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Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge

Lemala Mpingo Ridge


3°52’14.0"S 36°1’40.6"E

About Lemala Mpingo Ridge

High upon a ridge above the Tarangire valley, Lemala Mpingo Ridge offers peace, comfort and excellent service.

The lofty location of Lemala Mpingo Ridge means a commanding view over Tarangire National Park. Cooling breezes blow up from the savannah by day whilst the haunting call of the hyena echoes out at night.

One of the few lodges where space, comfort, attention to detail and delicious fare combines to tear you away from Tarangire’s rich wildlife to just savour the experience. Float at the edge of the infinity pool and survey the scene below, linger over a delicious meal, luxuriate in the bath on your private deck, curl up with a holiday read on your sunken sofa or work out the knots with a massage in the spa atop a rocky outcrop – all good reasons to stay an extra day!

15 expansive tented suites laid out on either side of the ridge face sunrise or sunset. A modern safari style offers understated luxury and gently billowing curtains enclose large beds. Maximising natural light and air flow, the main building offers a variety of seating areas. Take an expertly mixed cocktail, select your spot and relax as the sun sets behind you, throwing a glow over the valley below.

Our view

We love the wonderful views from the lofty location of Lemala Mpingo Ridge. It is a well thought out, modern take on safari style, with a good level of luxury, and excellent service to match. Its setting does mean it is about a fifteen-minute drive down to the higher density game drive areas flanking the Tarangire River, but there’s often a range of wildlife to see on route. This camp will really suit travellers looking for a smart lodge with comfortable accommodation and a high-quality experience, inside Tarangire National Park.

Claire Scott

Claire Scott

Tanzania expert

Accommodation

15 rooms

Children

Best for 10+

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

Traveller reviews of Lemala Mpingo Ridge

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


96%
5 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
4
Good
1
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mrs SchwambfromUSA

Arrived 26 Sep 2023, 2 nights

"Lemala Mpingo Ridge review"

"lovely resort in the middle of the bush! …" Read Mrs Schwamb’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr & Mrs SfromPeyia,

Arrived 10 Jul 2023, 2 nights

"Lemala Mpingo Ridge review"

"Superb views looking out from the tented lodges …" Read Mr & Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

ChrisfromGermany

Arrived 7 Mar 2021, 3 nights

"Lemala Mpingo Ridge review"

"I would definitely come again …" Read Chris’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

MandolinfromSurrey

Arrived 12 Nov 2020, 3 nights

" Mpingo Ridge, Nanyukie and Kuria Hills"

"The suites were all lovely; spacious and comfortable …" Read Mandolin’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr D.fromCambridge

Arrived 5 Sep 2019, 2 nights

"Lemala Mpingo Ridge review"

"A wonderful location, superb accommodation …" Read Mr D.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Lemala Mpingo Ridge reviews

Safaris visiting Lemala Mpingo Ridge

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


Map

Dik Dik Safari

12 days • 4 locations • 2 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Combine safari with peace and relaxation on Zanzibar’s white-sand shores during this exploration of Tanzania. Stay in three high-quality sister camps within Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park before concluding with a stay on Michamvi Peninsula.

Visiting Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and 2 other areas

US$9,920 - US$15,130 per person

Read more about the Dik Dik Safari

Lemala Mpingo Ridge: Our full report

Opened in July 2018, Lemala Mpingo Ridge is one of Tarangire National Park’s newer camps.

It is set on a high ridge with elevated views across the valley below from every aspect of the camp. Impressive rooms, infinity swimming pool, attention to detail, excellent service and delicious meals make this a luxurious base from which to explore.

Spread along the hillside overlooking the national park, Lemala Mpingo Ridge has 15 suites, of which one is a two-bedroom family suite. Half sit on the eastern side of the ridge, with views of the sunrise, and the other half face west – towards the sunset. In size and style, though, all are identical. Despite the canvas walls, the suites feel very solid, and are markedly different from a traditional safari tent. Contemporary design, with neutral tones, blends with traditional fabrics, beaded wall hangings, woven rugs and wicker lightshades, to create an elegant and stylish feel that retains a sense of connection to the natural surroundings.

The suites are very spacious, and certainly have the “wow” factor. The central super-king-size or twin beds are draped in billowing cream fabric, tied back to the four posts during the day. There’s a useful dressing area behind the bed and a lounge furnished with an armchair and cosy sofa. Amenities include a fan, minibar, and tea and coffee facilities. The equally large en-suite bathroom, with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries provided, comes with twin rough-hewn stone basins, a rain shower and a free-standing bathtub with views over the park. A door leads to an outdoor shower, which is wonderfully refreshing after a long game drive.
Each room has a large private deck with a small table and chairs, an inspired sunken sofa and a second free-standing bath – perfect for an indulgent soak!

The main areas of Mpingo Ridge feature the same contemporary style with a natural feel as the rooms, A large lounge, filled with natural light, features a beautiful exposed stone wall at one and is laid out with a variety of seating areas. The well-stocked bar is a friendly gathering place for sundowner drinks and snacks. Meals can be enjoyed in the dining room or on the large curved deck. The location and large windows make the most of the memorable views. End the evening with a nightcap around the campfire below the main deck.

A short walk down from the central area is a T-shaped infinity pool, which is a great spot for a swim during the heat of the day. This is surrounded by a number of loungers, and conveniently also has its own toilet and shower.

There’s also a souvenir shop stocked with a variety of items more unique than those found in most curious shops such as beaded belts, locally made jewelry, interesting bags and wonderful pictures.

