Lake Manyara National Park – Tanzania’s Hidden Gem of Wildlife and Scenery
Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment in northern Tanzania lies a natural wonder that captures the essence of Africa’s wild beauty — Lake Manyara National Park. Though smaller in size compared to Serengeti or Ngorongoro, this park offers one of the most breathtakingly diverse safari experiences in Africa.
From its lush forests and open savannahs to its shimmering alkaline lake filled with flamingos, Lake Manyara National Park is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike. Often described as one of Tanzania’s most underrated destinations, it’s a place where every turn reveals new surprises — tree-climbing lions, vast herds of elephants, colorful birds, and spectacular landscapes.
A Brief Overview of Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park was established in 1960 and covers an area of about 330 square kilometers (127 square miles), with the lake itself making up nearly two-thirds of the park’s surface area.
It’s part of Tanzania’s famous Northern Safari Circuit, along with Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti National Parks. Despite its compact size, Lake Manyara is packed with natural wonders and diverse ecosystems that make it one of the most rewarding destinations for a short yet unforgettable safari experience.
The park derives its name from Lake Manyara, a shallow alkaline lake that expands and contracts with the seasons, providing a vital water source for wildlife and a habitat for thousands of migratory birds.
A Landscape Like No Other
Lake Manyara National Park’s beauty lies in its incredible variety of habitats packed into such a small area. As you enter the park, you’re greeted by a lush groundwater forest, with mahogany, fig, and acacia trees forming a dense green canopy.
The forest quickly opens up to grassy floodplains, hot springs, and woodlands, all framed by the dramatic cliffs of the Rift Valley escarpment on one side and the glittering lake on the other. This blend of landscapes creates one of the most picturesque settings in all of Africa — and one that supports an equally diverse range of wildlife.
A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Despite its modest size, Lake Manyara National Park boasts an impressive range of wildlife, making it a must-visit for safari lovers.
1. Tree-Climbing Lions
Perhaps the park’s most famous residents are its tree-climbing lions — a rare phenomenon seen in only a few places in Africa. Seeing a lion lounging on a tree branch against the backdrop of Lake Manyara is a sight you’ll never forget. These agile predators climb trees to escape the heat, insects, or to gain a better view of potential prey.
2. Elephant Herds
Lake Manyara is also renowned for its large elephant population. The elephants here are often calm and relaxed, offering wonderful photographic opportunities as they move gracefully through the forest or across the open plains.
3. Hippos and Buffaloes
The park’s hippo pools are among the best places to observe these giant creatures in their natural environment. Nearby, herds of buffalo graze alongside zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes.
4. Primates Galore
The dense forests are home to large troops of baboons, one of the most numerous animals in the park. Blue monkeys and vervet monkeys swing through the trees, adding life and movement to the lush surroundings.
5. Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Lake Manyara is a sanctuary for bird lovers, with over 400 bird species recorded. The lake itself often hosts thousands of flamingos, along with pelicans, storks, cormorants, and herons. Raptors like eagles and hawks soar above, while smaller species such as hornbills and bee-eaters add bursts of color to the treetops.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual observer, the diversity here is astonishing.
Best Things to Do at Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara offers more than just game drives — it’s a destination that combines adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
1. Game Drives
The most popular way to explore the park is through game drives, which take visitors from the forested entrance to the open plains and along the lakeshore. Morning and afternoon drives offer different experiences — early mornings are great for spotting predators, while evenings provide golden light and peaceful views.
2. Bird Watching
Bring your binoculars! With hundreds of species, Lake Manyara is one of the best birding spots in East Africa. The wet season (November to May) is particularly good, as migratory birds from Europe and Asia join the local species.
3. Canoeing on Lake Manyara
When water levels are high, canoe safaris are available on the lake, offering a unique perspective of wildlife. Paddling quietly across the water allows you to see flamingos, hippos, and other animals up close.
4. Visit the Hot Springs (Maji Moto)
At the southern end of the park, you’ll find Maji Moto, natural hot springs where you can relax and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Nature Walks and Treetop Walkway
For something truly special, try the Manyara Treetop Walkway, a series of suspended bridges high in the forest canopy. It’s the first of its kind in Tanzania and offers a bird’s-eye view of monkeys, birds, and the lush greenery below.
6. Cultural Tours
Outside the park, the nearby Mto wa Mbu village provides opportunities for cultural interaction. Visitors can tour banana plantations, taste local foods, visit markets, and learn about the customs of different tribes living in the area.
When to Visit Lake Manyara National Park
The park is open year-round, but the experience varies with the seasons:
- Dry Season (June – October): The best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around the lake and the vegetation is thinner.
- Wet Season (November – May): The landscape turns lush and green, and the birdlife is at its most vibrant. This is also the best time to see flamingos.
Even during the wet months, the park remains accessible and beautiful, making it one of Tanzania’s most versatile destinations.
Accommodation Options
Lake Manyara offers a range of lodging options, from luxury lodges to budget campsites:
- Luxury Lodges: Lake Manyara Tree Lodge and Manyara Serena Safari Lodge offer five-star comfort and spectacular views.
- Mid-Range Lodges: Kirurumu Manyara Lodge and Escarpment Luxury Lodge provide great comfort and value.
- Budget Options: Public campsites and small tented camps near Mto wa Mbu cater to travelers seeking adventure on a budget.
Most lodges are situated on the Rift Valley escarpment, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding plains.
How to Get There
Lake Manyara National Park is located about 125 kilometers (80 miles) west of Arusha, Tanzania’s main safari gateway.
- By Road: The drive from Arusha takes around 2 hours, passing through small towns and scenic countryside. The road is well-paved and accessible year-round.
- By Air: Charter and scheduled flights from Arusha or Serengeti land at the Lake Manyara Airstrip, just outside the park gate.
Most safari tours include Lake Manyara as part of a Northern Circuit itinerary, along with Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti.
Why Lake Manyara is One of Africa’s Best National Parks
Lake Manyara National Park stands out for its incredible diversity packed into a small space. In just a few hours, you can journey from dense forests filled with monkeys to open plains dotted with giraffes and elephants — all framed by the stunning backdrop of the Great Rift Valley and the shimmering lake.
The park’s relaxed atmosphere and lower visitor numbers make it ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful yet rewarding safari experience. It’s perfect for families, photographers, and anyone looking to witness Tanzania’s natural beauty without the crowds.
Lake Manyara National Park may be smaller than some of Tanzania’s famous parks, but it’s every bit as magical. Its combination of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural richness makes it one of the best destinations in Africa.
Whether you’re watching elephants under the shade of a fig tree, spotting tree-climbing lions, or drifting on the lake among flamingos, Lake Manyara offers an experience that touches the soul.
So next time you plan your Tanzanian safari, make sure to include this stunning park in your itinerary. It’s a place where nature, tranquility, and wonder come together — a true hidden gem in the heart of Africa.
