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Tarangire Safari Lodge
Tarangire Safari Lodge
Tarangire Safari Lodge
Tarangire Safari Lodge
Tarangire Safari Lodge
Tarangire Safari Lodge
Tarangire Safari Lodge

Tarangire Safari Lodge


3°46’13.0"S 36°1’14.8"E

About Tarangire Safari Lodge

Tarangire Safari Lodge is a substantial family-owned and managed lodge set 10km inside the main gate of Tarangire ...

... National Park. Originally built in 1970, it is the oldest lodge in the park, and its position on the escarpment ridge gives it impressive views over the baobab and acacia woodlands down to the Tarangire River; it also places it in the heart of the park's busiest area.

The size of Tarangire Safari Lodge means it is impersonal compared with some of the smaller bush camps, especially as it is a popular choice with some larger tour groups. However, the lodge is considerably less costly than other options in the park, and so offers a good choice for those on a budget. The tents are basic but comfortable and the atmosphere is relaxed. It has a lovely location with stunning views – but this is a busy area where you'll see a lot of other vehicles and visitors. It is well geared for children, so could be a great option for families on a budget.

Accommodation
40 rooms
Children
Best for 8+
Open
All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Night drive

Night drive

Private activities

Private activities

Tarangire Safari Lodge: Full Report

Safaris visiting Tarangire Safari

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Map

Hadeda Ibis Guided Safari

7 days • 3 locations • 1 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

This great-value safari, in a private 4WD with your own driver-guide, journeys through the stunning landscapes of northern Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley, focusing on its three top national parks.

Visiting Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and 1 other area

US$4,980 - US$6,110 per person

Read more about the Hadeda Ibis Guided Safari

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Traveller reviews of Tarangire Safari Lodge

11 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


95%
11 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
8
Good
3
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
PuchtofromBuffalo

Arrived 13 Feb 2024, 2 nights

"Tarangire Safari Lodge review"

"View from the tent was gorgeous. …" Read Puchto’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Dip & familyfromCardiff

Arrived 30 Jul 2019, 2 nights

"Tarangire Safari Lodge review"

"Beautiful location overlooking Tarangire river. …" Read Dip & family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Marilyn & DuanefromCA

Arrived 30 Jul 2019, 2 nights

"Great location"

"We were in one of the built cottages but thought we were to stay in a tent cottages …" Read Marilyn & Duane’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

D & SfromNZ

Arrived 22 Jun 2019, 2 nights

"Big lodge - great river view "

"The view down to the river outside was great. Plenty of sightings in the park …" Read D & S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

TimfromUSA

Arrived 19 Aug 2018, 2 nights

"The Best Ever"

"This lodge exceeded all expectation. The lodging and rooms were excellent. …" Read Tim’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr SfromBurke

Arrived 20 Sep 2017, 1 nights

"Great location"

"The location is excellent [...] all the tents have a good view …" Read Mr S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Ms JfromWoking

Arrived 14 Dec 2016, 2 nights

"Great stay at the Tarangire Safari Lodge"

"The Tarangire Safari Lodge has the most amazing view overlooking the valley …" Read Ms J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

M familyfromWeybridge

Arrived 28 Jul 2013, 2 nights

"Fantastic view on Tarangire park"

"Mangustes and impalas around out tent. Tents on top of cliffs facing river …" Read M family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs DfromCaymans

Arrived 22 Sep 2012, 4 nights

"Treetops at Tarangire"

"We stayed at Treetops Tarangire. It was super, attention could have not been …" Read Mr & Mrs D’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs PfromOtley

Arrived 25 Sep 2010, 2 nights

"Tarangire Safari Lodge review"

"We really enjoyed the Safari Lodge and its superb view over the river. The …" Read Mr & Mrs P’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Tarangire Safari Lodge reviews

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Tarangire Safari

Click an animal to see our traveller's success in sighting them.
How we work this out.


Buffalo

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Lion

100% success

Wildebeest

75% success

Zebra

75% success

Cheetah

50% success

Eland

50% success

Leopard

25% success

Spotted Hyena

25% success

Aardvark

0% success

Hippo

0% success

Oryx

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Striped Hyena

0% success

Wild dog

0% success

Tarangire Safari Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Tarangire Safari.


