One of the smaller parks in Tanzania, Tarangire is a breath of fresh air to the Tanzania safari adventurer. Situated within 40,000 acres of private wilderness in northern Tanzania, the Tarangire ecosystem is home to the second-highest concentration of wildlife of any Tanzania National Park after the Serengeti. It also has one of the most prolific elephant populations in all of East Africa. Herds of up to 300 elephants congregate to drink from its small rivers and scratch the terrain surface for underground streams. The big cats live bountifully here, sustained by larger masses of wildebeest, buffalo, impala, zebra, and gazelle. Additionally, more than 450 bird species congregate around the park’s lagoons. Indeed, many Ker & Downey visitors say that Tarangire National Park is the best bird watching destination in all of Tanzania.
Despite this surprising strength of wildlife, Tarangire National Park remains one of the most underrated and least visited parks in Africa. This is most likely due to the trumpeting popularity of its Serengeti and Ngorongoro neighbors. However, Ker & Downey believes it deserves a lot more consideration. Spend days here on game drives and exploring the area on foot. Walking safaris are a relatively new feature within Tarangire National Park. They are spectacular opportunities to experience the authentic, gilded romance of the constantly changing safari park. Ker & Downey’s professional guides lead you into the bush to learn how to track various animals and observe their natural behavior up close. Expert naturalists are also on hand to find a resident lion pride and explain the individual characteristics and habits of each pride member.
But resident wildlife only tells half of Tarangire’s story. The vast groves of epic baobabs are reason enough to visit. The abundant sun-blistered termite mounds and grassy savannah plains also add to its allure. The Tarangire River, for which the park is named, splits the park. The river's steep, meandering riverbanks are particularly wildlife-ridden during the dry season. There is nothing quite like venturing back in time on a drive or walk through this breathtaking landscape of Tarangire. Stop for a sundowner along the river while the elephants roam the plains. In the distance, the lions emit their mighty roars, and the zebras herald in the conclusion of the day. A Tanzania safari in Tarangire National Park is sure to leave a lasting mark.
Little Chem Chem
Nicknamed the "Sunrise Camp" for its beautiful early morning sunrises, the intimate camp of Little Chem Chem sits on the edge of Tarangire National Park. An acacia forest, the Babati mountain range, and the hills of Tarangire in the distance create a stunning backdrop for the elegant camp. It overlooks Lake Burunge where animals and colorful birds come for a cool drink of water.
Little Chem Chem exudes an authentic “Out of Africa” atmosphere. Tents include large bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms, a dressing area, and bucket showers. Outside, each tent at Little Chem Chem has its own fire pit to warm you on cool African nights as you listen to the sounds of the bush come to life. Each morning breakfast is delivered to your tent for you to enjoy inside or at the fire pit. In the evening, enjoy dinners in the dining tent or with a fire pit under a tree.
Spend the days at Little Chem Chem on game drives seeking out wildlife and exploring the area on foot. Experienced guides lead you on walking safaris where you learn how to track various animals. Meanwhile, early morning game drives are rewarding with a stop for tea while the sun rises over Lake Manyara.
Oliver's Camp
Oliver's Camp is located in the middle of the Tarangire National Park amid dense game populations and unparalleled scenery. The camp overlooks Ngorongoro, the Great Rift Valley, and Lake Manyara in addition to Tarangire, making it an excellent location for learning about the delicate ecosystem of the park while enjoying the breathtaking beauty found in Tanzania. Tents at Oliver’s Camp feature solid wood furnishings and wonderful décor. Each has en suite bathrooms with flush toilets and open-air showers from which to enjoy the stunning Tarangire sky.
While game drives are a large part of the experience at Oliver’s Camp, the property is most well known for its walking safaris. For many years walking was not allowed in Tarangire. However, the camp has taken full advantage of the park authorities’ decision to allow excursions on foot. Your guide and ranger will assure that you will be very safe as the point of a walking safari is not to disturb the animals, but to be able to observe their natural behavior. Walking is usually done in the mornings for half the day, but longer excursions can be arranged.
Kuro
Located in the heart of the park, Kuro is an intimate camp that offers unparalleled access to the raw beauty of the African wilderness. Designed to blend harmoniously with the environment, light streams in to fill each thatch and canvas tent. Meanwhile, en-suite bathrooms with hot water add a touch of creature comfort. Plush linens on wooden beds, elegant furnishings, and cozy rugs create a serene ambiance.
The park's diverse habitats, ranging from riverine forests to open savannahs, provide a dynamic and ever-changing backdrop for a Tanzania safari. Elephants can often be seen roaming the plains near the camp. Explore Tarangire National Park with experienced safari guides who have an intimate knowledge of the park's flora and fauna. Walking safaris offer a thrilling opportunity to explore the bush on foot, gaining a closer perspective on the smaller details of the ecosystem.
A Tanzania Safari in Tarangire National Park
Explore Tarangire National Park on an African safari in Tanzania with Ker & Downey. Our designers customize each itinerary to your desires and preferences. Contact us to start planning your luxury Tanzania safari. In the meantime, follow us on social media for daily travel inspiration.