- Seguku Katale. Kampala
3 Days Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park Tour
Tanzania offers some of the most spectacular wildlife experiences in the world, and this 3 Days Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park Tour captures the essence of the country’s natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Ideal for travelers who are short on time but want a high-quality safari experience, this tour takes you to two of Tanzania’s top national parks—Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park. From spotting iconic wildlife like elephants and lions to observing flamingos and giraffes in their natural habitats, this journey promises unforgettable encounters with Africa’s incredible wildlife.
Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a returning visitor, this tour offers a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and immersion in Tanzania’s stunning landscapes.
Day 1: Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park
Your safari adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Arusha, Tanzania’s main safari gateway. After meeting your guide and receiving a quick overview of the exciting journey ahead, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Lake Manyara National Park, located approximately two hours from Arusha. As you approach the park, you’ll notice the breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, which provides a dramatic backdrop to the park’s lush forests and open savannahs.
Upon arrival, you’ll start your game drive, exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems, from groundwater forests to acacia woodlands. Lake Manyara is best known for its impressive population of tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior not commonly seen in other regions. If you’re lucky, you might spot one of these lions lounging in the branches of an acacia tree, resting in the shade after a hunt.
The park is also home to large herds of elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes, as well as troops of playful baboons and other primates. One of the highlights of Lake Manyara is the abundance of birdlife, with thousands of flamingos flocking to the alkaline lake, creating a pink spectacle along the shoreline. Other bird species include pelicans, storks, and kingfishers, making the park a paradise for birdwatchers.
After a day of exploring the park’s rich wildlife, you’ll head to your accommodation near Lake Manyara for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, Escarpment Luxury Lodge
- Midrange: Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge, Kirurumu Manyara Tented Camp
- Budget: Twiga Campsite, Manyara Wildlife Camp
Highlights:
- Scenic drive from Arusha to Lake Manyara
- Game drive with chances to spot tree-climbing lions, elephants, and flamingos
- Overnight stay in a lodge or camp near Lake Manyara
Day 2: Lake Manyara to Tarangire National Park
On the second day of your tour, you’ll depart from Lake Manyara after breakfast and drive approximately two hours to Tarangire National Park. Famous for its huge herds of elephants, which can often be seen moving across the landscape in large family groups, Tarangire offers a unique safari experience. The park is named after the Tarangire River, a vital water source that attracts a wide range of animals, especially during the dry season.
As you embark on a game drive through Tarangire, you’ll notice the park’s distinct features, including its towering baobab trees, which dot the landscape like ancient sentinels. These massive trees are not only strikingly beautiful but also play an important role in the ecosystem, providing shelter and food for a variety of wildlife.
The riverbanks are a hotspot for wildlife activity, where you’re likely to see buffaloes, zebras, and wildebeests gathering to drink, while predators like lions and leopards lie in wait. Tarangire is also home to an impressive array of bird species, with over 550 recorded, including yellow-collared lovebirds, Kori bustards, and ostriches.
After a picnic lunch in one of the park’s scenic spots, you’ll continue your game drive, exploring different areas of the park and keeping an eye out for giraffes, impalas, and possibly even cheetahs. In the late afternoon, you’ll head to your lodge or camp for dinner and a relaxing evening surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the African wilderness.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Tarangire Treetops, Tarangire Safari Lodge
- Midrange: Tarangire Sopa Lodge, Sangaiwe Tented Lodge
- Budget: Tarangire Campsite, Whistling Thorn Tented Camp
Highlights:
- Morning drive from Lake Manyara to Tarangire National Park
- Game drive through Tarangire’s elephant-filled landscapes and baobab forests
- Sightings of lions, giraffes, and a variety of bird species
- Overnight stay at a lodge or camp near Tarangire
Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Return to Arusha
Your final day of the safari begins with an early morning game drive in Tarangire National Park, one of the best times to observe wildlife. In the cool morning air, animals are more active, and you may witness predators like lions and leopards finishing their nightly hunts. As you explore the park’s diverse landscapes, keep your eyes peeled for elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and smaller mammals such as dik-diks and mongoose.
After a few hours of wildlife viewing, you’ll return to your lodge for breakfast before setting off on the journey back to Arusha. The drive back offers more opportunities to take in the scenic beauty of northern Tanzania’s landscapes, with its rolling hills, farmlands, and Maasai villages.
Upon arrival in Arusha, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, marking the end of your 3-day safari adventure. Despite its short duration, this tour offers a rich and immersive experience in Tanzania’s wilderness, providing memories that will last a lifetime.
Highlights:
- Early morning game drive in Tarangire National Park
- Last chance to spot lions, elephants, and other wildlife
- Scenic drive back to Arusha
- Drop-off at hotel or airport
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Lake Manyara and Tarangire?
The best time to visit both parks is during the dry season (June to October), when wildlife congregates around water sources, making animals easier to spot. However, these parks can be visited year-round, with the green season (November to May) offering lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
What wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?
You’ll have the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and hippos. Lake Manyara is known for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos, while Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds and towering baobab trees.
What should I pack for the safari?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. Mornings and evenings can be cool, so bring a warm jacket. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
Is this safari suitable for families?
Yes, this safari is family-friendly and suitable for children. However, some lodges and camps may have age restrictions for younger children, so it’s important to check with your tour operator before booking.
What accommodation options are available during this safari?
This safari offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges like Lake Manyara Serena Lodge and Tarangire Treetops to more midrange and budget-friendly camps such as Kirurumu Manyara Tented Camp and Whistling Thorn Tented Camp. All accommodations provide comfortable amenities and are located within or near the parks for easy access to game drives.
Can I take photos during the safari?
Yes, photography is encouraged during the safari, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture stunning wildlife and landscapes. However, be mindful of using flash photography, as it can disturb the animals. Make sure your camera batteries are fully charged, and bring extra memory cards.
This 3 Days Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park Tour is the perfect way to experience Tanzania’s incredible wildlife and scenic beauty in a short amount of time. From the tree-climbing lions and flamingos of Lake Manyara to the elephants and baobabs of Tarangire, this safari promises a thrilling and immersive journey through two of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks. Whether you’re new to safaris or returning for another adventure, this tour provides a rich and memorable wildlife experience.