When to go to Tarangire National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Tarangire Safari in Tarangire National Park


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Tarangire National Park in January

January marks the start of the short dry season. The Tarangire River becomes a crucial water source, attracting diverse wildlife. Elephants, buffaloes, and zebras congregate around the river and swamps. The iconic baobab trees stand out against the landscape, providing food and shelter for animals. Birdwatching is excellent as resident birds display breeding plumage and migrant species are present.

The Silale and Gurusi swamps teem with hippos and crocodiles. While the southern areas of the park may still be wet, the northern regions offer great game viewing. The Matete Woodlands provide opportunities to spot leopards and rare fringe-eared oryx antelopes. January can offer great value for visitors, with quieter park conditions and variable weather.

  • Variable weather, dry or rainy periods
  • Good for birding, many migrant species present
  • Elephant herds gather near Tarangire River
  • Lush landscapes ideal for photography
  • Quieter after early January rush

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Tarangire National Park in February

February in Tarangire National Park is one of the hottest months, with temperatures reaching around 33°C/91°F. The short dry season continues, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing. The Tarangire River and surrounding swamps become focal points for animal activity. Large herds of elephants, numbering over 3,000, are a major attraction.

The north offers impressive vegetation and birdlife, including large flocks of red-billed quelea birds and various raptors. Birdwatchers will enjoy the park's 550+ species, with northern hemisphere migrants joining resident birds. February is lovely for ballooning, offering unique aerial views of the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife during the cooler morning hours.

  • Hot and dry weather prevails
  • Large elephant herds visible near water sources
  • Excellent time for game drives and safaris
  • Baobab trees stand out in dry landscape
  • Park less crowded, better wildlife viewing

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in February

Tarangire National Park in March

As March arrives in Tarangire, the long rains begin, transforming the landscape. This is an important time for the park's famous baobab trees, which store water in their trunks. While game viewing becomes more challenging due to dispersing wildlife, it's an excellent time for photography as the scenery turns lush and green.

The Tarangire ecosystem, including granitic ridges and river valleys, offers stunning views of the Great Rift Valley. Birdwatching remains rewarding, especially in the swampy floodplains and woodlands. March remains challenging for guided walking safaris, as the vegetation is high and thick.

  • Hot with increasing humidity before rains
  • Wildlife viewing varies as rains approach
  • Quiet park with lower visitor numbers
  • Migratory birds still present in good numbers
  • Balloon safaris offer stunning aerial views

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Tarangire National Park in April

April is the wettest month in Tarangire, with an average of 250mm of rain. The park's landscape is at its lushest, with flowering plants attracting insects and smaller animals. While big game viewing is more challenging due to dense vegetation, it's an excellent time for photographers to capture the vibrant scenery. The Tarangire River and swamps swell, creating picturesque scenes.

Birdwatching remains exceptional, with over 550 species present in the park. Visitor numbers are low, providing a more intimate safari experience.

  • Heavy rains with impressive thunderstorms
  • Some camps closed due to weather conditions
  • Lowest rates and very few other tourists
  • Lush green landscape, but wildlife dispersed
  • Birdwatching excellent for resident species

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Tarangire National Park in May

As May progresses in Tarangire, the long rains begin to taper off. The park's diverse habitats, from woodlands to savannahs, are lush and green. While wildlife viewing can still be challenging due to high grass, patient observers may spot leopards in the Matete Woodlands. The swamps, including Silale and Gurusi, are full of water, attracting numerous bird species.

May is an excellent time for photography, with dramatic skies and verdant landscapes. The Tarangire ecosystem is at its most vibrant, showcasing the park's stunning biodiversity. Visitor numbers remain low, offering peaceful game drives. Cultural visits to nearby Maasai communities provide insights into local traditions and lifestyles.

  • Rains continue, creating dramatic skies
  • Quiet time to visit, avoiding crowds
  • Park lush and green with high grass
  • Wildlife more dispersed, fewer sightings
  • Affordable rates for budget-conscious visitors

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in May

Tarangire National Park in June

June marks the beginning of the dry season in Tarangire. As the landscape starts to dry, wildlife begins to congregate around permanent water sources. The famous Tarangire River becomes a hub of animal activity, attracting diverse species. Elephant herds become more visible as they move towards reliable water supplies.

June is an excellent time for birdwatching, with over 550 species present in the park. The Lemiyon Triangle in the north offers impressive vegetation and birdlife. As the grass starts to shorten, game viewing improves, especially along the Birungi Circuit. June is lovely for balloon safaris, providing breathtaking views of the awakening landscape and wildlife below.

