Lake Manyara National Park
A tree-climbing Lions, a Birdwatcher’s Paradise and Elephant Haven
Best Time to Go
All year around
Famous For Over 2M+
Tree-climbing Lions
Peak Time
June - October
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Location & Size
- Northern Tanzania, along the Great Rift Valley
- Area: ~330 sq km (127 sq miles)
- Coordinates:3.5047°S, 35.8181°E
- Elevation: 960–1,200 meters above sea level
Establishment
- Founded: 1960
- UNESCO Status: Part of the Lake Manyara Biosphere Reserve
- Management: Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA)
- Ecosystem: Part of the Eastern Rift Valley ecosystem
Ecosystem Type
- Groundwater forest, acacia woodlands, open plains, and alkaline lake
- Climate: Tropical savanna climate with moderate humidity
- Rainfall: ~650mm annually, with higher rainfall near the escarpment
- Seasons: Dry (June-October) and Wet (November-May)
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is a compact yet ecologically rich destination nestled between the dramatic cliffs of the Great Rift Valley and the shimmering alkaline waters of Lake Manyara. It’s renowned for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and over 400 bird species.
The name “Manyara” comes from a plant used by the Maasai to build protective hedges around their homes. The lake itself dominates the park’s landscape, attracting thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds.
Lake Manyara Wildlife & Landscape
Despite its small size, Lake Manyara offers a stunning diversity of habitats—from groundwater forests and acacia woodlands to open plains and hot springs. This variety supports a wide range of wildlife, making it a perfect stop on Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.
Tree-Climbing Lions: A rare behavior seen in only a few places in Africa
Elephants: Often seen in the forested areas and near the lake
Primates: Blue monkeys, baboons, and vervet monkeys thrive in the groundwater forest
Birdlife: Over 400 species, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and hornbills
Other Wildlife: Giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and buffaloes
Main Attractions Within the Park
Groundwater Forest
Wildlife: Elephants, baboons, blue monkeys Landscape: Dense forest fed by underground springs Location: Northern entrance zone Best for: Shade, primate viewing, and birdwatching
Acacia Woodlands & Open Plains
Wildlife: Tree-climbing lions, zebras, giraffes Landscape: Savannah and bushland Location: Central park area Best for: Game drives and photography
Lake Manyara
Wildlife: Flamingos, pelicans, hippos Landscape: Alkaline lake with seasonal water levels Location: Eastern boundary of the park Best for: Birdwatching and scenic views
Hippo Pool
Wildlife: Hippos, elephants, buffaloes, water birds Landscape: Marshy delta fed by Simba River Location: Northern end of the lake, near the main gate Best for: Wildlife viewing and photography
Hot Springs (Maji Moto)
Wildlife: Occasional birds and small mammals Landscape: Geothermal springs with sulfur-rich water and boardwalks Location: Southern tip of the park Best for: Scenic walks, photography, and geological interest
Safari Activities
Experience the Tarangire through various exciting adventures.
Game Drives
Explore the park’s varied habitats in just a few hours
Walking Safaris
Guided walks along the escarpment offer scenic views and close encounters with nature
Canoeing (Seasonal)
Paddle across Lake Manyara when water levels permit
Birdwatching Tours
Specialized tours for spotting migratory and resident bird species
Tree Top Walkway
This canopy-level experience offers a unique perspective of the forest and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Cultural Visits
Visit nearby Maasai villages to learn about traditional culture and lifestyle. Experience authentic interactions with local communities.
Things to Know Before You Go to the Lake Manyara National Park
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season: June–October (ideal for wildlife viewing)
- Wet Season: November–May (lush scenery and peak birdlife)
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Lake Manyara Airstrip
- By Road: ~2 hours from Arusha
What to Pack
- Binoculars, camera, insect repellent
- Lightweight clothing, sun protection
- Travel documents and park permits
Lake Manyara Park Safari Ideas
The Serengeti is a great place to visit any time of the year. Take a look at some of our favorite safari tours that go there.
2-Day Lodge Safari to Tarangire and Ngorongoro
3-Day Luxury Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Manyara Tour
4-Day Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Lodge Safari
5-Day Classic Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari
6-Day Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit Adventure
7-Day Wildebeest Great Migration Serengeti Safari
10-Day Tanzania Beach to Zanzibar Safari Adaventure
12-Day Tanzania luxury Safari and Zanzibar vacation
Ready to Visit the Manyara?
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Destinations to Add to Your Manyara Safari
See more of Africa by adding extra stops/destinations to your safari. You’ll enjoy many kinds of wildlife and beautiful nature.