Lake Tagalala
Ziwa Tagalala
The largest lake in the northern safari zone, famous for its crocodile and hippo numbers. Dead trees around the shore are crowded with storks and fish eagles, and the scenery is wide open.
Lake Tagalala lies south of the Rufiji River and is one of the largest lakes in the photographic safari zone. It was formed when the river changed course, and its shores are surrounded by swamps, grasslands, and dead palm trees. The lake holds an astonishing number of crocodiles and hippos, and elephant herds, buffalo, and giraffes often gather along the shore. Waterbirds such as yellow-billed storks, African fish eagles, and cormorants perch in the dead trees in the middle of the lake, making it a favorite of photographers. There is a public campsite by the lake. Game drives can return the same day from the Manze Lake area, and the lake is often combined with the Maji Moto hot springs to the south. A park conservation fee applies (foreign visitors about US$70 per person per day and up, plus VAT, subject to the Tanzania National Parks Authority's published rates).
Opening hours
Daytime (game drives 6:00 AM–6:30 PM)