Lake Manyara National Park
Tanzania
Discover Stunning Landscapes, Thrilling Safaris, and Diverse Wildlife at Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara National Park, located in northern Tanzania at the base of the Great Rift Valley, is famed for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. The park encompasses diverse habitats, including acacia forests, grassy plains, swamps, and the sparkling alkaline Lake Manyara.
Here can enjoy game drives, guided walking safaris, and birdwatching, spotting elephants, giraffes, hippos, flamingos, and the rare tree-climbing lions. Its compact size makes it ideal for half-day or full-day excursions. The park’s scenic beauty, rich biodiversity, and proximity to other northern circuit parks make Lake Manyara a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Highlights
- Flamingo Spectacles on the Lake Shore
- Elephants Roaming Through Acacia Forests
- Guided Walking Safaris Along Scenic Trails
- Tree-Climbing Lions in the Wild
When to go
June – October
Game Drives
December – March
Bird Watching
Scenic Beauty and Diversity
A Sparkling Gem of Forests, Floodplains, and Rift Valley Cliffs
Located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is a breathtaking showcase of natural beauty and ecological variety. The park’s landscapes shift dramatically—from dense groundwater forests alive with baboons and blue monkeys, to open floodplains where elephants and wildebeests graze beneath wide African skies. The shimmering alkaline lake itself, often tinted pink with thousands of flamingos, creates a striking contrast against the lush greenery and towering cliffs. Every turn reveals a new scene of wonder, making Lake Manyara a true mosaic of habitats and colours.
Tree-Climbing Lions
Witness rare lions resting in trees, a unique and unforgettable wildlife spectacle.
Over 400 Bird Species
Explore Lake Manyara’s vibrant birdlife with more than 400 species to spot.
Ecosystem in a Small Area
Experience diverse landscapes and wildlife packed into a compact, stunning park.
Best Time To Visit
The Perfect Season to Explore Lake Manyara
The Best Time to visit Lake Manyara National Park is from June to October, during the dry season, when wildlife viewing is at its peak and roads are easily accessible.
Dry Season
Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around waterholes.
Green Season
Lush landscapes with abundant wildlife, births and migratory birds.
Shoulder Season
Fewer tourists & vibrant scenery, perfect for peaceful safari.
Most Popular Tour Packages
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Discover the unique ecosystems of Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara, teeming with wildlife.
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Lake Manyara
How to get There
Easily access Lake Manyara by road from Arusha or via Kilimanjaro Airport, with breathtaking landscapes en route to the park
Lake Manyara National Park is easily accessible by road and air. From Arusha, it’s about a 2–3 hour drive via well-maintained roads, offering scenic views of the Rift Valley. Travellers can hire a private car, join a guided tour, or take a shuttle from nearby towns, making it convenient for safari trips.
- Drive from Arusha for a scenic 2–3 hour journey through Tanzania’s beautiful countryside.
- Fly via Kilimanjaro Airport for easy international and domestic access to the region.
- Use private safari transfers for comfortable vehicles directly from towns or airports to the park.
For those preferring air travel, small regional flights land at nearby Lake Manyara Airport, just a short drive from the park entrance. This option is ideal for time-conscious travellers or those combining safaris with visits to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti. Roads and flights ensure flexible access to this wildlife-rich park.
- Join organized shuttle services for affordable, reliable, and hassle-free transport to Lake Manyara.
- Take direct flights from Nairobi for quick travel from Kenya to nearby park access points.
- Enjoy scenic road routes with rolling hills, farmland, and acacia-studded landscapes along the way.
Lake Manyara
Activities to Do
Experience thrilling game drives, birdwatching, walking safaris, and cultural village visits for unforgettable wildlife encounters and scenic lake adventures.
Lake Manyara offers exciting wildlife experiences for all visitors. Enjoy guided game drives to spot tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, and over 400 bird species. Walking safaris provide a closer look at smaller wildlife, while birdwatching tours showcase flamingos and colorful migratory birds around the lake’s shores.
- Game drives through the park to see elephants, giraffes, baboons, and tree-climbing lions.
- Birdwatching along the lake shores spotting flamingos, pelicans, and over 400 unique bird species.
- Walking safaris on guided trails for closer encounters with wildlife and scenic landscapes.
Beyond wildlife viewing, Lake Manyara features scenic picnic spots, nature photography opportunities, and cultural encounters with local Maasai communities. Canoeing and boat trips allow for a unique perspective on the lake’s ecosystem, while sunset drives offer unforgettable views of the Rift Valley escarpment.
