Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park, nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment in northern Tanzania, is one of the country’s most scenic gems. Though relatively small in size (about 330 square kilometers), the park is packed with diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Nearly two-thirds of its area is covered by the alkaline Lake Manyara, which is home to thousands of flamingos and other aquatic birds. The park is most famous for its tree-climbing lions, which can be spotted lounging on acacia branches—an unusual behavior that makes it stand out among Tanzania’s safari destinations.
Game Drives
A safari drive through Lake Manyara offers the chance to see elephants, giraffes, wildebeests, buffaloes, zebras, and hippos. The park is also home to large troops of baboons, sometimes numbering up to 100 in a single group, making it one of the best places to observe primate behavior. The highlight for many is spotting the rare tree-climbing lions, a unique spectacle found in very few places on earth.
Bird Watching
With over 400 species recorded, Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The shallow, alkaline waters attract thousands of flamingos that paint the lake pink, along with pelicans, cormorants, storks, and herons. Migratory species also arrive during the wet season, offering year-round birding opportunities.
Walking Safaris & Treetop Walkway
Lake Manyara offers a unique treetop walkway—the first of its kind in Tanzania—where visitors walk across suspension bridges 18 meters above the ground. This thrilling experience provides a bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy, monkeys, and birdlife. Guided walking safaris on the forest floor give visitors an intimate experience with the park’s flora and smaller animals.
Canoeing on the Lake (Seasonal)
When water levels are suitable, canoeing on Lake Manyara provides a peaceful and unique way to see the park. From the water, you can spot hippos wallowing, waterbirds flying low, and enjoy stunning views of the escarpment and forest in the distance.
Hot Springs (Maji Moto)
On the southern edge of the park lies the famous hot springs, where naturally heated waters bubble to the surface. It’s a scenic area with steaming water vents surrounded by greenery and is often a stop for picnics and photography.
Scenic Viewing & Photography 📸
The park is one of the most photogenic in Tanzania, thanks to its dramatic mix of landscapes. From the towering Rift Valley escarpment to lush forests, open plains, and the reflective waters of the lake, every corner offers stunning scenes for photography.
Lake Manyara National Park is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience. The dry season, from June to October, is the best time for game drives, as animals gather around water sources and the sparse vegetation makes it easier to spot wildlife such as elephants, lions, and giraffes. Clear skies also provide excellent conditions for photography. From November to May, the wet season transforms the park into a lush green paradise, making it ideal for birdwatching, with migratory species and thousands of flamingos flocking to the lake. This season also brings dramatic waterfalls along the escarpment and fewer visitors, creating a more peaceful safari experience. In short, the dry season is perfect for wildlife viewing, while the wet season is best for scenery and birdlife—making Lake Manyara a rewarding destination at any time of year.
