How to Get to Tarangire National Park in Tanzania

How to Reach Tarangire National Park in Tanzania: Exploring the Transportation Options

Embarking on a journey to Tarangire National Park involves considering two primary modes of transportation: road or air travel.

By Air:

Opting for air travel provides convenience and efficiency. Kilimanjaro International Airport, located 46 kilometers (29 miles) from Arusha, serves as an ideal starting point for flights to Tarangire. Alternatively, travelers can fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport near Dar es Salaam and then arrange a domestic flight from Arusha Airport.

For a cost-effective flight, flying into Nairobi, Kenya, and then continuing with a bus journey between Arusha and Nairobi is a viable option. The journey can be timed to arrive in Arusha in the late afternoon, and most tour operators will arrange pick-ups from the airport and manage further transportation.

Charter flights are another option, connecting Arusha to Serengeti and then to Tarangire. The comfortable drive from Arusha to the entrance gate of Tarangire takes approximately 2 hours, with only 7 kilometers on a non-tarred road. From Tarangire, it’s convenient to drive to the neighboring Ngorongoro Conservation Area or Lake Manyara National Park.

Tarangire National Park: An Overview

Situated in Northern Tanzania, Tarangire is a seasonal park within the Greater Tarangire ecosystem, known for migratory movements. During the dry season between June and October, large herds of animals are drawn towards the Tarangire River. The park boasts an impressive population of elephants during this time. While Tarangire is less frequented compared to other Northern Tanzanian parks, it exudes the authentic essence of Africa, especially in its southern part. Covering 2,600 square kilometers, Tarangire is located southeast of Lake Manyara National Park, featuring a hilly landscape adorned with Baobab trees, thick bushes, and long grass.

Booking a Flight to Tarangire National Park:

Several online platforms provide reliable information on flight costs, schedules, and airlines serving Tarangire National Park. Notable recommendations include www.skyscanner.net for flights to multiple destinations and expedia.com for the latest updates, particularly regarding domestic flights.

Various domestic airlines operate flights to Tarangire, including Coastal Aviation, Air Tanzania, Safari Air Link, Precision Air, ZanAir, and Regional Air. It’s essential to note weight restrictions for charter flights, and travelers should inquire through their tour operators about luggage allowances.

By Road:

The distance from Arusha to Tarangire National Park is approximately 140 kilometers, requiring about three hours of driving. Despite being often perceived as a solitary safari destination, exploring Tarangire during the dry season provides remarkable wildlife views, especially in the southern part of the park. Tarangire is an integral part of the famous northern safari circuit, often visited alongside Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. Arusha serves as the starting point for many safaris within this circuit.