Tarangire Safari Lodge

Tarangire Safari Lodge, perched on the edge of Tarangire National Park, offers one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Tanzania, where guests can witness the raw beauty of African wildlife from their own verandas. Since its inception in 1983, the lodge has been under the meticulous care of manager Annette, ensuring a consistent level of quality and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that has made it a beloved retreat among travelers.

The lodge’s design harmonizes with its environment, featuring permanent tents and stone bungalows with thatched roofs, each providing private verandas with panoramic views of the park and the meandering Tarangire River. Here, the natural world comes alive; from your porch, you might see hundreds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife as they navigate the landscape below. The ambiance is one of immersion, where the rustling of baobab leaves and the distant calls of animals become part of your daily life.

Paths lined with ancient baobab trees lead to the swimming pool and an extensive buffet restaurant, where meals are complemented by good service and the spectacular vistas of the park. Tarangire Safari Lodge isn’t just accommodation; it’s an invitation to experience nature in its most unfiltered form.

Location

Located directly on the boundary of Tarangire National Park, a mere stone’s throw from the park’s activities, Tarangire Safari Lodge offers unparalleled access to one of Tanzania’s wildlife gems. Known for its large elephant population, the park is also a paradise for birdwatchers and those interested in the lesser-known but equally fascinating species like the oryx. The lodge is accessible by road, approximately a two-hour drive from Arusha, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the Northern Circuit. For travelers coming from further afield, there’s an airstrip within the park for direct flights, putting you within minutes of the lodge upon landing.

Accommodation

Tarangire Safari Lodge provides a variety of accommodations to cater to different preferences:

• Safari Tents: Available in configurations for 2 to 5 people, these tents feature thatched roofs and large mesh-screened windows for natural light and air. Each tent includes:
  • A private bathroom with solar-heated showers
  • Comfortable beds with mosquito nets
  • A spacious wardrobe
  • A verandah for wildlife viewing
• Bungalows: Constructed in the traditional Maasai boma style, these round structures offer more space, particularly for families or groups, with options for 2 to 4 guests. They include:
  • Larger en-suite bathrooms with solar-heated showers
  • Comfortable beds adorned with local textiles
  • Private porches overlooking the park
  • Ample privacy due to their location away from the main lodge area

Both types of accommodations are designed to provide comfort while ensuring guests feel connected to the surrounding environment.

Dining

Dining at Tarangire Safari Lodge is an experience in itself:

• Buffet Service: The restaurant serves a full board with a buffet that includes a wide range of dishes, from local Tanzanian flavors to international cuisine, catering to all palates.
• Special Atmosphere: Meals are enjoyed with views of the park, whether you’re having breakfast with the morning sun or dinner under the stars.
• Service and Quality: With Annette’s oversight, the food quality and service have remained top-notch, ensuring that every meal is both a culinary and visual delight.
• Campfire Dinners: Occasionally, dinners are arranged around a campfire, offering a taste of traditional African dining under the night sky.

Amenities

• Swimming Pool: A refreshing oasis where guests can relax while keeping an eye out for wildlife.
• Baobab Boutique: A small shop offering local crafts, souvenirs, and essentials.
• Charging Stations: Available for guests to charge their camera batteries or phones, primarily powered in the morning and afternoon.
• Wi-Fi: Access to keep you connected, although the lodge encourages embracing the digital detox of nature.
• Lounge Area: For relaxing with a book or discussing the day’s sightings with fellow travelers.
• Campfire: A nightly tradition where stories are swapped, and the African night is celebrated.