Best Lake Manyara Experience

Safari summary

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most enchanting wildlife sanctuaries, a relatively small but incredibly diverse protected area that showcases the country’s rich ecosystems in a compact setting. Covering about 330 square kilometers, with nearly two-thirds taken up by the shallow alkaline Lake Manyara itself, the park is a true ecological gem located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Its varied landscapes, abundance of wildlife, and striking scenery make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.

The park’s entrance is marked by a thick, lush groundwater forest that immediately sets the tone for the experience ahead. Towering mahogany, fig, and wild mango trees form a dense canopy, sheltering a cool, shaded environment where baboons and blue monkeys roam freely. These troops of baboons are among the largest found in Africa, often seen crossing the road or playing near the forest floor. The forest also provides sanctuary for shy bushbuck and the graceful dik-dik, while hornbills and turacos add a splash of color with their vibrant feathers and calls.

Emerging from the forest, visitors encounter open grasslands dotted with acacia woodlands. This habitat is home to Manyara’s famous tree-climbing lions, a rare and fascinating behavior not commonly observed in most lion populations. These lions often rest on low-hanging branches, perhaps to escape insects, heat, or simply to enjoy a vantage point. Spotting them draped over an acacia tree has become one of the park’s iconic safari moments. The grasslands also support herds of buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, and warthog, creating a lively scene reminiscent of the great savannas, but on a more intimate scale.

The lake itself is a shimmering centerpiece of the park. Fed by underground springs and seasonal rainfall, Lake Manyara is alkaline in nature and provides a rich feeding ground for countless bird species. It is particularly famous for its vast flocks of flamingos that turn the shoreline pink during peak seasons. In addition, pelicans, storks, herons, and cormorants gather in large numbers, making the park a paradise for bird enthusiasts. More than 400 species of birds have been recorded, and it is said that a visitor can see up to 100 species in a single day, an impressive feat for any birdwatcher.

The wetlands and marshy areas around the lake are havens for hippos, which can be observed wallowing in pools during the day, keeping cool under the water. These habitats also attract elephants, one of the highlights of Manyara. The park is renowned for its large elephant population, which can often be seen moving in family groups across the landscape, sometimes emerging dramatically from the thick woodlands into open clearings. Observing these gentle giants at close range is a humbling and unforgettable experience.

The Rift Valley escarpment provides a dramatic backdrop, rising sharply to form steep cliffs that tower over the park. From certain viewpoints, visitors can look down over the expanse of the lake, the lush green plains, and the shimmering horizon. At sunset, the colors of the escarpment and lake transform into a spectacular palette of gold, orange, and purple, creating scenes that feel almost otherworldly.

Lake Manyara National Park also boasts a number of unique features beyond its wildlife. The Maji Moto hot springs, with their bubbling geothermal waters, are evidence of the volcanic forces that shaped the Rift Valley. Although not suitable for bathing, they add a fascinating natural phenomenon to the park’s diversity. There are also areas of striking alkaline flats that dry up during the dry season, leaving behind white, shimmering crusts that contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery.

Activities in the park go beyond traditional game drives. A treetop walkway offers visitors the chance to experience the forest from an elevated perspective, walking along suspension bridges among the canopy. This provides a closer look at birdlife, insects, and the intricate beauty of the forest. Night game drives are also available in certain areas, offering a rare opportunity to see nocturnal creatures such as civets, genets, and bushbabies as they become active under the cover of darkness.

Despite its relatively small size compared to other parks like Serengeti or Tarangire, Lake Manyara’s compactness is one of its greatest advantages. It allows visitors to experience a rich variety of habitats in a single day: dense forests, open plains, swamps, acacia woodlands, and the vast lake. Each zone has its own unique wildlife and character, ensuring that every turn of the safari vehicle brings a new surprise.

Culturally, the area around Lake Manyara is equally rich. The nearby towns and villages are home to diverse communities, including the Maasai, whose traditions, colorful attire, and cattle-centered lifestyle add to the cultural tapestry of the region.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Easy activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Lake Manyara

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Bird watching—with professional guide
• Cultural visits—orphanages, markets, schools
• Photography safari—with professional guide

What’s included?

• Airport transfers
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Accommodation
• Alcoholic beverages
• All drinks
• Hot air balloons
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas