Lake Manyara National Park is a relatively small but highly diverse national park in northern Tanzania, renowned for its unique ecosystems, abundant birdlife, and the famous tree-climbing lions. It’s nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment.

It’s situated in northern Tanzania, between Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, making it a convenient stop on the popular Northern Safari Circuit. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Arusha.

The park has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a dry season (June to October) and a wet season (November to May), which includes short rains (Nov-Dec) and long rains (March-May). Temperatures are generally warm to hot, with cooler evenings.

• Lake Manyara is home to a good variety of wildlife, including:

  • Large elephant populations: Often seen in the groundwater forests or crossing the open plains.

  • Tree-climbing lions: The park’s most famous residents.

  • Large troops of baboons: Often seen along the roadside.

  • Giraffes, buffalo, zebras, wildebeest, impala, and other antelopes.

  • Hippos: Common in the lake’s shallows and hippo pools.

  • Leopards and hyenas: Present but more elusive.

  • Primates: Blue monkeys and vervet monkeys.

• Are there “Big Five” animals in Lake Manyara? You can commonly see elephants, buffalo, and the famous tree-climbing lions. Leopards are present but hard to spot. Rhinos are generally absent from the park. So, it’s typically considered a “Big Four” park, with good chances for lions, elephants, and buffalo.

Yes, it’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 400 recorded bird species. This includes a vast array of waterbirds (flamingos, pelicans, cormorants, storks, herons), as well as forest birds and raptors.

Dry season (June to October): Animals are easier to spot as they congregate around permanent water sources, and vegetation is less dense. This is also when tree-climbing lions might be more commonly seen. Wet season (November to May): Excellent for birdwatching (migratory birds arrive), the landscape is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists.

• Game Drives: The most common activity, exploring the park’s diverse habitats in 4×4 vehicles.

• Canoeing Safaris: Offered on Lake Manyara (when water levels permit), providing a unique water-based perspective of birds and aquatic wildlife.

• Walking Safaris: Guided nature walks are available in designated areas outside the main game drive circuits.

• Cultural Tours: Visits to local villages and communities around the park.

• Birdwatching: A major highlight due to the park’s rich avian diversity.

• Night Game Drives: Some lodges in private concessions adjacent to the park may offer this (not usually permitted inside the national park itself).

• Game Drives: The primary activity, conducted in 4×4 safari vehicles.

• Walking Safaris: Guided nature walks are offered in designated areas, allowing for a closer experience with the bush.

• Night Game Drives: Some lodges or operators offer night game drives, providing a chance to spot nocturnal animals.

• Birdwatching: Excellent opportunities, especially around the hippo pools and diverse habitats.

• Cultural Tours: Visits to local villages and communities adjacent to the park.

• Picnics & Bush Meals: Enjoying meals at designated picnic sites within the park.

Yes, guided walking safaris are offered in specific areas, often along the lake shore or into the groundwater forest, providing a more intimate connection with nature. These are usually accompanied by an armed park ranger.

Lake Manyara offers a diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious lodges perched on the Rift Valley escarpment with stunning lake views to intimate tented camps both inside and outside the park, as well as budget options in nearby Mto wa Mbu town.