Overview

Tucked between the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the vast lake it’s named after, Lake Manyara National Park is a jewel of contrasts—lush forests, shimmering waters, and open plains all within a compact area. This picturesque park offers a safari experience that feels intimate and full of surprises. Whether it’s watching elephants wander beneath mahogany trees or flamingos painting the lake pink, Manyara captivates with its harmony of scenery and wildlife.

Highlights & Attractions

The park’s stunning diversity makes every moment memorable. The groundwater forest, alive with blue monkeys and baboons, quickly gives way to open savannahs where giraffes and buffalo graze. The alkaline lake, stretching across the horizon, attracts thousands of flamingos and countless waterbirds. Visitors can also enjoy the elevated Treetop Canopy Walk—one of Tanzania’s most unique safari experiences—offering breathtaking views from above the forest floor.

Wildlife & Activities

Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior that continues to intrigue visitors. The park is also home to large elephant families, hippos wallowing in the water, and troops of baboons among the largest ever recorded. Birdwatchers are in paradise here, with over 400 species thriving in this compact habitat. Game drives, walking safaris, and cultural tours to the nearby Mto wa Mbu village offer a perfect blend of adventure and authenticity.

Best Time to Visit

Lake Manyara is a year-round destination, each season offering a different charm. The dry season (June to October) is best for spotting large mammals near the lake and on the open plains, while the green season (November to May) transforms the park into a lush haven with vibrant birdlife and dramatic cloudscapes over the Rift Valley.

Getting There

Located just 125 km (about 2 hours) west of Arusha, Lake Manyara is easily accessible by road en route to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Daily flights also connect the park’s airstrip to Arusha and other safari destinations, making it a perfect first or last stop on any northern Tanzania safari circuit.