Birding safaris at Lake Manyara and Tarangire

Getting on a birding safari in Tanzania’s Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks is an adventure into the heart of avian diversity. These parks, part of the northern safari circuit, are renowned not only for their big game but also for their rich bird populations, making them a paradise for birdwatchers. Lake Manyara, with its unique alkaline lake and varied habitats from acacia woodlands to lush forests, hosts over 300 bird species, including some rare and endangered birds. Tarangire, on the other hand, is famous for its baobab-studded landscapes and is a haven for both resident and migratory birds, boasting over 500 species.

Lake Manyara National Park is particularly celebrated for its flamingo spectacle, where thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of these pink wonders gather, creating a visual feast. The park is also a critical habitat for several endangered species like the Rufous-tailed Weaver, Ashy Starling, and Black-collared Lovebird. The diversity here is astounding, with raptors, water birds, and forest dwellers sharing the landscape with large mammals like elephants and tree-climbing lions.

Tarangire National Park complements this with its own avian stars. Here, you can spot the world’s largest birds, ostriches, alongside the heaviest flying birds, the Kori Bustards. The park’s environment, which includes riverine habitats, swamps, and acacia woodlands, supports a myriad of bird species, from colorful barbets and rollers to various hornbills and kingfishers, each bringing its own flair to the park’s ecosystem.

Both parks benefit from being part of larger ecological systems, with Lake Manyara connected to migration routes and Tarangire named after its life-giving river. These natural corridors and water sources are pivotal in supporting such a rich birdlife, making these parks not just scenic but also ecologically significant.

Location

• Lake Manyara National Park: Located in the Arusha Region of Tanzania, just 126 km southwest of Arusha town, this park lies along the Great Rift Valley escarpment, offering stunning views and habitats.
• Tarangire National Park: Situated in the Manyara Region, approximately 118 km southwest of Arusha, Tarangire is famous for its baobab trees and the Tarangire River, which runs through the park.

Both parks are accessible from Arusha, making them convenient for those on a northern Tanzania safari itinerary.

Day Tour and Itinerary

A birding safari in these parks might look like this:

• Morning in Lake Manyara:
  • Early Start: Begin with an early morning game drive, focusing on birding around the lake where you might see large flocks of flamingos.
  • Forest Walk: Engage in a guided walk through the park’s forest areas to spot species like the Silvery-cheeked Hornbill and Schalow’s Turaco.
• Midday Transition:
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic or lunch at a designated area, possibly discussing the morning’s sightings.
• Afternoon in Tarangire:
  • Game Drive: Drive through varying landscapes, from swamps to woodlands, keeping an eye out for unique species like the Lilac-breasted Roller or the Giant Kingfisher.
  • River Birding: Spend time near the Tarangire River for water birds and possibly catch the Southern Ground Hornbill in action.
• Evening:
  • Return: Head back to your accommodation, like MoonBow Lodge, for rest or to engage in evening activities.

Birds of Lake Manyara

• Flamingos dominate the lake’s shores, with both Greater and Lesser Flamingos present.
• Raptors like the Palm-nut Vulture and Ayres’s Hawk-eagle patrol the skies.
• Waterbirds including the Yellow-billed Stork and Pink-backed Pelican are common.
• Endangered Species such as the Grey Crowned Crane can be seen, highlighting conservation efforts.

Birds of Tarangire

• Ostriches and Kori Bustards are emblematic of the park’s vast plains.
• Kingfishers range from the minuscule African Pygmy to the majestic Giant Kingfisher.
• Hornbills with their unique casques, including the Southern Ground Hornbill, add character to the park.
• Endemic Species like the Tanzanian Red-billed Hornbill and Yellow-collared Lovebird provide unique sightings.

What Makes This Tour Unique

• Diverse Habitats: From alkaline lakes to riverine forests, the variety of ecosystems supports an incredible array of bird species.
• Migratory and Resident Birds: The combination of year-round residents and seasonal migrants offers different birding experiences throughout the year.
• Cultural and Natural Fusion: The parks are not only birdwatching spots but also gateways to understanding Tanzania’s broader ecological and cultural tapestry.
• Educational Experience: Guides knowledgeable in ornithology can provide insights into behavior, habitats, and conservation, making your tour informative.
• Conservation Efforts: Visiting these parks supports conservation, as your entrance fees contribute to wildlife protection.

Accommodation at MoonBow Lodge

After a day of birdwatching:

• Comfort: Enjoy the comfort of rooms with a touch of Tanzanian culture, offering a peaceful retreat.
• Culinary Experience: Dine on meals that might include local flavors, reflecting the day’s birding adventures in taste.
• Further Exploration: The lodge can arrange additional birding tours or cultural experiences, keeping the adventure alive.
• Nature’s Proximity: Being near both parks, MoonBow offers easy access to more birding or simply enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Cultural Engagement: Evening discussions or cultural shows can enrich your understanding of the region, complementing your day’s birdwatching.

Best time for bird watching

Times for Birdwatching at Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara National Park, set at the foot of the Great Rift Valley, is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 400 species amid its alkaline lake, woodlands, and plains. With Mawe Lodges’ strategic locations at Baobab Camp in Tarangire and Karatu Tented Lodge, you have the perfect launchpad for your birdwatching escapade. Here’s how to plan your visit for the best birdwatching experience:

Peak Birdwatching Season (November to June):

• Migratory Birds (November to March): This time sees an influx of birds from Europe and northern Africa, including the striking Eurasian Roller, White Storks, and the elusive Lesser Flamingo.
• Resident Birds’ Breeding Season (March to June): It’s a spectacle of nature as local species like the Lilac-breasted Roller and the African Fish Eagle engage in courtship and breeding, showcasing their vibrant plumage.

Off-Peak Birdwatching (July to October):

• Even in the drier months, Lake Manyara doesn’t disappoint. Expect to see large gatherings of flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants. The woodlands come alive with the calls of the Silvery-cheeked Hornbill and the Narina Trogon.

Tips for an Enriching Birdwatching Experience:

• Local Guide: Our knowledgeable guides at Mawe Lodges are adept at spotting rare birds and know the prime birdwatching locations and times.
• Gear Up: Equip yourself with good binoculars, a local bird guidebook, and wear suitable, subdued clothing with comfortable footwear.
• Embrace Flexibility: Nature’s beauty is in its spontaneity; the best birdwatching moments often come unannounced.