Tarangire Simba Lodge

Tarangire Simba Lodge image 1
Tarangire Simba Lodge image 2

Tarangire Simba Lodge

Tarangire Simba Lodge is a mid-range to upper-mid-range permanent tented safari lodge located just outside the Sangaiwe Gate of Tarangire National Park in northern Tanzania. It is particularly popular with travelers seeking an authentic safari atmosphere without the premium prices of luxury camps. The lodge is renowned for its excellent wildlife viewing around the property, spacious safari tents, and panoramic views toward Lake Burunge. 

Location

The lodge sits:

  • Adjacent to the Sangaiwe Gate of Tarangire National Park

  • Approximately 2–2.5 hours' drive from Arusha

  • Within the Burunge Wildlife Management Area, which forms part of the greater Tarangire ecosystem

  • Overlooking Lake Burunge and surrounding plains

This location offers two major advantages:

  • Quick access into Tarangire for early morning game drives.

  • Wildlife frequently passes through or near the lodge itself because it lies within an active wildlife corridor. 

Accommodation

The lodge features permanent safari tents rather than conventional hotel rooms.

Each tent generally includes:

  • Comfortable king or twin beds

  • En-suite bathroom

  • Flush toilet

  • Hot shower

  • Outdoor shower

  • Wooden flooring

  • Large private veranda

  • Mosquito nets

  • Solar-powered lighting

The tents are widely spaced, creating privacy while maintaining a genuine bush-camp feel. 

Lodge Facilities

Facilities include:

  • Swimming pool with panoramic bush views

  • Elevated wildlife viewing platform

  • Restaurant serving buffet and à la carte meals

  • Lounge and bar

  • Campfire area

  • Gift shop

  • Free Wi-Fi in common areas (connection quality may vary)

  • Laundry service

  • Secure parking

One of the lodge's signature features is its large baobab tree, which contributes to the property's distinctive atmosphere. 

Wildlife Around the Lodge

One of Tarangire Simba Lodge's strongest selling points is that wildlife often visits the property.

Guests regularly report seeing:

  • Elephants

  • Giraffes

  • Zebras

  • Impalas

  • Bushbuck

  • Warthogs

  • Baboons

  • Mongooses

  • Hyenas (occasionally)

  • Numerous bird species

At night, it is common to hear:

  • Lions roaring in the distance

  • Hyenas calling

  • Bush babies

  • Owls

During the dry season, animals frequently gather at a nearby waterhole visible from parts of the lodge. 

Dining Experience

Meals are typically served on a full-board basis.

Breakfast:

  • Fresh fruit

  • Eggs

  • Sausages

  • Cereals

  • Coffee and tea

  • Breads and pastries

Lunch:

  • Salads

  • Rice

  • Pasta

  • Grilled meats

  • Vegetarian dishes

Dinner:

  • Soup

  • Main buffet

  • Dessert

  • Local and international cuisine

The lodge can generally accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and many special dietary requirements with advance notice. 

Safari Activities

Most guests use the lodge as a base for exploring Tarangire National Park.

Common activities include:

  • Morning game drives

  • Full-day safaris

  • Birdwatching

  • Sundowners

  • Cultural visits to nearby Maasai communities

  • Guided walks (where available through operators)

Tarangire National Park is especially famous for:

  • Large elephant herds

  • Ancient baobab trees

  • Lions

  • Leopards

  • Cheetahs (less common)

  • Buffalo

  • Giraffes

  • Over 500 bird species. 

Best Time to Visit

June–October (Dry Season):

  • Best wildlife viewing

  • Large elephant concentrations

  • Animals gather around rivers and waterholes

  • Cooler temperatures

November–May (Green Season):

  • Lush landscapes

  • Excellent birdwatching

  • Fewer visitors

  • Better value

  • Some afternoon rain, particularly March–May

The dry season is generally considered the premier time for safari in Tarangire. 

Advantages

  • Excellent value for money

  • Authentic safari atmosphere

  • Wildlife frequently seen around the lodge

  • Spacious permanent tents

  • Outdoor showers

  • Scenic swimming pool

  • Convenient location near the park entrance

  • Friendly staff consistently praised by guests. 

Potential Drawbacks

  • Located just outside rather than inside the national park, so a short drive is needed to enter.

  • Wildlife sounds at night may not suit guests seeking a conventional hotel experience.

  • Internet access can be limited or intermittent due to the remote location.

  • The camp is intentionally rustic, so it lacks some of the amenities found at luxury lodges. 

Who It Suits Best

Tarangire Simba Lodge is an excellent choice for:

  • First-time safari travelers

  • Couples

  • Families

  • Small groups

  • Wildlife photographers

  • Birdwatchers

  • Travelers seeking an authentic safari experience at a moderate price point

Chat with us