecosystem, wildlife and essential facts. Explore each theme in depth using the guides below.
If you are planning a longer trip, our Tanzania safaris bring the main parks together in one itinerary.
What Is Tarangire Famous For
The giant elephant herds, ancient baobabs and the life-giving Tarangire River that together make this one of Tanzania’s most distinctive parks.
Tarangire Elephant Herds
Home to some of the largest elephant concentrations in Tanzania — hundreds gather along the river through the dry season.
Tarangire Baobab Trees
The park’s iconic, centuries-old baobabs dot the plains and give Tarangire its unmistakable silhouette.
Tarangire Ecosystem
A river-fed dryland of swamps, floodplains and woodland that draws wildlife from across the wider migration corridor.
Animals In Tarangire
Elephants, lions, leopards, giraffe and zebra roam alongside more than 550 recorded bird species.
Tarangire National Park Facts
Key facts, figures and background on Tanzania’s sixth-largest national park, at a glance.