Tarangire is one of Tanzania’s most underrated safari parks, and those who go often say it surprised them more than anywhere else on their trip. Located in the Manyara Region south of Arusha, the park is defined by the Tarangire River, ancient baobab trees, and enormous herds of elephants that make their way here during the dry season in numbers that are almost difficult to believe. During July to October, Tarangire sees some of the greatest elephant concentrations in East Africaas herds from across the wider ecosystem converge on the 10 river, the only permanent water source for miles. Alongside the elephants you will find lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and a spectacular diversity of bird species that makes it one of the best birdwatching destinations in Tanzania. The landscape itself is worth the trip. Ancient baobabs, some of them thousands of years old, rise from the dry scrub alongside the riverbanks. The terrain is more rugged and visuallydramatic than the open plains of the Serengeti, and the park sees considerably fewer vehicles on game drives, which makes the whole experience feel more exclusive. The best time to visit Tarangire is from June to October during the dry season when wildlife concentrations are at their highest. However, the wet season from November to May is excellent for birdwatching and for seeing the bush in a completely different, verdant form. Getting there involves flying into KilimanjaroInternational Airport and driving about two hours south to the park gate. Tarangire is an excellent addition to any northern Tanzania itinerary alongside the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.