Tarangire is far from being the biggest of the Tanzanian parks, and is not as famous as the other northern reserves, but its unrivalled landscape of open plains, dotted with thousands of baobabs, is unforgettable. It is only 600 square kilometres in size, but during the dry season, the masses of migrating animals can be found congregated along the Tarangire River - and game concentrations are at this time (June to October) higher than those in the Serengeti. This is also considered the best place in Tanzania to see really big herds of elephant- up top 300 at a time. The park is situated south east of Manyara, 120 km from Arusha. 

Seasons: The highest concentrations of game can be found between June/July to Oct/Nov. Serious birders will have better success from October to May. 

Wildlife: You should see: Elephant, eland, zebra, buffalo, wildebeest, Masai giraffe. You may see: Leopard, rhino, Thomson's gazelle, hartebeest, impala, kudu, reebuck, gerenuk, lion & wild dog. 

Precautions: Malaria area - minimize mosquito bites by wearing light, long sleeved clothing and using effective insect repellents (containing Diethyltoluamide DEET) on exposed skin. Sleep under treated mosquito netting or ensure that the doors and windows of your accommodation are screened against mosquitoes. Having a fan or air-conditioner on at night will further suppress mosquito activity. Currently, the three effective anti-malaria tablets are Mefloquine (Lariam or Mefliam), Doxycycline and Malarone (Malanil). It is still possible to contract malaria while on malaria prophylaxis. Note that Lariam may present serious side-effects - please test before you depart.