Overview
Lake Manyara National Park is a small but ecologically diverse park located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
Despite its size, it offers one of the most scenic safari experiences in northern Tanzania. Famous for its tree-climbing lions and pink flamingos, Lake Manyara is a park where wildlife, lush vegetation, and breathtaking landscapes converge in a compact area.
Attractions Found
The park features a combination of groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, and soda lakes. Visitors can encounter elephants, giraffes, hippos, lions, baboons, and over 400 species of birds.
Its unique habitats provide rare wildlife sightings, including the tree-climbing lions and abundant flamingos along the lake.
Things to Do
Game drives are the main activity, offering a chance to observe the park’s diverse wildlife up close. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding, with numerous resident and migratory species.
Guided nature walks allow visitors to explore the park’s unique ecosystems, while photography enthusiasts will enjoy the striking landscapes and wildlife compositions.
How to Get There
Lake Manyara is about 2 hours by road from Arusha and 1 hour from Karatu. The park is often included in Northern Circuit safari itineraries alongside Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro for a complete wildlife experience.
Weather & Climate
The park experiences a wet season from March to May and November, during which the scenery is lush and wildlife is dispersed. The dry season from June to October is ideal for game spotting as animals gather near water sources. Temperatures range between 18°C and 30°C, and early morning safaris provide the best chances for wildlife viewing.
