Safari Ngorongoro Crater
From$2,140/person
mid range
7-Day Great Migration River Crossing Safari in Tanzania
7D / 6NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
Safari comparison
Lake Manyara National Park vs Tarangire National Park
Two of East Africa's most sought-after safari destinations — but which is right for you? Here's how Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park compare on wildlife, season, climate and price.
At a glance
FeatureLake Manyara National ParkTarangire National Park
Country
Tanzania
Tanzania
Region
Tanzania
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Best time to visit
<h3>June to October (Best for Wildlife)</h3><ul><li><p>Excellent game viewing</p></li><li><p>Pleasant weather</p></li><l…
<p>Tarangire National Park can be visited throughout the year, but the dry season from June to October offers the best w…
Climate
<h3>Dry Season (June to October)</h3><ul><li><p>Sunny days with little rainfall</p></li><li><p>Cooler mornings and eveni…
<p>Tarangire National Park experiences a warm tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. The park remains acces…
Terrain
Savannah Grasslands, Dense Bushland, Riverine Forest
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Area size
—
—
Elevation
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Safaris from
On request
$2,140
Available safaris
0 trips
8 trips
Wildlife species
6
10
Lodges & camps
3
5
Wildlife
Key species at each destination. Gold = found at both.
Lake Manyara National Park
About Lake Manyara National Park
Discover the beauty of Lake Manyara National Park, one of Tanzania's most scenic wildlife destinations! Famous for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, thousands of flamingos, and lush groundwater forests, this spectacular park offers unforgettable game drives, birdwatching, and breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley. Experience nature at its finest with Imara Africa Safaris!
- Big Five game viewing
- Photography opportunities
- Predator sightings
- Scenic landscapes
About Tarangire National Park
Discover Tarangire National Park, one of Tanzania's most spectacular wildlife destinations, renowned for its enormous elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and exceptional wildlife diversity. Located in the heart of Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit, the park offers unforgettable game viewing experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and a peaceful safari atmosphere away from larger crowds. Visitors can encounter elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and hundreds of bird species while exploring one of East Africa's most scenic and wildlife-rich national parks.
- Big Five game viewing
- Photography opportunities
- Cultural encounters
- Scenic landscapes
- Birdwatching paradise
Safaris in Tarangire National Park
Safari
Safari Serengeti National Park
From$2,647/person
mid range
9-Day Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday
9D / 8NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
Beach & Safari Ngorongoro Crater
From$3,000/person
mid range
8-Day Mid-Range Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday
8D / 7NDuration
PrivateGroup
All year round
Free cancellation · Local experts · Customisable
The verdict
Both Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park are world-class. Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania is known for its big five game viewing, while Tarangire National Park in Tanzania stands out for its big five game viewing.
Can't decide? Many travellers visit both on one multi-destination itinerary — we'll craft the perfect safari that includes the best of each.
Frequently asked
Is Lake Manyara National Park or Tarangire National Park better for a safari?+
Both are excellent. Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania is known for big five game viewing, while Tarangire National Park in Tanzania stands out for big five game viewing. The right choice depends on your interests, season and budget — and many travellers combine both.
When is the best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park?+
<h3>June to October (Best for Wildlife)</h3><ul><li><p>Excellent game viewing</p></li><li><p>Pleasant weather</p></li><li><p>Easier wildlife spotting due to shorter vegetation</p></li><li><p>Ideal for photography</p></li></ul><h3>November to February (Best for Birdwatching)</h3><ul><li><p>Thousands…
Can I combine Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park in one trip?+
Yes. Imara Africa Safaris can build a combined itinerary featuring both Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park, handling all transfers, lodges and logistics so you experience the best of each in a single seamless safari.