3 Days Tarangire & Lake Manyara Tour 2026 / 2027 / 2028
Experience rich Tanzanian wildlife in just three days on our 3 Days Tarangire & Lake Manyara Tour 2026/2027/2028. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine two of Tanzania’s iconic parks—Tarangire and Lake Manyara—without the long distances of a full circuit safari. You’ll begin with the sweeping savannas and baobab-dotted landscapes of Tarangire, home to some of the highest elephant densities in Africa, then shift into the lush forests and lakeshore habitats of Manyara, known for its flamingos and tree-climbing lions.
Throughout the safari, we include park fees, meals, lodging, transport, and a seasoned local guide. Unlike many rigid itineraries on big platforms like SafariBookings or Intrepid, we optimize this route to maximize game time and minimize transit. Be sure to check out our other Tanzania safari tours for extension options. For reference on park ecosystems and wildlife diversity, you may explore resources such as the Tanzania National Parks Authority or wildlife conservation sites like Safari Consultants’ Tarangire & Lake Manyara profile.
Join us on this compact yet wildlife-rich journey through two exceptional ecosystems—no rush, just raw nature.
What You’ll Experience:
Three days of game drives in Tarangire and Lake Manyara
Encounters with elephants, lions, leopards, flamingos, tree-climbing lions & diverse birdlife
Budget lodging, meals, park fees, and expert local guide included
Price range starting from USD 450 – 600 (depending on lodging choice)
Highlights:
Dual-park experience: Tarangire & Manyara
Baobabs, Rift Valley escarpment & lakeside ecosystems
Immersive wildlife & birding
Compact, value-driven design
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Tarangire & Afternoon Game Drive
Early morning pickup from Arusha (or your starting point) and depart for Tarangire National Park. Enter just in time for lunch, then rest briefly before heading out for an afternoon game drive. Navigate riverbanks, open plains, and groves of baobabs as wildlife gathers near the Tarangire River. Watch for elephants, zebra, giraffe, buffalo, antelope, and possibly lions. As evening sets in, enjoy sunset scenes, then return to your camp or lodge for dinner and overnight under starry skies.
Day 2: Full Morning & Afternoon in Tarangire + Move to Manyara
Rise early for a morning game drive at prime wildlife activity time. Explore deeper zones you may have missed, seeking predators, monitor lizards, or birdlife. Return for breakfast, then check out and drive toward Lake Manyara National Park. En route, enjoy scenic views of the Rift Valley escarpment. Arrive in Manyara in time for lunch, then undertake an afternoon game drive in Manyara’s unique habitats: lake shores, groundwater forests, and woodlands. Spot flamingos, baboons, elephants, bushbuck, and the famous tree-climbing lions. Overnight at lodge or camp near Manyara.
Day 3: Early Game Drive in Manyara & Return
Wake before dawn for your final morning game drive in Manyara, when wildlife is most active and birds flock early. Traverse marshes, forest trails, lakeshore zones, and open clearings. After breakfast, depart the park and embark on the scenic drive back to Arusha (or your drop-off point). Optional stop at lookout points along the Rift Valley. Arrive mid- to late afternoon, concluding your 3 Days Tarangire & Lake Manyara Tour with lasting wildlife memories and outstanding photography.
What This Tour Offers & Unique Highlights
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Dual-park coverage: both Tarangire and Lake Manyara
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Emphasis on wildlife + birding — elephants, lions, flamingos, tree-climbing lions, giraffes
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All-inclusive pricing: transport, park fees, meals, lodging, and guide
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Choice of budget lodges or camps to suit your comfort level
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Local, experienced guides familiar with both ecosystems
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Minimized transit to maximize game time
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Ideal for travelers wanting a compact but immersive experience
Price Comparison Table
| Option | Lodging Level | Approx Price per Person* | Inclusions | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget / Basic Camps | Rustic tent or basic lodge | USD 450 – 500 | Transport, park fees, meals, guide, 2 nights lodging | Best for budget travellers |
| Standard / Mid-Range | Comfortable lodge with amenities | USD 550 – 600 | Same inclusions + more comfort | Balanced option |
| Private / Custom | Private vehicle, tailor schedule | USD 650+ | Exclusive use, flexible timing | Ideal for couples or private groups |
* Prices are indicative for 2026–2028; final rates depend on season, group size, and lodging choices.
Inclusions
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Pick-up & Drop-off in Arusha or from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
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4×4 Safari Vehicle with Pop-up Roof — ideal for game viewing & photography
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Professional English-Speaking Driver-Guide with extensive wildlife expertise
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All Park Entry Fees to Tarangire & Lake Manyara National Parks
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2 Nights Accommodation in budget lodges or tented camps (twin/double sharing)
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All Meals During Safari (breakfast, lunch, dinner) with bottled drinking water
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Unlimited Game Drives as per itinerary (morning & afternoon sessions)
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Government Taxes & VAT included in total cost
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24/7 Ground Assistance from Paradise Africa Safari’s local operations team
❌ Exclusions
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International & Domestic Flights
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Visa Fees & Travel Insurance (recommended to purchase from home country)
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Soft & Alcoholic Drinks (available at lodges/camps)
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Tips & Gratuities for driver-guide & camp staff (optional but appreciated)
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Personal Items like laundry, souvenirs, and phone/internet usage
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Optional Add-ons: Hot air balloon ride, cultural village visit, or extra night stay
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Pre- or Post-Safari Accommodation in Arusha (can be arranged on request)
Safari Extension Options
You can extend this 3-Day Tarangire & Lake Manyara Safari to include
Ngorongoro Crater
or
Serengeti National Park
for a more comprehensive Northern Tanzania Safari experience.
For official wildlife updates, visit the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is the drive from Arusha to Tarangire and Manyara?
Tarangire is about 2.5–3 hours from Arusha, and Lake Manyara is roughly 1.5 hours away from Tarangire. The route offers scenic countryside and Maasai landscapes.
2. What wildlife will I see in Tarangire and Manyara?
Expect elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and flamingos. Manyara is known for its tree-climbing lions, while Tarangire is famous for large elephant herds and baobab trees.
3. Is this 3-day safari suitable for families and older travelers?
Yes — the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. With minimal walking and plenty of game drives, it’s great for families with kids or elderly guests.
4. When is the best time to visit Tarangire & Lake Manyara?
The dry season (June to October) is best for game viewing as animals gather near water sources. The green season (November to March) brings lush scenery and great birdwatching.
5. Can I combine this tour with Ngorongoro or Serengeti?
Absolutely! You can easily add a day or two to visit Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti National Park. Ask our team for a customized itinerary.
Ready to Book Your 3-Day Tarangire & Lake Manyara Safari Adventure?
Explore the best of Tanzania in just 3 unforgettable days. Witness elephants in Tarangire, flamingos in Lake Manyara, and tree-climbing lions — all guided by our local experts.
Enjoy flexible booking options, secure payments, and personalised service from Paradise Africa Safari.
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