Lake Manyara National Park
Tanzania’s Scenic Safari Escape
Introduction
The Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most beautiful and diverse safari destinations, offering a unique blend of landscapes within a relatively small area.
Located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, just a short drive from Arusha, this park covers approximately 330 square kilometers, with nearly two-thirds occupied by the alkaline Lake Manyara.
Despite its size, Lake Manyara is packed with wildlife, birdlife, and stunning scenery, making it a perfect addition to any northern Tanzania safari.
Why Visit Lake Manyara National Park?
Lake Manyara is ideal for travelers looking for a compact yet rewarding safari experience.
Top Reasons to Visit
- Famous tree-climbing lions
- Large flocks of flamingos
- Diverse ecosystems in one park
- Excellent for short safaris (1–2 days)
- Scenic beauty with escarpment views
Tree-Climbing Lions of Lake Manyara
One of the most unique highlights of the Lake Manyara National Park is its famous tree-climbing lions.
What Makes Them Special
- Lions resting on acacia tree branches
- Rare behavior not commonly seen elsewhere
- Great for photography and unique sightings
While not guaranteed, spotting these lions is a special and memorable experience.
Wildlife in Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara offers a rich variety of animals within a compact area.
Animals You Can See
- Elephants (large populations)
- Lions (including tree-climbing lions)
- Buffalo, giraffes, zebras
- Hippos in forest pools
- Baboons and blue monkeys
The park is especially known for its large troops of baboons, often seen near the entrance.
Birdlife in Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara is a paradise for bird lovers.
Highlights
- Thousands of flamingos along the Lake Manyara
- Over 400 bird species
- Pelicans, storks, herons
- Hornbills and kingfishers
Seasonal changes affect bird concentrations, but birdwatching is excellent year-round.
Unique Landscapes of Lake Manyara
The diversity of scenery is what makes Lake Manyara truly special.
What You’ll Experience
- Groundwater forests
- Open grasslands
- Acacia woodlands
- The alkaline Lake Manyara
- The dramatic Great Rift Valley escarpment
Few parks in Tanzania offer such varied ecosystems in a single day.
Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara
Dry Season (June – October)
- Best for wildlife viewing
- Animals easier to spot
- Less vegetation
Green Season (November – May)
- Best for birdwatching and flamingos
- Lush landscapes and fewer tourists
- Great for photography
Safari Activities in Lake Manyara
Game Drives
Enjoy half-day or full-day game drives through diverse habitats.
Canoeing (Seasonal)
When water levels allow, canoeing on Lake Manyara offers a unique perspective.
Cultural Tours
Visit nearby villages and interact with local communities.
Accommodation in Lake Manyara
There are several accommodation options both inside and near the park.
Options Include
- Luxury lodges with escarpment views
- Mid-range lodges
- Budget campsites
Many lodges are located in the nearby town of Mto wa Mbu.
How to Get to Lake Manyara
- Approximately 2 hours by road from Arusha
- Easily combined with Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
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