Tarangire National Park Day Tour

Duration

1 day

Max People

12+

Min Age

Tour Type

Add-On Safaris

Overview

Explore the stunning landscapes and iconic wildlife of Tarangire National Park on this immersive full-day safari from Arusha or Moshi. Known for its ancient baobab trees, wide savannahs, and vast herds of elephants, Tarangire offers a classic safari experience in a less crowded setting. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 500 bird species. This day tour is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want to witness the beauty and wildlife diversity of Tanzania’s northern circuit.

Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a returning wildlife enthusiast, Tarangire’s dramatic scenery, seasonal migration patterns, and predator sightings make for an unforgettable experience. You’ll travel in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional guide who will help you spot lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and countless antelopes. The park’s signature feature is the Tarangire River, which draws animals from miles around—especially during the dry season.

This trip is perfect as a standalone day adventure or as part of a longer safari itinerary. With comfortable transportation, expert guiding, and a well-packed lunch, you’ll experience the essence of the Tanzanian wilderness in just one day.

Tour Highlights

Departure & Return Location: Any hotel in Arusha/Moshi or Kilimanjaro International Airport
Departure Time: 6:30–7:00 AM
Return Time: Around 6:30 PM
Dress Code: Safari casual – sunhat, sunglasses, insect repellent, long sleeves recommended
Customizations: Can be extended to overnight stay or paired with Lake Manyara
Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season, best for wildlife concentration)
Vehicle Type: 4×4 safari land cruiser with pop-up roof
Guide Support: Certified wildlife guide with birding and animal behavior knowledge

What to Expect on Tour

Expect a full day of wildlife viewing, stunning landscapes, and fascinating animal encounters. Tarangire is famous for its large elephant families and seasonal wildlife migrations. Depending on the time of year, you may witness large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and buffalo drawn to the Tarangire River. Alongside predator sightings such as lions and leopards, your guide will also help identify hundreds of bird species. With scenic picnic sites and a well-organized route, this day tour offers comfort, learning, and excitement.

Includes/Excludes

Pick-up & drop-off at your location
Services of a professional English speaking safari guide.
All meals
Mineral water
Value Added Tax by Tanzania Revenue Authority.
Transport and wildlife drives in modified 4 x 4 Land Cruiser with photographic roof hatch.

International Flights.
Domestic flight.
All items of a personal nature.
Accommodation before and after Safari.
Gratuities (Tip) for safari guide.
Drinks and Beverage at Lodge during Safari
Travel insurance we are highly recommends.

📍Tarangire National Park Day Tour Itinerary

Morning: Scenic Drive & First Game Drive

Begin your day with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi and head southwest through Maasai plains toward Tarangire National Park. Enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive filled with glimpses of rural Tanzanian life. Upon arrival, your guide will handle entry formalities, and you’ll begin your first game drive. This is when wildlife is most active, so keep your eyes open for elephants, giraffes, impalas, and the first signs of predators under the morning light.

Afternoon: Game Viewing & Picnic Lunch

Continue your safari adventure deeper into the park. You’ll drive along the Tarangire River, a permanent water source that attracts countless animals during the dry season. Spot massive herds of elephants, wildebeest, hartebeest, and zebras gathering at the riverbank. Around midday, settle at one of the park’s designated picnic sites for a bush-style lunch with panoramic views. Your guide will share insights on animal behavior, park history, and conservation as you relax in nature’s tranquility.

Evening: Final Safari & Return Journey

In the late afternoon, embark on a final game drive while making your way back toward the park gate. This is a great time to spot elusive animals like leopards or cheetahs beginning to stir for their evening hunts. Birds take to the skies in dramatic flocks as the sun lowers across the baobab-dotted landscape. By 4:30 PM, exit the park and enjoy a peaceful drive back to Arusha or Moshi, arriving by early evening.

1. Is a Tarangire day tour worth it?

Absolutely! Even in just one day, Tarangire offers excellent wildlife sightings, especially of elephants and migratory animals. It’s less crowded than Serengeti or Ngorongoro, offering a more intimate safari experience. The drive is manageable from Arusha or Moshi, making it perfect for travelers short on time. Combined with expert guides and rich biodiversity, it’s a rewarding and cost-effective way to experience a real African safari.

2. What wildlife will I likely see in one day?

You’re almost guaranteed to see elephants, zebras, giraffes, impalas, wildebeest, and many species of birds. Lions are also common, and leopards or cheetahs may be spotted with some luck. The Tarangire River is a magnet for animals, especially in the dry season. The landscape is open, making animal viewing easier compared to denser areas. Your guide will help spot and explain animal behaviors throughout the day.

3. How long is the drive to Tarangire from Arusha or Moshi?

From Arusha, it takes approximately 2–2.5 hours to reach Tarangire National Park. From Moshi, it’s about 3–3.5 hours. The roads are mostly paved with a final stretch of gravel leading to the park gate. Departure is usually early morning to maximize your time inside the park. The return journey is relaxed, with scenic views and a chance to reflect on the wildlife you encountered.

4. Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?

Yes, the Tarangire day tour is suitable for all ages. The game drives are conducted in well-maintained safari vehicles that provide shade and comfort. Children will enjoy spotting animals, especially elephants and monkeys. Older travelers appreciate the slow-paced nature of the drives and the chance to enjoy landscapes without needing to walk. All rest stops and lunch locations are accessible and clean.

5. What should I bring for the day trip?

Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, camera, binoculars if you have them, and a light jacket for early mornings. Wear closed shoes and comfortable clothes in neutral colors. We also recommend a power bank for your phone or camera. A packed picnic lunch is included, but snacks can also be carried. Your guide will have first aid supplies and extra drinking water.

6. Are there restrooms in the park?

Yes, there are clean restrooms available at the main entrance gate and at designated picnic sites throughout the park. Your guide will ensure regular breaks during the game drive, and the route is planned to include stops where you can stretch and refresh. There are also shaded areas for lunch and short walks near the rest points, offering safe views of the surroundings.

7. Can I combine Tarangire with another park in one day?

Technically yes, but it’s not recommended unless you opt for a fly-in or overnight trip. Tarangire alone is rich in wildlife and deserves a full day of exploration. However, if you’re planning multiple days, Tarangire pairs beautifully with Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, or even Serengeti. For single-day add-ons, consider Materuni Waterfalls or a cultural visit to a Maasai village to balance nature and culture.

Pricing

Number of People	Cost Per Person
1 person	$2,100
2 people	$1,250
3 people	$1,060
4 people	$940
5 people	$890
6–10 people	$840

Accommodation

Tour Day	Budget Camping Package	Standard Package
Day 1	Outpost Lodge / Tulia Boutique Hotel / Green Mountain Hotel	Ilboru Safari Lodge / Arusha Planet Lodge / Airport Planet Lodge
Day 2	Lilac Campsite / Panorama Campsite	Eileen’s Tree Inn / Endoro Lodge / Karatu Simba Lodge

Price

From

$550.00