Tarangire National Park is the sixth largest national park in Tanzania located about 68 miles southwest of Arusha town. It is famous for its high density of elephants and baobab trees. During the dry season, which is from June to November, large herds of migratory elephants, wildebeest, zebras, and buffalo congregate in the banks of the Tarangire River. Resident animals include giraffe, waterbuck, impala, eland, gazelle, vervet monkey, mongoose, baboon, lion, leopard, and cheetah. The park is haven to bird watchers being it home to more than 500 species of birds. Aside from picturesque baobab trees scattered in the park, termite mounds also dot the landscape.

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Wildlife viewing in Tarangire range from fair to excellent throughout the year. The best time to visit the park is during the dry season, which falls on the months of June to October. There is little rainfall and animals from surrounding areas migrate into the park to access water. Vegetation thins out and animals tend to congregate around rivers and watering holes, making wildlife easier to spot. It is high season from June to August and the park could be crowded with tourists, so it's best to schedule game drives in the early morning or late afternoons. The weather is warm and beautiful during the day, but game drives could be cold in the early morning so it's best to pack warm clothing for your safari.

 

You may also enjoy the park during the months of November to May when vegetation is lovely and full. This is the prime time for bird watching since migratory birds are present. This is wet season and there is lesser number of mammals inside the park compared to dry season. Wildlife viewing is fair to good during these months. And you may enjoy a quieter park with less crowds. Rates for lodges and tented camps are also lower. 
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