What to do in Tarangire National Park

The World’s Oldest Tree in Tanzania

Tanzania is not only a world-class safari destination for travellers on a safari but also offers an incredible blend of ancient natural wonders with an astonishing historical marvel of the Baobab tree, which is the world’s oldest tree. The baobab tree stands as a testament to life, having lived for over 6000 years. The world’s oldest tree, the Baobab, is located in Tarangire National Park, which is also home to a diverse array of wildlife species and stunning landscapes, including the largest population of African Elephants.

In this article, we will explore the fascinating story behind Tanzania’s oldest tree, highlight other incredible attractions to visit while on a Tanzania safari, and provide insights on the best time to visit, what to expect, and everything you need to know for an unforgettable adventure in Tanzania.

About Baobab Trees (genus Adansonia)

Baobab trees are one of the nine deciduous trees native to 32 African countries which is their mainland due to dry climate. Over time, the baobab trees have adapted to this environment and therefore can thrive. During the rainy/wet season, the baobab trees can absorb large amounts of water which enables them to produce nutrient-dense fruit during the dry season and thus can provide food and shelter for some animals.

Discovery of the old Baobab Tree in Tanzania.

Initially, the baobab tree was known as “Bahobab”, which translates from the Arabic word “bu hibab”, and later changed to Baobab after the discovery. The Baobab was first discovered by an Arab traveller called Ibn Battuta and later was well observed by a French explorer and botanist, Michel Adanson, who fully observed and wrote about its illustration and full botanical description of the tree. Later, the tree was named genus Adansonia after the French explorer Michel Adanson to honour his research.

In Tanzania, the Baobab tree was first discovered in Tarangire National Park in the northern part of the country, thought to be over 3000 years old. This incredible discovery sparked interest among environmentalists, tourists, and researchers, providing insights into the monument of nature during climate change and harsh environmental conditions. The Baobab is not just known as the world’s oldest tree but also holds significant cultural value to the surrounding local communities. The Baobab is considered a symbol of life, longevity, and a strong connection between the earth and the heavens in most African Cultures. The tree stands as a living testament to the enduring spirit of the African wilderness.

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is nestled in the northern part of Tanzania, spanning an area of about 2,850 square kilometers, making it one of the biggest national parks in Tanzania. Tarangire National Park is one of the country’s most underrated yet spectacular safari destinations with the largest population of African Elephants in Tanzania, including rich biodiversity, and distinct ecosystems that make it a must-visit destination for travellers on an African safari. Tarangire National Park offers a mix of savanna, woodland, swamps, and riverine forests, creating a stunning contrast of ecosystems that support a wide range of animal and plant species.

What to do in Tarangire National Park

While Tarangire National Park is popular for the world’s oldest tree, the Baobab tree, the park also offers a variety of tour activities for travellers and nature lovers exploring the baobab tree in the park, including the following;

Game Drive Safaris: Game Drive safaris are the best way to explore the park’s biodiversity and ecosystems. Visitors in an open safari vehicle guided by expert safari guides will have a chance to spot a variety of animal species, such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, buffalo, gazelles, and waterbucks, as well as different bird species.

Walking Safaris: Walking safaris are the best way to have an intimate and personal wildlife experience, to connect with nature. Walking safaris are led by expert armed rangers to provide security and safety as you explore the park’s ecosystem. During the walking safari, you will have a chance to spot a variety of animal species, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, gazelles, hyenas, and other animal species. Embarking on a walking safari experience in Tarangire National Park provides a unique perspective on the park’s flora and fauna and allows visitors to learn about the ecosystem, such as tracks, insects, and plants.

Bird Watching: Tarangire National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise consisting boasting over 550 bird species where nature lovers or birders can observe and identify a variety of bird species including the kori bustard, secretary bird, vultures, marabou stork, greater flamingo, grey hornbill, African fish eagle, yellow-billed stork, white-headed buffalo weaver, tinkerbird, masked weaver, lapwing, black-shouldered kite, northern red-billed hornbill, Lilac-breasted roller, Southern ground hornbill, bustards, Burchell’s starling, black-crowned crane, speckled pigeon, common buzzard, Crowned crane, black-winged stilt, Pied crow, green pigeon, African hoopoe, brown-headed parrot, and woodpeckers.

Masai Cultural Experiences: Beyond natural wonders, visitors can engage in Masai Cultural experiences, a community that surrounds the park. The cultural experiences offer an insight into Maasai traditions, customs, and daily life, including their semi-nomadic pastoral lifestyle, ceremonies, and cultural practices such as traditional dances, folk songs, and other practices, thus contrasting wildlife with cultural experiences where visitors can learn about the deep cultural heritage of the region.

Best Time to Visit Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park can be visited at any time of the year though the best time to Visit Tarangire National Park largely depends on the interests and what to see. The dry season is arguably the best time to see the park. The dry season runs from December to February and June to October when the wildlife congregates around the Tarangire River and other water sources thus making wildlife sightings easier.

In conclusion, Tanzania is undoubtedly one of Africa’s most captivating safari destinations, and the discovery of the Old Baobab Tree is just one example of the rich natural and cultural heritage it has to offer. Whether you’re gazing at the Great Migration in Serengeti, exploring the lush Ngorongoro Crater, or unwinding on the beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.