If you’re fascinated by ancient trees, Tarangire is a must-visit. The park is home to centuries-old baobab trees, which the Maasai believe were the first trees on Earth. These giants can reach up to 30 meters (98 ft) tall, with trunks as wide as 11 meters (36 ft). They store thousands of liters of water, which elephants tap into by chewing the moist wood.

It’s no surprise that Tarangire has one of the highest elephant densities in the world. You’ll often see these massive animals up close, sometimes just meters from your vehicle.

Beyond elephants, the park is rich with wildlife. Lions, cheetahs, zebras, kudus, buffalo, and a variety of antelope are common sightings. With over 300 bird species recorded, it’s also a paradise for bird lovers.

Tarangire’s tree-climbing pythons, leopards, and even lions are a rare sight. They rest on branches, blending in with the sausage trees. If spotting these elusive animals excites you, check out our Tanzania Safari Packages.

During the dry season, the park’s shrinking lagoons draw massive herds of wildebeest, zebra, impala, and buffalo. Elephants dig into the dry riverbanks searching for water, often gathering in groups of 300 or more.

Tarangire hosts the largest wildlife concentration outside the Serengeti. It’s also the best place in Tanzania to spot rare dry-country species like the fringe-eared oryx and the long-necked gerenuk.