Lake Manyara National Park

Located along Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit, Lake Manyara National Park is often the first wildlife destination visitors explore before continuing to the Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti National Park. From lush groundwater forests and open grasslands to acacia woodlands, hot springs, and the shimmering soda lake, the park offers remarkable diversity within a relatively compact area. Whether you are visiting for a day trip or including it as part of a longer safari, Lake Manyara delivers an authentic African wildlife experience that consistently exceeds expectations.

Why Visit Lake Manyara National Park?

Lake Manyara National Park is celebrated for offering an extraordinary variety of habitats and wildlife within a small area. Every game drive presents something different, from elephants walking beneath giant mahogany trees to hippos relaxing in pools and flamingos painting the shoreline pink. The park’s changing landscapes create excellent photographic opportunities while providing habitats for hundreds of animal and bird species.

One of Lake Manyara’s greatest attractions is its famous tree climbing lions, a rare behavior found in only a few places in Africa. Combined with excellent birdwatching, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds than some of Tanzania’s larger parks, Lake Manyara is an excellent choice for first time safari travelers, photographers, families, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Lake Manyara National Park is perfect for:

• Wildlife lovers
• Birdwatchers
• Nature photographers
• Families on safari
• First time visitors to Tanzania
• Northern Circuit safari itineraries
• Short and day safaris from Arusha

Top Attractions in Lake Manyara National Park

1. Tree Climbing Lions

Lake Manyara is one of the few places in Africa where lions are regularly seen resting high in acacia and sausage trees. Although sightings are never guaranteed, witnessing this unusual behavior is one of the park’s biggest highlights.

2. Lake Manyara

Covering nearly two thirds of the park during high water levels, the alkaline lake attracts thousands of flamingos along with pelicans, storks, and numerous other waterbirds. The lake creates spectacular scenery throughout the year and serves as an important habitat for wildlife.

3. Groundwater Forest

Fed by underground springs flowing from the Great Rift Valley, this lush evergreen forest is home to large troops of baboons, blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, bushbucks, and elephants. The towering mahogany and fig trees create a cool, shaded environment unlike anywhere else on the Northern Circuit.

4. Hippo Pool

One of the best places to observe hippos, this popular viewing area allows visitors to watch these massive animals resting in the water while enjoying views of waterbirds and other wildlife gathering nearby.

5. Hot Springs (Maji Moto)

Located in the southern section of the park, the natural hot springs emerge from underground geothermal activity associated with the Great Rift Valley. The steaming water and mineral deposits create a fascinating natural attraction.

6. Great Rift Valley Escarpment

The dramatic escarpment rises hundreds of meters above the park, creating one of Tanzania’s most spectacular safari backdrops. Scenic viewpoints provide breathtaking panoramas across Lake Manyara and the surrounding wilderness.

 

How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is easily accessible from Arusha, making it one of Tanzania’s most convenient safari destinations.

• Approximately 126 kilometers from Arusha.
• Drive time is about 2 to 2.5 hours on a well maintained road.
• Easily combined with Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park.
• Accessible by scheduled charter flights to nearby airstrips for fly in safaris.

Where to Stay

The area around Lake Manyara offers accommodation for every budget and travel style.

Luxury Lodges

• Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge
• Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
• Escarpment Luxury Lodge

Mid Range Lodges

• Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp
• Marera Valley Lodge
• Country Lodge Karatu

Budget Accommodation

• Fanaka Safari Camp
• Migombani Campsite
• Twiga Campsite

Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara offers rewarding wildlife viewing throughout the year.

The best months include:

• June to October for dry season game viewing, comfortable temperatures, and excellent wildlife sightings.
• November to May for lush green landscapes, outstanding birdwatching, and beautiful photography.
• January and February are especially rewarding for migratory birds and colorful scenery.

Flamingo numbers vary depending on lake water levels and seasonal conditions.

What to Pack

For a comfortable safari, bring:

• Neutral colored safari clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Binoculars
• Camera with extra batteries
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Light jacket for early morning game drives
• Reusable water bottle

Is Lake Manyara National Park Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s hidden safari gems. Its unique combination of tree climbing lions, abundant elephants, exceptional birdlife, lush forests, and dramatic landscapes makes it one of the most rewarding parks on the Northern Circuit.

It is an excellent addition to itineraries that include:

• Tarangire National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Serengeti National Park
• Arusha National Park
• Mount Kilimanjaro adventures

Whether you have one day or several weeks to explore Tanzania, Lake Manyara offers an unforgettable safari experience that perfectly complements the country’s world famous wildlife destinations.

Ready to Explore Lake Manyara National Park?

Experience one of Tanzania’s most beautiful national parks, where elephants roam beneath ancient forests, flamingos brighten the lakeshore, and tree climbing lions create unforgettable safari memories. Let us create a tailor made Tanzania safari that includes Lake Manyara National Park and the very best of the Northern Safari Circuit.