Tanzania: Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park, spanning 2850 km² along the Tarangire River, is renowned for its abundant elephant herds along the riverbanks.

Migratory wildebeest, buffaloes, zebras, and impalas gather around diminishing lagoons. Distinct from larger parks, Tarangire shelters unique species like oryx, and fortunate visitors may catch a glimpse of the famed tree-climbing python.

The river serves as the sole permanent water source, sustaining diverse wildlife. During dry spells, the concentration of animals rivals that of the Ngorongoro Crater, making Tarangire a vital haven for wildlife in an ever-changing landscape.

The Giants

Tarangire National Park is especially famous for 2 giants. Namely the elephants and baobab trees.

Due to the presence of the Tarangire River, large herds of elephants like to stay in the park together with migratory animals such as wildebeest, buffaloes, zebras and impalas.

The 2nd giants you will frequently see are the iconic Baobab Trees, known for their distinctive swollen trunks and unique silhouette. These ancient giants, scattered across the landscape, add a surreal touch to the park’s scenery.

Birdlife

Tarangire National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 550 bird species. Among them are colorful residents like the lilac-breasted roller, superb starling, and yellow-collared lovebird.

Migratory birds flock to the park during the dry season, including the kori bustard and yellow-throated sandgrouse.

The park’s diverse habitats, from grasslands to riverine forests, provide a rich tapestry for birdlife, offering enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to observe a plethora of avian species in their natural habitat.

Tree Climbing Pythons

You may consider yourself fortunate when you manage to spot one of the elusive tree-climbing pythons in Tarangire National Park, a rare spectacle in the wild. These serpents, unlike their ground-dwelling counterparts, skillfully ascend the branches of trees.

The behavior of the tree-climbing python is extraordinary, as it showcases its remarkable adaptation to the diverse and enchanting ecosystem of Tarangire.