Night game drives offer a thrilling opportunity to experience the nocturnal world of Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks. Unlike traditional daytime safaris, these adventures allow you to witness the unique behaviors of wildlife that become active after sunset.

What to Expect

• Unique Wildlife Encounters: During a night game drive, you have the chance to see animals that are rarely spotted during the day. Nocturnal creatures like leopards, hyenas, bush babies, and aardvarks come out to hunt and forage, while larger animals such as elephants and hippos can be seen in a different light as they move about under the cover of darkness.

• Specialized Equipment: The drives are conducted using vehicles equipped with spotlights to illuminate the animals without disturbing them. These lights are handled by experienced guides who know how to spot and identify animals in the dark, enhancing your safari experience.

• Atmospheric Experience: The atmosphere of the African bush at night is completely different from the day. The sounds of the wild become more pronounced, with the calls of night birds and the rustle of leaves creating an immersive and exhilarating environment.

Safety Measures

Night game drives are conducted by professional guides trained to navigate the bush safely at night. Vehicles are equipped with safety features, and guides are knowledgeable about animal behavior to ensure the safety of guests. Visitors are advised to stay within the vehicle at all times and follow the guide’s instructions to maintain a safe and respectful distance from wildlife.

Temperatures

Temperatures during the night in Tarangire and Lake Manyara can drop significantly compared to the daytime. It’s important to dress in layers to stay comfortable, as the nights can be quite cool, especially in open vehicles. Bringing a warm jacket or fleece is recommended, along with a hat and gloves if you tend to feel the cold.

Who Conducts Night Game Drives?

• Tarangire National Park: Night game drives in Tarangire are typically conducted by licensed tour operators and lodges within or near the park. Some well-known lodges, like Tarangire Treetops, offer exclusive night drives for their guests. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the behaviors of nocturnal wildlife.

• Lake Manyara National Park: Night drives in Lake Manyara are managed by tour operators and select lodges, such as the Lake Manyara Tree Lodge. The Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) also authorizes certain operators to conduct these special drives, ensuring that they adhere to guidelines that protect the environment and wildlife.

Practical Information

• Duration: Night game drives usually last about 2 to 3 hours, starting shortly after sunset.

• Booking: It’s advisable to book in advance, as night game drives are a popular activity with limited availability.

• Restrictions: Night game drives are typically limited to specific areas within the parks to minimize disturbance to the wildlife.