- Photography excursions capture stunning views of wildlife, forests, and the lake’s reflective waters.
- Cultural visits to nearby villages to experience Maasai traditions, dances, and local craftsmanship.
- Scenic picnic spots within the park offer relaxation and views of natural wildlife surroundings.
Wildlife Highlights
Discover the wild beauty of
Lake Manyara’s remarkable wildlife
Discover Lake Manyara’s remarkable wildlife up close, from tree-climbing lions and elephants to flamingos, creating unforgettable safari experiences.
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Tanzania offers an unforgettable journey for travellers seeking both adventure and cultural experiences. Explore the Serengeti’s iconic wildlife, witness the Great Migration, and hike Mount Kilimanjaro for breathtaking views.
Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting Maasai villages, spice farms, and historic Stone Town in Zanzibar. From pristine beaches to vast savannahs, Tanzania captures the true heart of East Africa, leaving lasting memories for every traveller.
Have questions you want answers to?
frequently Ask Questions
Find answers to common Lake Manyara travel questions, from safaris and accommodations to transportation and local tips for a smooth trip.
The best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park is during the dry season, from June to October. Wildlife is easier to spot, and roads are more accessible. However, the wet season (November to May) offers lush scenery, fewer tourists, and spectacular birdwatching opportunities, particularly flamingos and migratory species, making both seasons worthwhile depending on your priorities.
Lake Manyara is about 126 kilometers from Arusha, accessible by car, safari vehicle, or shuttle. Travellers can also fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and take a private transfer or guided tour. The park is often visited as part of the northern safari circuit, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro, with well-maintained roads providing smooth travel.
Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and hippos. Bird enthusiasts can spot over 400 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants along the lake. The park’s diverse habitats, including woodland, savannah, and the lake itself, support a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, offering rich opportunities for wildlife photography.
Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching throughout the park. Cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages allow travellers to experience local traditions. Photography and guided nature walks are popular for capturing wildlife and scenic landscapes. The park’s compact size makes it ideal for half-day or full-day excursions, providing memorable wildlife encounters for all ages.
Yes, Lake Manyara is generally safe for visitors. Wildlife encounters are carefully managed with experienced guides during game drives. Standard safety precautions, such as staying in vehicles, following park rules, and avoiding isolated areas at night, ensure safety. Lodges and camps prioritize guest security, making it a reliable and enjoyable destination for families, solo travellers, and adventure seekers alike.
Yes, the park has a range of lodges, campsites, and luxury lodges nearby, suitable for different budgets. Options include tented camps, eco-lodges, and resort-style accommodations. Staying near the park allows early morning safaris and evening wildlife viewing. Many lodges also offer guided tours, cultural experiences, and amenities such as restaurants, pools, and panoramic views of Lake Manyara.
Entrance fees vary depending on citizenship and age. International visitors typically pay a higher fee, while Tanzanian residents enjoy lower rates. Children often have discounted rates. Fees contribute to park conservation, wildlife protection, and community support programs. It’s recommended to check current rates with official park authorities or tour operators before visiting, as fees can change periodically.
Yes, Lake Manyara is ideal for day trips, especially from Arusha or nearby safari lodges. A half-day or full-day visit allows wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and scenic photography. Many travellers combine it with Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti tours as part of the northern safari circuit, making it a convenient and rewarding destination without needing extended accommodation inside the park.
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Places that tell a deeper story
Tanzania is home to destinations that offer more than just stunning landscapes—they tell rich, cultural, and historical stories. From the ancient volcanic calderas of Ngorongoro Crater to the historic Zanzibar Stone Town, every location offers a deeper connection to the land’s heritage. Explore these places to experience the essence of Africa, where nature and culture meet like no other.
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Arusha National Park offers stunning landscapes, including Mount Meru. Visitors can enjoy wildlife sightings, forest treks, and canoe safaris on the Momella Lakes, all near Arusha city.
Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and diverse bird species. It also boasts stunning views of the Rift Valley escarpment.
Tarangire National Park is known for its massive baobab trees and large elephant populations. It offers great wildlife viewing, particularly during the dry season, when animals gather around water sources.
Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to incredible wildlife including the Big Five. The crater’s lush floor is one of Tanzania’s top safari destinations.
Serengeti National Park is renowned for the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, and its abundant wildlife. It offers world-class safari experiences, from game drives to hot-air balloon rides.
Kilimanjaro National Park is home to Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers trekking routes and breathtaking landscapes, with stunning views and diverse ecosystems from base to summit.
Zanzibar, an island paradise off the coast of Tanzania, is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, historic Stone Town, and rich spice heritage, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
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