Tarangire National Park is situated in the northern part of Tanzania, it is one of the lesser-known conservation areas but one of the most highlighted ecosystems of the country, it is underrated and mostly shadowed by the Serengeti National Park, but for travelers who visit the destination they get to be surprised by how much they can see while in the protected conservation area, it is home to large herds of African elephants, these roam the Savannah grassy lands and along the river Tarangire after which the park is named, the river is a permanent source of water even during the dry season.
Tarangire National Park covers an area space of approximately 2,600 square kilometres, itis comprised of grasslands, thick acacia bushes, savannah baobab trees and sausage trees, these act as home to wildlife species including the so-called big five of the wilderness, animals like elephants, giraffes, warthogs, lesser and greater kudus, cheetahs, impalas, gazelles, long-necked gerenuk, hartebeests, and different bird species are present, these are best seen when doing tourist activities in Tarangire national park as below.
Game drives are the major tourist activity of the national park, these are conducted in sessions in the morning, afternoon and evening times, it is one of the few places in Tanzania where doing night game drives is allowed in search of nocturnal species, Game drives are done using 4*4 wheel car with an open rooftop to enhance the guest experience with animal views, the well-distributed trails of the ecosystem lead you to great wildlife points routes like along the river Tarangire, Gursi and Lamarku routes, game drives are best recommended in the early morning when animals are most active, the predators are out there to hunt while other species are out to graze, the run of animals sets the whole field on a busy schedule and impressive to encounter.
Bird watching in Tarangire National Park, there are over 500 species of birds that have been recorded in the national park, it is one of the best destinations to go birding the park receives many migratory species from neighbouring countries, expect to see birds like Ashy starling, yellow collared love bird, pygmy flacon, Abyssinian ground hornbills, ostrich, kori bustard, African grey flycatcher, pied barber, among others, birds of Tarangire are best experienced during the wet season, it is a fruiting time and receives more migratory species.
Nature walks in Tarangire National Park, are guided by an experienced game ranger and guide who will protect you from wild animals, walks allow you to get to experience wildlife up close, these are best done in the morning or evening hours except to see colourful butterflies, birds, and relax as you take a walk through the wilderness.
Visit the Masaai people, these are the original natives of the region, they present a raw untouched culture, a visit to the local communities will allow you to learn so much about the people of Tanzania, their homesteads, way of living and foods, they present themselves through dance and traditional songs.
In conclusion, Tourism activities in Tarangire National Park are best done during the dry season between the months of December-February and June- September when the trails are much drier and easier to access.