Lake Manyara national park

Lake Manyara National Park is a scenic gem in northern Tanzania, renowned for its diverse landscapes, tree-climbing lions, large flocks of flamingos, and the picturesque alkaline lake that attracts an abundance of wildlife and bird species.

Overview

Cradled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is a compact yet diverse safari destination offering a blend of breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. Famous for its tree-climbing lions and large troops of baboons, the park features lush groundwater forests, open savannah, and the shimmering alkaline lake that draws flamingos and countless bird species. With its dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity, Lake Manyara offers an unforgettable introduction to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.

Activities

Game Drives, Bird Watching, Canoeing (seasonal), Nature Walks, Treetop Canopy Walk, Cultural Visits to Mto wa Mbu Village.

Best Time To Go

The ideal time to visit Lake Manyara National Park is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around the lake and other water sources. These months offer clear skies, excellent game viewing and more comfortable road conditions for safari drives. While the park is open year-round, the wet season from November to May transforms the landscape into a lush green haven, ideal for bird watching as migratory species arrive and the lake fills with flamingos—offering a quieter, more scenic experience for nature lovers.

Sightings

In Lake Manyara National Park, you can encounter a remarkable variety of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, giraffes, and the park’s famous tree-climbing lions, all thriving in diverse habitats ranging from dense groundwater forests to open grassy plains. The alkaline lake attracts thousands of flamingos and over 400 bird species, creating a vibrant spectacle of color and sound against the backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment and the shimmering waters of Lake Manyara.

Interaction

Visitors to Lake Manyara National Park enjoy a diverse range of safari experiences, including up-close encounters with elephants, hippos and the park’s renowned tree-climbing lions. Scenic game drives reveal a mosaic of landscapes, from lush forests and open savannah to the shimmering alkaline lake, while birdwatchers delight in spotting flamingos and hundreds of other avian species. Cultural visits to nearby communities also offer meaningful insights into local traditions and life along the Great Rift Valley.

Highlights

Step into the natural wonder of Lake Manyara National Park, where lush groundwater forests give way to open plains and the glistening shores of an alkaline lake. From witnessing tree-climbing lions lounging in ancient mahogany trees to flocks of flamingos painting the lake pink, every moment in Manyara captures the essence of Tanzania’s ecological diversity and quiet safari charm.

Tree Climbing Lions

One of the park’s most famous sights, these rare lions can often be seen lounging in acacia trees, offering a unique wildlife viewing experience found in only a few places in Africa.

Lake Manyara

The alkaline lake attracts thousands of flamingos and over 400 other bird species, creating a spectacular scene for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

Top Manyara Tours and Safaris

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Accomodation Options

Set against the backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, the lodges and camps around Lake Manyara National Park offer a seamless blend of wilderness luxury and natural tranquility. Elevated suites and tented accommodations are often perched along forested ridges or overlooking the shimmering lake, providing panoramic views of the diverse landscape and roaming wildlife below. Guests enjoy locally inspired cuisine served in open-air dining spaces or under starry skies, all while surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature and the untamed beauty of one of Tanzania’s most enchanting safari destinations.