Nestled between the boulders in an elevated position is a small spa, set up with a couple of therapy tables and a private outside bathroom and shower. A variety of massage treatments are available, lasting 30 to 60 minutes.

Activities at Mpingo Ridge focus on game drives in the surrounding Tarangire valley, away from the busier northern sections of the park. Tarangire is known for its elephants, and on our most recent visit in September 2019 we saw several large herds and have wonderful memories of watching their interaction. You can expect to see a good number of predators here, with several prides of lions in the park, numerous leopard and cheetah, which can occasionally be seen hunting on the open plains. Morning or afternoon walks are also available, led by a walking guide from camp and accompanied by a park ranger. Night drives are a further option, at an extra cost, giving you a chance to discover the park's lesser-known, nocturnal species such as civets and genets. While it may be possible to arrange walking safaris and night drives at the lodge, these are best booked in advance.

This beautiful camp is the sister property of two high-quality lodges in the Serengeti, Lemala Kuria Hills and Lemala Nanyukie, both of which combine nicely with Lemala Mpingo Ridge as part of a luxurious circuit of northern Tanzania.

Geographics

Location
Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
Stay for at least two nights as Tarangire National Park is worth it - or stay three nights for time to enjoy the service and pampering from the lodge.
Directions
Lemala Mpingo Ridge is around a 45-minute drive from Kuro Airstrip, or around a three- to four-hour drive from Arusha.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
Lemala Mpingo Ridge serves a mixture of international and local cuisine. On our latest visit in September 2019 we found the meals to be of a very high quality and that this matched the style of the lodge very well.

Mealtimes are fairly flexible, and breakfast and lunch hampers can easily be arranged.

When breakfast is enjoyed in camp there is usually a buffet selection of fresh fruit, cereals, cold meats, fresh bread and pastries. Choose a fresh juice or smoothie to drink, or perhaps make your own Bucks Fizz or Bloody Mary from the provided ingredients! The chef prepares eggs to order and offers a daily special such as eggs benedict served on an English muffin with hollandaise sauce. Individual pots of tea or filter coffee are served to your table.

Lunch is often a picnic box enjoyed whilst on a game drive, but if eaten in camp it typically consists of something fresh and light, often served with salad, and followed by a simple dessert such as a sorbet.

Dinner is usually a set menu with two choices for each of the three courses. On one visit we started with pea and mint soup accompanied by naan bread and an aubergine dip. For the main course we ate pork wrapped in crispy bacon, served with creamy mashed potato and a butternut squash purée; this was followed by a decadent chocolate mousse with whipped cream. On our latest visit we were served fresh bread rolls with a white bean dip followed by creamy potato and cauliflower soup. The main course choices were beef fillet, potato rosti, green beans, roast tomato and salsa verde (superb!) or chicken breast flavoured by thyme and served with sweet potato. Dessert options were home-made strawberry ice cream or mango sorbet.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room Service available on request.
Drinks included
Most drinks are included. Premium spirits and champagne are available at an additional cost. Filtered water is provided.

Children

Attitude towards children
Lemala Mpingo Ridge welcomes children of all ages, although it is better suited for older children.
Property’s age restrictions
There are no age restrictions on children staying here, but children under 12 years may not take part in walking safaris.
Special activities & services
There is to be a kids club called Lemala Clubs, with an interactive set of activities for children aged up to 11 years old. Activities include making wooden Maasai bows and arrows and looking for wildlife footprints. There is no child-minding service.
Equipment
The family suite is made up of two rooms linked by a partially enclosed verandah. The sofa in each standard room can be adapted into a bed for one child sharing with parents.

There is no child specific equipment such as cots or high chairs.
Generally recommended for children
With a large family room, swimming pool and a great kids' club, Lemala Mpingo Ridge could be a good choice for families. However, as it is quite a sophisticated camp with a relatively adult atmosphere and open-sided decks, we would suggest that it is better suited to families with older children.
Notes
The camp is unfenced so children need to be under parental supervision at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Lemala Mpingo Ridge

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Lemala Mpingo Ridge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Buffalo

100% success

Eland

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Lion

100% success

Wildebeest

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Hippo

67% success

Oryx

33% success

Spotted Hyena

33% success

Aardvark

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Striped Hyena

0% success

Wild dog

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a back-up generator to ensure 24-hour power.

Hairdryers are supplied.
Each room has a selection of USB points and universal plug adaptors.
There are plug points by the bed which can be used for CPAP machines.
Communications
Free Wi-Fi in rooms only.
TV & radio
There is no TV at Lemala Mpingo Ridge.
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
All rooms have plumbed hot and cold water and flushing toilets.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
Staff are first-aid trained, and there is a large hospital in Arusha, a drive of about 3 to 4 hours. A flying doctor service is used in the event of medical emergencies.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
There is 24-hour security in place at Lemala Mpingo Ridge. Guests are escorted between their rooms and the communal area after dark.
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers are in place throughout the property.

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

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
A complimentary laundry service is available. Clothes are machine washed and sun dried.
Money
There are key-locked safes in all rooms.
Accepted payment on location
All major currencies are accepted, including US dollars, GB pounds and euros. Visa and Mastercard are accepted with a 3% surcharge.

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Lemala Mpingo Ridge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Lemala Mpingo Ridge.


Excursions from Lemala Mpingo Ridge

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Lemala Mpingo Ridge. 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
84% (49 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)

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Tarangire Treetops

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Chem Chem

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Nimali Tarangire

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Forest Chem Chem

Forest Chem Chem

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100% (1 review)
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

When to go to Tarangire National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Lemala Mpingo Ridge 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

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