Tanzania Parks
By Philip Briggs
Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Bradt guidebooks to African destinations, including the guide to Tanzania.
Tarangire is outstanding seasonally for wildlife. In the Dry season, the Tarangire River is a magnet for migratory animals such as wildebeest, zebra, common eland, hartebeest, gazelle, buffalo and elephant – of which there are more than you can imagine. Lion are quite easily spotted at this time, as well.
Wildlife Highlights
Tarangire is home to some dry-country antelope, such as the rare fringe-eared oryx and peculiar, long-necked gerenuk. The swampy areas in the south of the park offer some interesting wildlife viewing opportunities including wallowing elephants and buffalo, the Silale Swamp lion pride and sometimes wild dog. Big pythons can sometimes be found in trees when the swamps are drying up.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
The Dry season (from June to October) is the best time for wildlife viewing. At this time, large herds of animals migrate to the park from the surrounding wildlife areas, and predators follow. Animals are easier to spot because vegetation is thinner and wildlife congregates around the Tarangire River when other water sources dry up. During the Wet season (November to May) most animals migrate out of the park again, and wildlife viewing is not as good.
Wildlife Rating Per Major Park
- Gombe NP 4.4/5 18 Wildlife Ratings
- Katavi NP 4.3/5 26 Wildlife Ratings
- Lake Manyara NP 4.0/5 168 Wildlife Ratings
- Ngorongoro 4.8/5 325 Wildlife Ratings
- Ruaha NP 4.7/5 63 Wildlife Ratings
- Selous GR 4.5/5 72 Wildlife Ratings
- Serengeti NP 4.9/5 304 Wildlife Ratings
- Tarangire NP 4.6/5 192 Wildlife Ratings
