DAY TRIP TO TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
Tarangire National Park - Day Trip
Experience the extraordinary and immerse yourself in the stunning wilderness of Tanzania with a day trip to Tarangire National Park. Known as the “Elephant Sanctuary,” this park offers an exceptional safari experience, featuring a unique landscape filled with ancient baobab trees and one of the highest concentrations of elephants in the country. This detailed itinerary is designed to give you a glimpse of the incredible wildlife and natural beauty that make Tarangire a must-visit destination.
Why Choose Tarangire for a Day Trip?
Located just a few hours’ drive from Arusha, Tarangire is easily accessible for a full-day adventure. The park’s diverse ecosystem, which includes savannah plains, acacia woodlands, and the life-giving Tarangire River, provides a perfect habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. While it’s most famous for its immense elephant herds, you’ll also have the chance to spot lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and a stunning array of birdlife.
The Day Trip Itinerary
Early Morning: The Journey Begins
- 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM: Your adventure starts with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Arusha. As the sun rises, you’ll begin your scenic drive towards Tarangire National Park, a journey of approximately 2-2.5 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through the rugged, beautiful landscapes of the Maasai Steppe, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.
Morning Game Drive: The Active Hours
- 9:00 AM: Arrive at the park and complete the entry formalities. The moment you enter, you’ll be greeted by the sight of towering baobab trees that dot the landscape, creating a truly iconic African scene.
- 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM: Begin your first game drive of the day. The cool morning air is when the animals are most active, offering the best opportunities for sightings. Your experienced driver-guide will navigate the park’s network of routes, focusing on areas known for high wildlife concentrations.
- Highlights: Keep a keen eye out for large herds of elephants making their way to the river. You may also spot graceful giraffes, swift gazelles, and a variety of antelopes. Lions are often seen lounging in the shade of acacia trees or on the riverbanks after a night of hunting. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 550 species recorded.
Mid-Day: Picnic Lunch in the Bush
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: As the midday sun heats up, you’ll find a designated picnic spot with a stunning panoramic view of the park. Enjoy a packed lunch while listening to the sounds of the African bush and keeping an eye out for curious monkeys and other animals. This is a perfect moment to relax, take in the scenery, and recharge for the afternoon.
Afternoon Game Drive: Following the River
- 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: The afternoon game drive focuses on the areas around the Tarangire River, which is the park’s only permanent water source during the dry season (June to October). This is where the magic happens, as thousands of animals—including elephants, wildebeests, and zebras—congregate to quench their thirst.
- Highlights: Witness the awe-inspiring sight of vast herds of elephants digging for water in the sandy riverbed. This is a prime time to see predator-prey interactions. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a leopard camouflaged in the thick branches of a baobab tree.
Late Afternoon: Heading Home
- 4:00 PM: With a camera full of unforgettable moments, you’ll begin your drive out of the park. Take one last look at the magnificent landscape before starting your journey back to Arusha.
6:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Arrive back in Arusha, with a drop-off at your hotel, carrying memories of an incredible day in the Tanzanian wilderness.
What to Expect & What to Bring
- Vehicle: You will travel in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing and photography.
- Guide: A professional, English-speaking driver-guide will be with you throughout the day, sharing their extensive knowledge of the wildlife, landscape, and local culture.
What to Bring: A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable clothing in neutral colors, a camera with extra batteries, and binoculars are highly recommended. A light jacket is also a good idea for the cooler mornings and evenings.
TOUR PRICE
Price Per Person
1 Person $670
2 People $480
3 People $430
4 People $405
5 People $390
6 People $390
7 People $375
INCLUDED IN PRICE
– Park Entrance Fees: Access to Tarangire National Park.
– Transportation: Round-trip transport from your accommodation to the park, often in a comfortable safari vehicle.
– Guide Services: Knowledgeable and experienced safari guide to enhance your experience with wildlife insights and park information.
– Meals: Some packages include lunch and possibly snacks and drinks during the trip.
– Wildlife Viewing: The opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife, particularly elephants, as well as other animals and birds.
EXCLUDED IN PRICE
– Accommodation: Overnight stay costs, it can be arranged for extra if interested.
– Additional Meals: Breakfast and dinner may not be included unless specified.
– Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, snacks, alcoholic drinks, and laundry service.
– Tips: gratuities for youur driver guide and drivers are highly appreciated. A common guideline is around $20 USD per per day for a guide.
– Insurance: Travel or health insurance may need to be arranged separately.