Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment in northern Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is a compact yet remarkably diverse wildlife haven. Famous for its flamingo-filled lake, tree-climbing lions, and lush ecological zones, this park offers a quintessential Tanzanian safari experience within just 325 km²—two-thirds of which is covered by the shimmering lake.
How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park
By Road:
- From Arusha: approximately 2 hours via the well-maintained Arusha–Babati road.
- From Ngorongoro/Serengeti: accessible as part of a northern circuit safari.
By Air:
- Nearest airstrip: Lake Manyara Airstrip (serviced by small chartered planes).
- Nearby major airports: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Arusha Airport (ARK).
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (June to October)
Optimal for game viewing — animals congregate around water sources, roads are dry and easy to navigate, and mosquito activity is lower.
Wet Season (November to May)
Ideal for birdwatching and photography—lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and a peaceful atmosphere. Be prepared for short rains (November–December) and long rains (March–May), which may make some roads muddy.
Wildlife Highlights
Lake Manyara’s rich biodiversity is astonishing for its size. Expect to see tree-climbing lions, hippos, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalos, baboons, and vervet monkeys.
Main Attractions in Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara
A shallow, alkaline lake famed for its vibrant flamingo populations and over 400 bird species—an ornithologist’s paradise.Tree-Climbing Lions
A rare and intriguing sight—lions resting comfortably in acacia trees, a behaviour unique to a few locations in Africa.Diverse Wildlife
From elephants and buffalo to diverse antelope species, along with enormous herds of baboons, the park teems with life.Groundwater Forest
Densely packed with ancient fig and mahogany trees, this cool refuge is home to blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, and a myriad of bird species, adding a jungle-like element.Hot Springs (Maji Moto)
Located in the southern part, these geothermal springs release mineral-rich, steaming water—perfect for a scenic stop, though swimming isn’t recommended.Rift Valley Escarpment
A dramatic feature offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.Hippo Pool
A favourite spot for wildlife photography, where you can observe hippos cooling off in their natural habitat.
Activities in Lake Manyara
- Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse habitats and see wildlife up close, both in the early morning and late afternoon.
- Bird Watching: Over 400 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and fish eagles.
- Canoeing (Seasonal): Glide silently along the lake’s edge to observe birds and terrestrial animals.
- Nature & Forest Walks: Guided walks around groundwater forests reveal the small details of this rich ecosystem.
- Visit Maji Moto Hot Springs to witness geothermal activity and enjoy scenic picnics.
- Cultural Tours (Nearby Mto wa Mbu): Experience local Tanzanian culture through village visits, craft markets, and food tasting.
- Treetop Canopy Walk: Suspended bridges through the canopy for bird and monkey watching.
- Night Game Drives (Optional): With authorised operators, spot nocturnal species like bush babies, genets, and maybe even leopards.
Where to Stay at Lake Manyara National Park
Options inside the park provide early access to game drives and an immersive wilderness experience. Outside the park, budget-friendly lodges and family accommodations offer easy access and cultural experiences.
Planning Your Lake Manyara Safari
Start with a clear idea of what you want from your safari—whether it’s spotting the Big Five, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the scenery. Choose the best time to visit, select accommodations, and craft an itinerary tailored to your interests.
At Kanuth Adventure Safari, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—helping you choose the right safari style, ideal travel dates, and accommodations that fit your budget.
Ready to Begin Your Lake Manyara Adventure?
Contact us today through WhatsApp number +255 754 967544 or visit www.kanuthadventures.com to start planning your unforgettable Tanzanian safari!
