Based on Tripadvisor reviews

Lake Manyara National Park

Destination

Size

Approximately 325 square kilometers, with nearly two-thirds covered by the shallow alkaline Lake Manyara.

Location

Northern Tanzania, about 126 km southwest of Arusha, along the route to Ngorongoro and Serengeti.

Accommodation Options

Luxury Lodges, Mid-range Tented Camps, Budget Campsites

A Scenic Gem Nestled Below the Rift Valley Wall

Nature. Contrast. Serenity.

Lake Manyara National Park is a compact yet diverse paradise nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. The park is famously known for its lush groundwater forest, scenic soda lake, and tree-climbing lions. Its unique blend of ecosystems—ranging from dense woodlands to open grasslands and the shimmering lake—offers an incredibly rich wildlife experience in a relatively small area.

The alkaline lake, which fluctuates in size seasonally, attracts thousands of flamingos and other waterbirds, creating a striking pink-and-blue spectacle. The dramatic backdrop of the Rift Valley wall adds to the park’s visual appeal, making it a photographer’s dream.

Wildlife Encounters in a Lush Setting

Despite its size, Lake Manyara boasts a wide range of wildlife. The park is most famous for its rare tree-climbing lions, often spotted lounging on the branches of acacia trees. Elephants move gracefully through the forest, while large troops of baboons some of the biggest in Africa dominate the woodland floor.

Hippos wallow in pools near the lake shore, and you can also see buffaloes, wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, and warthogs across the grassy floodplains. Leopards, though elusive, are present and add to the park’s predator profile.

A Birdwatcher’s Haven

Lake Manyara is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 400 bird species recorded. The lake attracts thousands of pink flamingos, along with pelicans, storks, herons, and cormorants. In the forest and acacia woodland, vibrant birdlife such as hornbills, turacos, and bee-eaters thrive.

Birdwatching is especially rewarding between November and April, when migratory species from Europe and Asia join the resident populations and many birds are nesting or displaying colorful breeding plumage.

Dramatic Landscapes and Diverse Ecosystems

The park’s scenery is among the most varied in Tanzania. From the evergreen groundwater forest at the entrance, through open plains, acacia woodland, and hot springs, to the expansive lake itself, each zone feels like a different world.

The steep Rift Valley escarpment towers above the park and offers stunning views from above. In the wet season (November to May), the landscape becomes lush and green, while the dry season (June to October) reveals more concentrated wildlife along the lake and riverbeds.

Activities in Lake Manyara National Park

Game Drives: Enjoy scenic drives through the forest, grasslands, and lakeshore for up-close wildlife sightings.
Bird Watching Safaris: Excellent for both beginners and experienced birders.
Canoeing (seasonal): Paddle across the lake (when water levels are sufficient) for a unique perspective.
Treetop Walkway: A suspended bridge system offering a bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy.
Cultural Visits: Nearby Mto wa Mbu village offers rich cultural experiences including local food, banana farms, and artisan workshops.

Accessibility

By Road: Easily reached from Arusha (around 2 hours by car), often included in northern circuit itineraries.
By Air: Charter flights are available to Lake Manyara Airstrip, near the park entrance.

Why Visit Lake Manyara?

Famous for tree-climbing lions
Spectacular birdlife and seasonal flamingo gatherings
Close to Arusha and ideal for short safaris
Dramatic Rift Valley scenery and lush habitats
Treetop canopy walks and cultural tourism nearby
Compact size makes for rewarding half-day or full-day visits

best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park

The best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park is during the dry season, from June to October. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around the lake and open areas, and the roads are more accessible. This period is ideal for game viewing, especially sightings of elephants, tree-climbing lions, and large baboon troops.

However, the green season (November to May) transforms the park into a lush, scenic paradise. It’s the best time for birdwatching, as thousands of flamingos and migratory birds flock to the lake. While rain can make some trails muddy, the landscape is vibrant and full of life.

Where the Wild Comes Alive

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