Birding in Lake Manyara and Tarangire
Birdwatching Tanzania. Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks are among Tanzania’s most rewarding destinations for birdwatchers. Together, they form part of the Northern Safari Circuit, offering spectacular scenery, diverse habitats, and an extraordinary variety of birdlife.
Between them, these parks boast over 500 recorded bird species, ranging from delicate flamingos and bee-eaters to powerful eagles and vultures. Whether you’re an avid ornithologist or a nature enthusiast with a camera, birding in Lake Manyara and Tarangire promises unforgettable encounters with Africa’s winged wonders.
Lake Manyara National Park – The Flamingo Haven
Overview
Located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is a small but stunning reserve known for its lush forests, alkaline lake, and scenic diversity. Covering about 330 square kilometers, two-thirds of which is the shimmering Lake Manyara itself, the park provides a perfect habitat for waterbirds and forest species alike.
The contrast between the evergreen groundwater forest, acacia woodlands, and the lake’s open shores creates a unique ecological zone where hundreds of bird species thrive year-round.
Birdlife in Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara is a birdwatching paradise. Over 400 bird species have been recorded, including both resident and migratory species.
Waterbirds and Flamingos
The alkaline lake attracts thousands of lesser and greater flamingos, which feed on the algae and crustaceans in its shallow waters. Depending on water levels, the lake can appear painted pink by their presence — a mesmerizing sight at sunrise.
Other waterbirds include:
- Pelicans gliding gracefully across the lake
- Yellow-billed storks, spoonbills, and egrets wading along the shores
- African fish eagles swooping for their catch
Forest and Woodland Birds
The park’s dense groundwater forests are home to hornbills, turacos, and barbets. Notable species include:
- Silvery-cheeked hornbill
- Crowned hornbill
- African emerald cuckoo
- Narina trogon
In the acacia woodlands, look for lilac-breasted rollers, superb starlings, and colorful bee-eaters flitting through the branches.
Raptors and Migratory Birds
Raptors such as palm-nut vultures, martial eagles, and Bateleur eagles patrol the skies, while migratory birds from Europe and Asia arrive between November and April, adding seasonal diversity.
Best Time for Birding in Lake Manyara
The best time for birding in Lake Manyara is during the wet season (November to May).
- Migratory species are present.
- The lake fills up, attracting large flocks of flamingos and pelicans.
- The park is lush and green, enhancing the birdwatching and photography experience.
However, even in the dry season (June to October), resident species remain abundant, and visibility along the shores improves as water levels drop.
Tarangire National Park – The Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Overview
Just a short drive from Lake Manyara lies Tarangire National Park, one of Tanzania’s most underrated gems. Covering approximately 2,850 square kilometers, Tarangire is famous for its giant baobab trees, large elephant herds, and incredible bird diversity.
The Tarangire River, which flows year-round, acts as a magnet for both mammals and birds, especially during the dry season. For birders, Tarangire offers a mixture of acacia woodlands, riverine forests, swamps, and open grasslands — each attracting different species.
Birdlife in Tarangire National Park
With over 550 recorded species, Tarangire ranks among the best birdwatching destinations in East Africa.
Dry Country Specialists
Tarangire’s semi-arid environment is home to many species not commonly found elsewhere in northern Tanzania, making it a must-visit for serious birders.
Notable dry-country birds include:
- Yellow-collared lovebird (Tarangire’s endemic species)
- Ashy starling
- Northern white-crowned shrike
- Von der Decken’s hornbill
- Red-and-yellow barbet
Raptors and Large Birds
Tarangire is a raptor haven. Soaring above the baobab trees, you can spot:
- Martial eagle
- Bateleur eagle
- African hawk-eagle
- Augur buzzard
- Lappet-faced vulture
The park also shelters large ground birds such as:
- Kori bustard (Tanzania’s national bird)
- Southern ground hornbill
- Ostrich, often seen striding across the plains
Wetland and Swamp Birds
During the green season, the Tarangire swamps fill with water and attract a vibrant mix of waterbirds, including:
- Great white pelican
- African jacana
- Saddle-billed stork
- Whiskered tern
Migratory Birds
From November to April, Tarangire hosts migratory species from Europe and Asia. Look out for Eurasian rollers, swallows, and bee-eaters, which brighten the landscape with their colors and calls.
Best Time for Birding in Tarangire
Birding is excellent year-round, but the green season (November to April) is best for bird diversity.
- Migratory species are present.
- Breeding plumage enhances colors for photography.
- Swamps fill with water, attracting waders and storks.
The dry season (June to October) remains ideal for combining birding with big game viewing, as animals concentrate along the Tarangire River.
Comparing Birding in Lake Manyara and Tarangire
| Feature | Lake Manyara National Park | Tarangire National Park |
| Number of Bird Species | 400+ | 550+ |
| Best Time to Visit | November–May | November–April |
| Highlight Species | Flamingos, Pelicans, Hornbills, Fish Eagles | Lovebirds, Kori Bustards, Raptors, Ground Hornbills |
| Habitats | Alkaline Lake, Forest, Grassland | Savannah, Woodlands, Riverine Forest, Swamps |
| Extra Attraction | Tree-climbing Lions, Scenic Rift Valley | Giant Baobabs, Massive Elephant Herds |
Both parks complement each other perfectly — Manyara for waterbirds and forest species, Tarangire for dry-country specialists and raptors. Together, they create one of the richest birding circuits in East Africa.
Birding Tips for Lake Manyara and Tarangire
- Carry binoculars (8×40 or higher) and a field guide for East African birds.
- The early morning and late afternoon are best for bird activity.
- Wear neutral-colored clothing and avoid bright colors that can startle birds.
- Bring a camera with a telephoto lens (300mm+) for detailed photography.
- Travel with an experienced birding guide who knows local calls and habitats.
Combining Birding with Safari Adventures
Both Lake Manyara and Tarangire can be explored together as part of a Northern Tanzania safari itinerary. They are conveniently located between Arusha and the Ngorongoro–Serengeti ecosystem, making them easy to include in a multi-park tour.
You can combine:
- Birding in Manyara and Tarangire
- Big Five viewing in Ngorongoro
- The Great Migration in the Serengeti
This creates a well-rounded safari experience that blends wildlife diversity with the peaceful joy of birdwatching.
Conclusion
Birding in Lake Manyara and Tarangire is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. From the pink hues of flamingos in Manyara’s shimmering waters to the lovebirds and raptors of Tarangire’s golden plains, these parks offer one of the richest birding experiences in East Africa.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a first-time traveler with a curiosity for nature, the variety and beauty of Tanzania’s birdlife will leave you inspired.