Tarangire National Park
Lose the crowds and find yourself in Tarangire National Park. Wedged between the Masai Steppe and the lakes of the Great Rift Valley, this gem can be found off the popular beaten track, not far from the northern Tanzania Safari Circuit.
The River Tarangire is the life-force of the region. Flowing all year round, it provides sustenance to the abundant fauna and flora, before ending its journey in Lake Burungi. Swamplands become grassy plains during the dry season, and the woodlands and aquatic forest provide respite from the African heat for the animals. Wildebeest, elephants, zebras, buffaloes, hartebeest, and gazelles graze on grasses and trees, while lion, hyenas, leopards and cheetah roam the land, drinking at the same waterholes as their prey, and waiting for opportunity to strike.
Known for its giant herds of elephant – several herds have more than 300 elephants – the park spans 2600km2. Over 545 species of birdlife fly in the skies and nest in the trees within the park, making it a paradise for twitchers. Tarangire has the second highest population of wildlife, second to the Serengeti.
An undeniable main attraction of Tarangire is the baobab trees – some are said to be 1000 years old! If these trees could impart their ancient wisdom, what do you think they might tell us?
