Lake Manyara National Park – Tanzania’s Scenic Wildlife Haven

Park Overview

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most beautiful and diverse safari destinations, located in the Arusha and Manyara regions. The park covers 325 km², of which about 230 km² is the shallow alkaline Lake Manyara itself. Managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority, this protected area sits dramatically between the Rift Valley escarpment and the vast lake waters.

The name “Manyara” originates from the Maasai word emanyara, referring to the spiky enclosure around a traditional homestead (boma). Similarly, the 600-meter-high escarpment encircles the lake like a protective wall, creating a natural sanctuary for wildlife and birdlife.

Lake Manyara is Famous For

Lake Manyara National Park is globally recognized for its unique attractions, including:

• Tree-climbing lions – one of the few places in Africa where lions are regularly seen resting in acacia trees.
• Rich birdlife – over 400 species, including flamingos, pelicans, and raptors.
• Diverse vegetation – from groundwater forests and grasslands to acacia woodlands.
• Large elephant herds – famously studied by zoologist Iain Douglas-Hamilton.
• Tree-top canopy walk – Tanzania’s first suspended walkway offering an adventurous forest view.

Activities in Lake Manyara National Park

Day Game Drives

Game drives are the most popular activity, giving visitors a chance to explore the park in 4×4 safari vehicles. Expect sightings of elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, leopards, and primates such as blue monkeys and baboons. Lucky visitors may encounter the famous tree-climbing lions.

Bird Watching

A true birding paradise, Lake Manyara boasts 400+ recorded bird species, including migratory, endemic, and water birds. Pink flamingos, hornbills, pelicans, kingfishers, herons, and African fish eagles are among the highlights.

Night Game Drives

Lake Manyara is among the few Tanzanian parks offering night safaris. With a spotlight and a ranger, visitors can see nocturnal wildlife such as leopards, civets, genets, porcupines, and hippos grazing under the stars.

Canoeing on Lake Manyara

A unique activity here is canoeing on the alkaline waters of Lake Manyara. Paddle along the shoreline to spot hippos, elephants, buffaloes, and flocks of flamingos while enjoying breathtaking views of the Rift Valley escarpment.

Guided Nature Walks

Walking safaris provide an up-close encounter with wildlife and nature. Led by armed guides, visitors can explore forests, grasslands, and lakeshores while spotting giraffes, zebras, and elephants on foot.

Cultural Tours

Just outside the park lies Mto wa Mbu village, a melting pot of cultures. Visitors can explore banana plantations, local markets, traditional homesteads, taste banana beer, enjoy traditional dances, and interact with over 120 ethnic groups living in harmony.

Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara National Park is a year-round destination.

• Dry Season (June – October): Best time for game viewing as wildlife gathers near water sources.
• Wet Season (November – May): The park is at its greenest, waterfalls flow, and birdlife is at its peak, especially migratory species.

Why Visit Lake Manyara National Park?
With its dramatic Rift Valley scenery, diverse wildlife, and unique activities such as canopy walks and night safaris, Lake Manyara National Park offers one of Tanzania’s most rewarding safari experiences. Whether you’re a bird lover, adventure seeker, or cultural enthusiast, this park is a perfect addition to a Northern Circuit safari.