On an exploratory FAM with Albatros East Africa earlier in 2022, our group had the chance to experience Albatros’ fantastic guiding and vehicles with stops along Tanzania’s famed Northern Circuit. One very memorable stop was at Honeyguide Tarangire Camp. I hadn’t been to Tarangire National Park in more than a decade. I’m not sure why it hadn’t been part of other Northern Circuit itineraries I had done during that time, but it really is a must-see.
Best known (and rightfully so) for its huge elephant herds and prolific baobab trees, the park teems with wildlife and is awash in stunning landscapes. Honeyguide Tarangire Camp is the perfect base to explore this wilderness. Situated just 30 minutes from the park gate, the camp feels very exclusive with an absence of other vehicles and plenty of game to see. The camp’s 10 super spacious en suite tents have private decks and everything you could need including electricity, hot water on demand, luxurious beds and a fan for warm nights. It’s also eco-friendly, using solar power and leaving no footprint when dismantled.
The hospitality at Honeyguide Tarangire makes it extra special. The camp’s staff were warm and welcoming and made it feel like a home away from home the moment we arrived. Raymond and his team took superb care of us – from the morning wake-up call with coffee and hot milk (why don’t we do this in North America??) to sundowner treats and drinks in the bush. The food is sublime – super fresh and creative, with nothing being too heavy. I asked for recipes on departure – it was that good!
The wildlife in Tarangire is fantastic. Most people will tell you to go during the dry season between July and November, and while it is spectacular then with wildlife congregating at the river, but it’s absolutely gorgeous during the green season and we had fantastic sightings. Our first was a lioness with three cubs in a dry riverbed, lazing in the sun. We also saw countless elephants (of course), having nearly every sighting to ourselves with the chance to slow down and really observe the pachyderms thriving in their natural environment. We saw loads of plains game including giraffe and oryx, as well as enjoying a lovely baboon sighting. I know not everyone loves these somewhat maligned primates, but how can you resist this face?
The birdlife in Tarangire is also awesome. I’m not a massive twitcher, but I do enjoy avian life – especially in Africa. We saw red bishop, secretary birds, crowned cranes, raptors, storks, weavers and more. It’s a great park for birdwatching.
The camp also has a super cool vintage safari vehicle. Guests staying two nights have the chance to go out on a game drive in the vehicle, followed by special sundowners in the bush.
It was hard to leave that last morning, but we had a farewell send off from one of the park’s amazing elephants. I’m so glad to be reminded of the beauty and wonder to be found in Tarangire, and even better, to have a home base there.
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