Tarangire National Park Day Trip.
Discover the Heart of Tanzania in a Day – Arusha Awaits!
- Arusha
Overview.
Tarangire National Park, located just 118 km southwest of Arusha, is a gem in Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Renowned for its dense population of elephants and its iconic baobab trees, this park offers a unique landscape and a rich diversity of wildlife. Covering about 2,850 square kilometers, Tarangire is a quieter alternative to the more famous Serengeti, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience Tanzania’s wildlife in a more secluded setting. It’s especially vibrant during the dry season (June-October) when thousands of animals gather around the Tarangire River, the only water source in the area, making it a prime location for wildlife viewing.
Your day trip to Tarangire National Park begins early in the morning from Arusha or Moshi. You’ll embark on a scenic drive through Tanzania’s countryside, with rolling landscapes and glimpses of rural life. Upon arrival at the park, you’ll start your game drive with an experienced guide who will lead you to the best spots for wildlife viewing.
Expect to see large elephant herds (some of the largest in East Africa), zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and gazelles. Predators such as lions and leopards are also present, along with a wide variety of bird species, making it a bird-watcher’s paradise. Unique to Tarangire are also sightings of the rare oryx and long-necked gerenuk, species adapted to the arid terrain. Throughout the day, you’ll navigate diverse landscapes, from grasslands to acacia woodlands, and of course, the iconic baobab-studded plains.
Itinerary
5:30 AM – Pick-Up and Departure from Arusha/Moshi
Meet your safari guide early in the morning for pick-up from your hotel or designated location in Arusha or Moshi. Depart for Tarangire National Park, enjoying scenic views of Tanzania’s countryside along the way.
8:30 AM – Arrival at Tarangire National Park
After a comfortable drive, arrive at Tarangire’s main gate. Your guide will handle the entry formalities, and then the adventure begins! Get your cameras ready as you enter the park and start spotting wildlife almost immediately.
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM – Morning Game Drive
Start the morning with a thrilling game drive through the park’s diverse landscapes. Your guide will take you to areas with the best chances of seeing large herds of elephants, as well as other animals like zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and the occasional lion or leopard. You’ll also spot the park’s majestic baobabs, adding to the breathtaking scenery.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM – Picnic Lunch in the Park
Take a break at one of the park’s designated picnic spots. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, with the sounds of birds and animals in the background. This is an excellent time to relax, recharge, and take in the peaceful surroundings.
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM – Afternoon Game Drive
Continue your exploration of Tarangire with a second game drive, focusing on different areas of the park. With luck, you might spot some of the park’s rare residents, like the oryx and the gerenuk, which are adapted to the dry climate. Your guide will share insights into the animals’ behavior and the park’s unique ecosystem.
3:30 PM – Departure from Tarangire National Park
Begin your journey back to Arusha or Moshi, reminiscing about the amazing wildlife encounters and landscapes you’ve experienced.
6:00 PM – Return to Arusha/Moshi
Arrive back in Arusha or Moshi, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or designated drop-off location. Say goodbye to your guide and take with you unforgettable memories of your day in the wild!
Include and Not- Included
What’s Included
- Transportation: Pick-up and drop-off in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle.
- Professional Safari Guide: Knowledgeable guide with expert knowledge of Tarangire’s flora and fauna.
- Park Entry Fees: Tarangire National Park entrance fees.
- Meals: Picnic lunch in the park and bottled water throughout the day.
What to Bring
- Camera and Binoculars: Essential for capturing wildlife and distant sightings.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Tarangire can get quite sunny, so be prepared.
- Comfortable Clothing: Light, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes.
- Insect Repellent: To keep away any pesky insects during your day in the bush.
A Tarangire day trip is ideal for those short on time but eager to experience Tanzania’s incredible wildlife and scenery. With its close proximity to Arusha, diverse landscapes, and rich wildlife, Tarangire National Park promises a true safari experience in just one day. From massive elephant herds to the park’s iconic baobabs, it’s an adventure you’ll never forget.