  • Weather transitions from wet to dry
  • Wildlife starts concentrating near water
  • Park still green with some high grasses
  • Visitor numbers increasing gradually
  • Good value with shoulder season prices

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in June

Tarangire National Park in July

July is a prime month for wildlife viewing in Tarangire. As the dry season progresses, large herds of elephants, buffaloes and zebras gather around the Tarangire River and swamps. The park's famous baobab trees stand out against the increasingly arid landscape. Game drives along the Birungi Circuit offer excellent opportunities to spot lesser kudu and massive elands.

Birdwatching remains rewarding, especially around the park's swamps and woodlands. The Matete Woodlands provide good chances to see leopards and rare fringe-eared oryx antelopes. July is perfect for photography, with clear skies and animals congregating at water sources. Guided nature walks provide intimate encounters with the park's flora and fauna. Sundowner game drives offer magical experiences as the African sun sets over the savannah.

  • Dry season begins, excellent wildlife viewing
  • Large elephant herds visible near river
  • Popular time with higher visitor numbers
  • Peak prices due to optimal conditions
  • Guided walks offer intimate wildlife experiences

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Tarangire National Park in August

August in Tarangire offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. The dry season is in full swing, concentrating animals around the Tarangire River and remaining water sources. Large elephant herds, sometimes numbering in the hundreds, are a common sight. The park's swamps, including Silale and Gurusi, attract diverse wildlife.

Birdwatching is excellent, with many species gathering around water bodies. The iconic baobab trees provide a striking backdrop for photography. August is ideal for balloon safaris, offering panoramic views of the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife. Guided nature walks provide intimate encounters with the park's flora and fauna. Cultural visits to nearby Maasai communities offer insights into traditional lifestyles.

  • Dry conditions, animals gather at water sources
  • Excellent general wildlife viewing
  • Busy season with higher visitor numbers
  • Swamps attract diverse wildlife species
  • Night drives reveal nocturnal animals

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Tarangire National Park in September

September is an excellent month to visit Tarangire. As the dry season peaks, wildlife concentrates around remaining water sources, particularly the Tarangire River. Large herds of elephants, wildebeests, and zebras offer spectacular viewing opportunities. The Matete Woodlands and Birungi Circuit provide chances to spot predators like leopards. Birdwatching remains rewarding, with over 550 species in the park.

The landscape, dotted with iconic baobab trees, offers stunning photographic opportunities. September is ideal for guided walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the park's ecosystem up close. Balloon safaris provide breathtaking aerial views of the parched landscape and congregating wildlife.

  • Fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Parks becoming very dry, animals congregate
  • Slightly quieter than peak August period
  • Baobab trees in full leaf, great for photos
  • Higher chances of seeing large predators

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Tarangire National Park in October

October in Tarangire marks the end of the dry season, offering some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The Tarangire River and surrounding swamps become crucial for survival, attracting large concentrations of animals. Elephant herds are particularly impressive during this time. The park's famous baobab trees stand out against the parched landscape. Birdwatching is excellent, with many species congregating around remaining water sources.

October is ideal for photography, with clear skies and abundant wildlife. Balloon safaris provide stunning aerial views of the park's varied landscapes and wildlife. As the month progresses, there's a chance of early rains, bringing new life to the park.

  • Mostly dry with comfortable temperatures
  • Excellent game viewing around water sources
  • Lower visitor numbers than earlier months
  • Balloon safaris offer breathtaking views

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Tarangire National Park in November

November in Tarangire sees the start of the short rains, transforming the landscape. The famous baobab trees begin to flower, creating a lush backdrop. Wildlife starts to disperse as water becomes more widely available, but game viewing remains good. The Tarangire River and swamps continue to attract diverse species. November is excellent for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive, joining the park's 550+ resident species.

As the vegetation greens, photography opportunities abound. Guided nature walks provide insights into the park's changing ecosystem. Cultural visits to nearby Maasai communities offer unique experiences. November can offer great value with shoulder season rates and fewer visitors.

  • Variable weather, chance of rain increasing
  • Parks quieter, prices more affordable
  • Wildlife disperses as rains begin
  • Migratory birds start arriving in the park
  • Green season begins, landscape transforms

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Tarangire National Park in December

December in Tarangire brings a mix of wet and dry conditions. The short rains continue, rejuvenating the landscape. The famous baobab trees are in full leaf, providing shade and food for wildlife. While animals are more dispersed than in the dry season, game viewing remains rewarding. The Tarangire River and swamps continue to attract diverse species.

