Lake Manyara National Park

Overview

A Hidden Gem in the Great Rift Valley 

Nestled at the foot of the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment in northern Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is a stunning oasis known for its breathtaking natural beauty and ecological diversity. Stretching across approximately 330 square kilometers, the park is a compact but richly rewarding destination that forms part of the renowned northern safari circuit. What sets Lake Manyara apart is its varied terrain, ranging from evergreen groundwater forests and open savannahs to wetlands and the shimmering alkaline lake itself, which covers about 200 square kilometers.

Renowned for its lush greenery fed by underground springs and its remarkable biodiversity, Lake Manyara offers a perfect blend of wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and unique experiences. It’s the kind of destination that appeals to nature lovers, birdwatchers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience authentic Tanzanian wildlife in a quieter, less crowded setting.

Wildlife

One of the most iconic sights in Lake Manyara is its population of tree-climbing lions—a rare behavior not commonly observed elsewhere in Africa. The park is also home to a wide variety of animals, including:-

• Elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, warthogs, giraffes (including unusually dark-skinned older males)
• Baboons and both blue and vervet monkeys, especially near the forested park entrance
• Large mammals like leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and servals (though they are more elusive here than in other parks)
• Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher's paradise, boasting over 400 species of birds. Even casual observers can spot over 100 species in a single day, with highlights including flamingos, pelicans, storks, Egyptian geese, sacred ibis, and cormorants.

When to Visit

Lake Manyara National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience:

• Dry Season (June to October): Ideal for game viewing, as animals gather around water sources and the vegetation is less dense.
• Wet Season (November to May): Perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the park’s lush, green landscapes. This is when migratory birds arrive, and the lake is at its fullest, enabling activities like canoeing (if water levels are sufficient).

Excursion and Activities in Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara offers a diverse range of activities beyond the traditional game drive:

• Day and night game drives: Explore different wildlife behaviors and spot nocturnal animals after sunset.
• Canoeing (seasonal): Paddle along the lake’s edge when water levels are high enough.
• Walking safaris: Get up close to nature with a guided trek through various terrains.
• Tree Canopy Walkway: A unique aerial experience offering a bird’s-eye view of the forest and its inhabitants.
• Birdwatching tours: Led by experts to help you identify the many species found here.
• Bush meals: Enjoy a gourmet picnic surrounded by nature.
• Cultural excursions in nearby Mto wa Mbu village, where visitors can experience local life through zip-lining, cycling tours, craft markets, and traditional cuisine.

Getting there

Lake Manyara National Park is easily accessible from major travel hubs:

• By road: Just 115 km (about 2 hours) from Arusha on a well-maintained tarmac road.
• By air: Charter flights can be arranged from Arusha and other major airports by your tour operator, landing at the Lake Manyara airstrip near the park.