Tarangire National Park, located in northern Tanzania about 120 km (75 miles) southwest of Arusha, is a scenic and wildlife-rich reserve covering approximately 2,850 square kilometers. Named after the Tarangire River that winds through its heart, the park becomes a vital refuge for animals during the dry season (June to October), when water sources elsewhere dry up—drawing massive concentrations of wildlife. It is especially renowned for its huge elephant herds, often seen in groups of 100 or more, and its landscape is defined by sweeping savannahs, giant baobab trees, and seasonal wetlands.

Alongside elephants, the park hosts zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, buffaloes, elands, impalas, warthogs, and rarer species like the fringed-eared oryx and gerenuk. Predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and even the African wild dog are also found here. With over 550 bird species, including the yellow-collared lovebird, ashy starling, and Kori bustard, it is a premier destination for birdwatchers. Tarangire is part of the larger Tarangire-Manyara ecosystem, supporting seasonal wildlife migrations and offering important conservation value.

Compared to Tanzania’s more famous parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, Tarangire is less crowded, providing a quieter, more intimate safari experience, particularly attractive for photographers, families, and seasoned wildlife enthusiasts. The park also offers walking safaris, cultural visits to nearby Maasai and Barabaig communities, and a range of accommodation options from luxury lodges to budget campsites.