December is excellent for birdwatching, with migratory birds present alongside resident species. Balloon safaris provide stunning views of the greening landscape. Cultural visits to nearby communities offer insights into local holiday traditions. Despite being a popular time for visitors, especially during the festive season, December can still offer peaceful safari experiences in less-visited areas of the park.

  • Variable weather, mix of dry and rainy days
  • Good game viewing in Tarangire River area
  • Quiet early month, busy during holidays
  • Prices vary from low to peak holiday rates
  • Lush landscapes after early rains

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

Tanzania fact file

Useful information and advice to help you prepare for a trip including Tarangire Safari Lodge


Excursions from Tarangire Safari

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Tarangire Safari. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Lake Manyara Safari

Lake Manyara Safari

Half-day or full-day

Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park makes a great safari destination. Here, along with elephant herds and plains game, you’ll find jungle-like forests that are home to blue monkeys, a soda lake tinged pink by flamingos and some of Tanzania’s best birding.

More about Lake Manyara Safari
85% (48 reviews)
Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway

Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway

Usually one hour

Experience the forest of Lake Manyara National Park from a whole new perspective – high up in the trees. The first suspended walkway in Tanzania, it stretches underneath the canopy for 370m between the mahogany and fig trees, giving intrepid visitors a unique view of the surrounding flora and fauna.

More about Manyara Treetop Walk
75% (4 reviews)

Other lodges in Tarangire National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Oliver's Camp

Oliver's Camp

Oliver's Camp is a small, intimate, luxury tented camp in a great location in northern Tanzania's Tarangire National Park.


96% (63 reviews)
Kuro Tarangire

Kuro Tarangire

Kuro Tarangire is a stylish tented camp, located in a quiet and remote area deep in Tarangire National Park.


98% (24 reviews)
Little Oliver's Camp

Little Oliver's

For a more private version of its sister property, Oliver’s Camp, Little Oliver’s offers high-quality guiding and tented rooms.


98% (18 reviews)
Lemala Mpingo Ridge

Lemala Mpingo Ridge

Lemala Mpingo Ridge is a stylish camp in Tarangire National Park, with a beautiful location and elevated views over the park.


96% (5 reviews)
Tarangire Sopa Lodge

Tarangire Sopa Lodge

Tarangire Sopa Lodge is a large, comfortable, family-friendly hotel in Tarangire National Park, suitable for travellers on a budget.


88% (5 reviews)
Swala Camp

Swala Camp

Swala Camp is a stylish camp for exploring the southern Tarangire, either with a private driver-guide, or using the camp's vehicles and guides.


100% (2 reviews)
Tarangire Treetops

Tarangire Treetops

Tarangire Treetops is a lovely, high-quality lodge on the outskirts of Tarangire National Park, offering game drives, night drives and safari walks.


90% (2 reviews)
Chem Chem

Chem Chem

Chem Chem is a luxury tented lodge on a private concession between Lake Manyara and Tarangire national parks.


100% (2 reviews)
Olkeri Camp

Olkeri Camp

Olkeri is a comfortable tented camp, located in the Randilen Wildlife Management area, bordering Tarangire National Park; ideal for those looking for pristine wilderness.


100% (2 reviews)
Kirurumu Tarangire Lodge

Kirurumu Tarangire

Kirurumu Tarangire Lodge is a simple, small, tented camp positioned just outside the northern boundary of Tarangire National Park.


90% (2 reviews)
Maramboi Tented Camp

Maramboi Tented Camp

Maramboi Tented Camp is a family-friendly tented lodge located between Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park.


100% (2 reviews)
Nimali Tarangire

Nimali Tarangire

Nimali is a small camp built in contemporary style on the outskirts of Tarangire National Park in northern Tanzania.


100% (1 review)
Forest Chem Chem

Forest Chem Chem

Located in the Chem Chem Concession and close to Tarangire National Park, Forest Chem Chem is a high-quality tented camp which is booked on an exclusive basis.


No reviews yet
Little Chem Chem

Little Chem Chem

Little Chem Chem is a stylish option near Tarangire National Park, offering real relaxation combined with a variety of safari activities.


No reviews yet

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