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.
Our view
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.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
40 rooms
Children
Best for 8+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Night drive
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Tarangire Safari Lodge
12 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 67 pictures of Tarangire Safari to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Tarangire Safari
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
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
Tarangire Safari Lodge: Our full report
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 main areas at Tarangire Safari Lodge are characterised by rather imposing thatched roofs, which house a central lounge/bar area with chunky wooden chairs and coffee tables. The views from here are impressive and it provides a good place to relax. A stone veranda wraps around this central area and has truly stunning views; it's a very peaceful spot to enjoy a sundowner, and a drinks and snack station is set up here in the evening, with plentiful seating to sit and watch the sunset. The dining room, just off the main lounge/bar area, is fairly large and perfectly adequate, if a little soulless.
Outside the main entrance there is a shaded area that has informative noticeboards and a very detailed map of the park. Tarangire Safari Lodge also has a small but very stocked shop selling a range of curios and travel essentials, and a swimming pool surrounded by sunloungers, which are very welcome in the heat of the day. There's also a slide into the pool which the children were enjoying on our last visit.
The "rooms" at Tarangire Safari Lodge consist of 35 tents and five bungalows, divided into two wings of 13 tents on the right of the main area, and five bungalows and the rest of the tents on the left.
Each of the tents is suspended under thatch and is fairly simple. The beds can be either doubles or twins, and you'll find a writing desk and a canvas luggage rack. The basic bathroom is at the back of the tent, behind a zipped canvas partition. Here there is a single basin, a large hot and cold shower and a flushing toilet, these last separated by a curtain for privacy.
At the far end of the lodge, the circular bungalows are constructed from stone and thatch, and each houses three beds, so they're a good option for families. They have spacious bathrooms with proper closing doors, and the windows are glass slats covered with mosquito gauze, so you can open them to let in the breeze. The bungalows are large enough that extra beds can be added to make a triple or quadruple room.
All these rooms at Tarangire Safari Lodge are kitted out with basic toiletries, a torch, insect repellent, a whistle for attracting attention and an umbrella.
It's worth noting that the lodge tries hard to be wheelchair friendly for active, disabled visitors, and most of their rooms and communal areas are on one level.
Geographics
- Location
- Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- 2–3 nights to explore the Tarangire River area. Many lower-budget safaris stop here for just one night; we think that would be far too rushed for comfort – and would restrict all drives to the busy area around the lodge.
- Directions
- The lodge is around a 30 minute drive from the main park gates. It is approximately 2.5 hours drive from Arusha.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- Meals at Tarangire Safari Lodge are all self-service buffets, although many guests opt to take a boxed lunch out with them rather than return to the lodge in the middle of the day. The lodge describes their food as 'international cuisine', and whilst we felt that they were trying hard, we found the dinner selection a little uninspiring and the quality variable on our last stay here. Soup, salad, grilled meat and fish were available from the buffet, and for desert we were we served individual portions of passion fruit mousse and apple cake at our table. The breakfast selection was good, with all the hot and cold choices you’d expect; from cereals, fruit and a cold meat platter, to an egg and pancake station..
The lodge can cater for special dietary requirements with advance notice.
Complimentary tea and coffee are available throughout the day at the bar. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Not possible.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are an extra cost. Expect to pay around $5 for a beer and $2 for soft drinks.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- The camp welcomes children.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There is no minimum age at Tarangire Safari Lodge.
- Special activities & services
- Tarangire Safari Lodge serves a special children's meal at an earlier time. They also have a pool with a slide and child minding can be arranged.
- Equipment
- They can provide cots and highchairs on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- Tarangire Safari Lodge is well geared towards children. However, it's important to note that the camp is still wild, and game does wander through – so we'd only recommend it for mature children over the age of 8.
- Notes
- Parents must note that children are their responsibility, and should be supervised at all times. Due to the lcose proximity of wildlife, children should never walk around the lodge unaccompanied - even in the day.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Tarangire Safari
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Tarangire Safari Lodge 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.
100% success
100% success
100% success
80% success
80% success
80% success
40% success
40% success
40% success
40% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are no charging points in the tents. Batteries and small electronic items can be charged in the main area, when the generator is on between 05:45-10:00 and 18:00-23:00. Once the generator is switched off there are no lights in the tents, although solar powered lamps are provided.
- Communications
- There is average WiFi in the lounge area and outside terrace.
- TV & radio
- There is no TV or radio here.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- Filtered water is supplied for drinking.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Tarangire Safari Lodge has a basic first-aid kit. For more serious cases the nearest large hospital is in Arusha.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Askaris (Maasai guards) patrol the camp at night.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers outside each guest tent and dotted around the lodge.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Night drive
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is available at an extra cost ($1-$3 per item). It is hand washed and line dried so will take a day, dependent on the weather. Undergarments are not accepted.
- Money
- There are no safes in the tents or bungalow, but you can give any valuables to reception for safe keeping.
- Accepted payment on location
- Tarangire Safari Lodge accepts payment in cash – either US dollars or pounds sterling. You can also pay with Visa and MasterCard with a 3% surcharge.
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Tarangire Safari Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Tarangire Safari.
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
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
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 WalkOther lodges in Tarangire National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Oliver's Camp
Oliver's Camp is a small, intimate, luxury tented camp in a great location in northern Tanzania's Tarangire National Park.
Kuro Tarangire
Kuro Tarangire is a stylish tented camp, located in a quiet and remote area deep in Tarangire National Park.
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.
Lemala Mpingo Ridge
Lemala Mpingo Ridge is a stylish camp in Tarangire National Park, with a beautiful location and elevated views over the park.
Tarangire Sopa Lodge
Tarangire Sopa Lodge is a large, comfortable, family-friendly hotel in Tarangire National Park, suitable for travellers on a budget.
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.
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.
Chem Chem
Chem Chem is a luxury tented lodge on a private concession between Lake Manyara and Tarangire national parks.
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.
Kirurumu Tarangire
Kirurumu Tarangire Lodge is a simple, small, tented camp positioned just outside the northern boundary of Tarangire National Park.
Maramboi Tented Camp
Maramboi Tented Camp is a family-friendly tented lodge located between Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park.
Nimali Tarangire
Nimali is a small camp built in contemporary style on the outskirts of Tarangire National Park in northern Tanzania.
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.
Little Chem Chem
Little Chem Chem is a stylish option near Tarangire National Park, offering real relaxation combined with a variety of safari activities.
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
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