Lake Manyara National Park
Northern Destination
About Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park, covering 330 square kilometers, is located in the Great Rift Valley, easily accessible from Arusha and Serengeti National Park. The park is best known for its picturesque scenery, where the turquoise waters of Lake Manyara contrast with the surrounding lush forests and acacia woodlands.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife and is a prime destination for those looking to experience both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
What makes Lake Manyara National Park special is its incredible diversity. From its famous tree-climbing lions to the large flocks of flamingos on the lake, visitors are treated to a rare combination of wildlife and spectacular views, making it one of the top places for safaris in Tanzania.
Attractions Found in Lake Manyara National Park
The park’s namesake, Lake Manyara is a shallow, alkaline lake that attracts a wide variety of birds, particularly flamingos, and other migratory species. The lake’s stunning backdrop and abundance of birdlife make it one of the premier birdwatching locations in Tanzania.
One of the park’s most unique attractions is the elusive tree-climbing lions. While lions are typically found on the ground, Lake Manyara’s lions are famous for their habit of lounging in the branches of acacia trees. These lions are rarely found in other parks and are a special sight to see.
The park is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, providing visitors with breathtaking views and spectacular photo opportunities. The escarpment offers sweeping vistas over the park and Lake Manyara.
Lake Manyara is home to over 400 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Visitors can see flocks of flamingos, herons, storks, and the rare African Fish Eagle, among other species.
The park hosts a variety of wildlife including elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, impalas, and baboons. The mix of forest, savannah, and wetland ecosystems makes it an excellent place to see a range of species.
Activities to Do in Lake Manyara National Park
Game Drives
Explore the park’s diverse landscapes on a game drive. Whether you’re in search of tree-climbing lions, elephants, or birds, a game drive in Lake Manyara is a fantastic way to experience the park's wildlife. A morning or evening game drive provides the best chance to spot predators and a variety of herbivores.
Birdwatching
Lake Manyara is an exceptional destination for bird enthusiasts. The park's vast wetlands, forested areas, and the lake itself provide habitats for thousands of bird species. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching from various points around the park, particularly near the lake, where flamingos and migratory birds flock.
Cultural Tours
Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting nearby villages, where they can learn about the traditions of the Mto wa Mbu community, famous for their agricultural activities and local crafts.
Walking Safaris
Take a guided walking safari through the park with an armed ranger to explore its ecosystems up close. A walking safari offers a unique opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of Lake Manyara National Park in a more intimate way.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Experience Lake Manyara from the water with a canoeing or kayaking trip. The lake’s peaceful waters offer a tranquil way to enjoy the surrounding landscapes and spot wildlife from a different perspective.
Weather and Climate at Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park enjoys a tropical climate, with a mix of wet and dry seasons. The park can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on the type of safari experience you’re looking for.
- Dry Season (June to October): The dry season is the best time for wildlife viewing. The weather is sunny and dry, and animals tend to congregate near water sources, making them easier to spot. The temperature is warm during the day, and cool in the evenings.
- Rainy Season (November to May): The rainy season brings lush green landscapes, and while the park can be a little muddy and some roads may be inaccessible, the rainy season is perfect for birdwatchers. Migratory birds flock to Lake Manyara during this time, and the park’s flora is lush and vibrant.
How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is located in northern Tanzania, making it easily accessible from major safari hubs such as Arusha and Serengeti National Park. The park is approximately a 2-hour drive from Arusha, which is connected by both road and air to other key destinations in Tanzania.
- By Road: The easiest way to reach Lake Manyara National Park is by road from Arusha. You can also drive from Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or other nearby parks. Sky Wanders Safaris provides private transfers and guided game drives to and from the park.
- By Air: For those flying into Tanzania, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the closest major international airport, about a 2-hour drive to the park. There are also several airstrips near Lake Manyara for domestic flights, including the Lake Manyara Airstrip, which is a short drive from the park’s entrance.
