When you think of a Tanzania safari, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater often take the spotlight—but Tarangire National Park quietly stands as one of the most breathtaking wildlife destinations in Africa. If you’re starting your adventure from Zanzibar, Tarangire is an essential stop on your journey into Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit.
Why Tarangire Is Known as the “Elephant Paradise”
Tarangire is home to one of the highest concentrations of elephants in East Africa. During the dry season (June to October), herds numbering in the hundreds gather along the Tarangire River, the park’s life source. Watching these gentle giants bathe, play, and graze beneath ancient baobab trees is an unforgettable experience.
Beyond elephants, Tarangire hosts an extraordinary diversity of wildlife—lions lounging under acacias, graceful giraffes browsing treetops, zebras and wildebeest marching across golden plains, and elusive leopards stalking from the shadows. Bird lovers will also find paradise here, with over 550 recorded species.
Getting from Zanzibar to Tarangire
Your journey begins in Zanzibar, where you can fly directly to Arusha—the safari gateway of northern Tanzania. From there, Tarangire is just a few hours’ drive away, making it a perfect first stop on your mainland safari. Whether you choose a 3-Day Northern Circuit Safari, 4-Day Tarangire and Ngorongoro Safari, or a 7-Day Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro Luxury Safari, Tarangire’s magic sets the tone for the adventure ahead.
The Experience: What Awaits You
Baobab Wonderland: The park’s landscape is dotted with massive baobab trees, some centuries old, creating one of the most iconic views in Tanzania.
Elephant Encounters: Witness large herds of elephants—often with adorable calves—up close in their natural habitat.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Compared to the Serengeti, Tarangire offers a more intimate, less crowded safari experience.
Photographer’s Dream: Golden sunsets, dusty elephant trails, and dramatic skies make Tarangire a visual masterpiece.
Why Tarangire Completes Your Zanzibar Safari
While Zanzibar offers beaches, spice tours, and cultural charm, Tarangire delivers raw, untamed Africa. Combining the two gives travelers the perfect balance—relaxation and adventure, ocean and savannah.
Recommended Tours
To make the most of your journey, explore our curated safari experiences that begin right from Zanzibar:
3-Day Northern Circuit Safari from Zanzibar
4-Day Tarangire & Ngorongoro Safari from Zanzibar
7-Day Luxury Serengeti, Tarangire & Ngorongoro Safari
Each tour is designed to make your transition from the turquoise waters of Zanzibar to the wild landscapes of Tarangire seamless and unforgettable.
Tarangire isn’t just a park—it’s a place where nature breathes deeply, elephants roam freely, and Africa reveals her quieter, more intimate soul.