If your itinerary only has room for one of these two, here’s how we’d decide.
Choose Tarangire if…
- You want elephants. In the dry season the herds along the Tarangire River are among the biggest in East Africa.
- You’re a birder. Tarangire has Tanzanian endemics, including Ashy Starling and Yellow-collared Lovebird, and a huge range of dry-country species.
- You like landscape. Ancient baobabs, open river valleys and swamps make it one of the most photogenic parks in Tanzania.
- You’re travelling between June and October, when the wildlife gathers at the river.
Choose Lake Manyara if…
- You have half a day rather than a full one. It’s compact and easy to see well.
- You want waterbirds. Pelicans, storks, flamingos and waders line the lakeshore.
- You’d like a green, shady forest drive, with baboons and blue monkeys all around.
- You’re visiting in the wet season, when the forest and lake are at their best.
What about the tree-climbing lions?
Manyara is famous for them, and they do climb. But you shouldn’t choose the park just for them. Lions climb trees in Tarangire and the Serengeti too, and nowhere is it guaranteed.
Our honest view
For most people, and almost every birder, Tarangire gives more for the time spent. If you have an extra afternoon, do both. They’re close together and on the way to the crater.
Read more in our Tarangire guide and Lake Manyara guide.
Your questions answered
How far apart are they?
About an hour’s drive. Many itineraries do Tarangire one day and Manyara the next on the way to Karatu.
Can I do Tarangire as a day trip from Arusha?
Yes, it’s about two hours each way. Our 2-day safari combines it with the crater.
Which is better in the rainy season?
Lake Manyara is at its best when green. Tarangire’s animals disperse in the rains, but birding is excellent.
