Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park: A Jewel of the Rift Valley

Lake Manyara National Park lies in a dramatic setting against the steep western wall of the Great Rift Valley. Located en route to Ngorongoro from Arusha or Tarangire, it is a popular destination for both short and extended visits. Its unique ecosystem and breathtaking scenery make it an exceptional National Park, so much so that it was declared part of a World Biosphere Reserve in 1981.

Flora and Fauna

Lake Manyara National Park boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife, thanks to its varied habitats, which include the alkaline lake, acacia woodlands, dense forests, and open grasslands. The park is home to large populations of elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and warthogs. The famous tree-climbing lions of Manyara are a unique attraction, often seen lounging on acacia branches.

Birdwatchers will be mesmerized by the park’s avian diversity, with over 400 recorded species, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and crowned eagles. The lake itself is a feeding ground for thousands of flamingos that create a pink-hued spectacle along its shores.

Tourist Activities

Lake Manyara National Park offers a variety of activities for visitors seeking adventure, relaxation, and an immersive experience with nature:

Game Drives: The main activity within the park, game drives allow visitors to explore a well-maintained network of roads and observe diverse wildlife up close.
Hiking and Walking Safaris: Guided walking safaris can be arranged with park authorities, including a scenic hike up to the Marang’ forest via the Iyambi River in the south. These walks provide a more intimate encounter with nature.
Night Game Viewing: For those looking to experience the nocturnal side of the park, night game drives offer an opportunity to see elusive animals such as leopards, bush babies, and porcupines.
Canopy Tree Walk: One of the longest tree canopy walkways in Africa is found in Manyara. Elevated walkways with intermittent viewing decks allow visitors to observe tree-dwelling wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies, from a unique vantage point.
Canoeing: Depending on the lake’s water levels, canoeing is an exciting way to explore Lake Manyara and observe aquatic wildlife such as hippos and diverse bird species.

Getting there...

By Air: A small airport is located on the edge of the Rift Valley above Manyara, with regular scheduled flights throughout the year.
By Road: A well-maintained tarmac road connects the park to Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti. The drive from Arusha to Manyara takes approximately two hours. The park is also accessible from the southern end via a gravel road from Babati.

Best Time to Visit

Lake Manyara National Park is open all year round. However, the most popular times to visit are during the dry seasons:

June – October: This period offers the best game-viewing opportunities as animals congregate around water sources.
January – February: A great time to visit for birdwatching, as migratory bird species are present in large numbers.

Lake Manyara National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you are exploring its diverse andscapes, spotting the famous tree-climbing lions, or gliding over the lake in a canoe, the park offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness.