Lake Manyara National Park – A Small Park with a Big Personality
Tucked beneath the dramatic cliffs of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most scenic and charming parks. Although smaller in size compared to Serengeti or Tarangire, it offers a surprisingly rich variety of landscapes and wildlife—making it a perfect introduction to safari for first-time travelers or a peaceful stopover on the way to Ngorongoro and Serengeti.
At Royal Climb and Safaris, we often include Lake Manyara in our Northern Circuit itineraries because it’s accessible, picturesque, and full of surprises.
Location and Accessibility
Lake Manyara National Park is just a 2-hour drive (about 126 km) from Arusha, and close to towns like Mto wa Mbu and Karatu. It covers approximately 330 square kilometers, but nearly two-thirds of that is the lake itself, which gives the park its name and unique charm.
It’s ideal for a half-day or full-day game drive—especially if you want to break up your journey to the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.
A Park of Contrasts
What makes Manyara special is its diverse range of habitats in such a small space. You’ll travel through:
- Lush groundwater forests with giant fig and mahogany trees
- Open savannahs and grassy floodplains
- The shimmering alkaline lake, which stretches along the eastern border
- The dramatic Rift Valley escarpment, rising steeply to the west
- Hot springs bubbling in the southern reaches of the park
Every turn offers something new—perfect for photography and those who love a varied safari.
Wildlife in Lake Manyara
The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions—a rare behavior that draws wildlife lovers from around the world. Though sightings aren’t guaranteed, when it happens, it’s unforgettable.
You’ll also find:
- Large elephant herds (especially in the forest)
- Hippos, often seen lounging in the Hippo Pool
- Giraffes, buffalo, zebra, and wildebeest
- Agile blue monkeys, playful baboons, and shy bushbucks
- And with luck, a glimpse of the leopard, resting in the trees
Despite its smaller size, Manyara offers a surprisingly rich game-viewing experience, especially during the green season when animals roam more freely.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Lake Manyara is a bird lover’s dream. The alkaline lake attracts thousands of lesser flamingos, pelicans, storks, herons, and egrets.
Over 400 bird species have been recorded here, making it one of the best birding spots in Tanzania. Even casual visitors will enjoy spotting:
- African fish eagles
- Grey crowned cranes
- Silvery-cheeked hornbills
- Kingfishers and bee-eaters
Activities in Lake Manyara National Park
- Game Drives – Morning or afternoon drives through varied terrain.
- Forest Walks & Boardwalk Trails – Get out of the vehicle and walk along raised platforms over the marshes near the Hippo Pool.
- Canoeing (seasonal) – Paddle quietly along the lake when water levels permit.
- Cultural Bicycle Tours – Start outside the park in Mto wa Mbu and cycle through local farms, banana plantations, and rice paddies.
- ️ Picnicking – Scenic picnic sites with views of the lake and escarpment.
- Hot Springs Visit – See natural geothermal activity bubbling at the southern end of the park.
Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara
Year-round – Lake Manyara is a great park to visit any time of year.
- June to October (Dry Season): Easier wildlife viewing and more animals near the water.
- November to May (Green Season): Lush landscapes, excellent birding, and fewer crowds.
Flamingos are more abundant when water levels are right—usually during and just after the rainy seasons.
️ Where to Stay
Many visitors stay just outside the park in Mto wa Mbu or Karatu, where there are lodges and tented camps for every budget. Options include:
- Manyara Serena Safari Lodge (stunning Rift Valley views)
- Escarpment Luxury Lodge
- Migunga Tented Camp
- Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp
- Budget guesthouses and local lodges
We at Royal Climb and Safaris work with trusted accommodation providers to suit your style—be it luxury, comfort, or simple and local.
Why Visit Lake Manyara with Royal Climb and Safaris?
- Personalized game drives with experienced local guides
- Flexible tour options: day trip or part of a longer safari
- Cultural add-ons in nearby Mto wa Mbu
- Private vehicles, delicious lunches, and great storytelling
- We make sure your Manyara visit is relaxing, scenic, and full of surprises
