With huge baobabs scattered across its skyline, Tarangire National Park presents an almost surreal picture with many of the trees being rubbed raw by the huge herds of elephant which pass through in search of food.
Apart from the Tarangire River itself, which runs into huge swamps in the south and which concentrates most of the game, the park is exceptionally dry. In direct contrast, the neighbouring Lake Manyara National Park is lush and green with swaying vines and twisted fig trees.
Herds of up to 300 elephants scratch the dry Tarangire river bed for underground streams, while migratory wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest and eland crowd the shrinking lagoons.
It’s the greatest concentration of wildlife outside the Serengeti ecosystem and the one place in Tanzania where dry-country antelope, such as the stately fringe-eared oryx and peculiar long-necked gerenuk, are regularly observed.
The compact game-viewing circuit through Manyara offers a virtual microcosm of the Tanzanian safari experience. This deep forest is home to thousands of monkeys, birds and the rare, tree-climbing lion. Manyara provides the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s birdlife.
More than 400 species have been recorded, and even a first-time visitor to Africa might reasonably expect to observe 100 of these in one day. The wall of the Rift Valley, which flanks one side of the park, provides a wonderful setting for several lodges.
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A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.
Chris is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Africa.
25 years ago, my first trip to Africa took on a life of its own. I planned for three months, I stayed for two years. Whilst there, I was mistaken for a priest, attacked by sharks and arrested. Yet the countless, clattering journeys opened my eyes to the beauty of the landscapes and the grace of the people. My recent trips are undoubtedly more comfortable, but the welcome is as warm as ever and the best experiences are still those I never see coming.
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