Lake Manyara National Park | Arusha

Lake Manyara National Park – A Scenic Wildlife Haven

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most picturesque and ecologically diverse parks. Located on the northern safari circuit, it is well-known for its lush landscapes, abundant birdlife, and the unique ecosystem surrounding Lake Manyara, which the park is named after. Although smaller in size compared to other parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, its distinctive features and proximity to other major parks make it a must-visit for travelers.

Quick Facts

• Location: Northeastern Tanzania, between Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Area: Approximately 330 square kilometers
• Established: 1960
• Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season for better wildlife viewing)
• Nearest Town: Mto wa Mbu, a small town located at the park’s entrance, about 126 kilometers from Arusha.

What to Expect

1. Lake Manyara – The Heart of the Park

• Lake Manyara is a shallow alkaline lake that takes up a large portion of the park. The lake is a central feature of the park and is famous for its abundant birdlife, particularly the flamingos that gather here in large numbers.
• The lake covers up to 66 square kilometers, depending on the season, and is surrounded by lush vegetation, including wetlands and forests, creating a diverse ecosystem.

2. Rich Birdlife

• Lake Manyara is one of the best places in East Africa for birdwatching, with over 400 species recorded in the park.
• The lake is especially famous for its large populations of flamingos that feed in the shallow waters.
• Other notable birds include hornbills, eagles, storks, and herons, making the park a birdwatcher's paradise.
• Tree-climbing lions are a unique feature of the park’s wildlife. While not guaranteed, there are rare sightings of lions that climb trees, which is unusual behavior in African wildlife.

3. Wildlife

• Elephants: The park has a notable population of elephants, which can be seen in the forested areas or around the lake.
• Giraffes and Zebras: Visitors can spot giraffes, wildebeests, and zebras grazing along the grassy plains.
• Buffaloes and Antelopes: You may also encounter buffaloes, impalas, and waterbucks as they graze near the water sources.
• Lions and Leopards: While Lake Manyara is not as famous for big cats as other parks, lions, leopards, and cheetahs can still be seen, especially in the woodland areas.

4. Scenic Landscapes

• The park offers a range of beautiful landscapes, from the greenery of the forest to the barren beauty of the lake.
• Visitors can enjoy game drives through the park, offering panoramic views of the lake, the Great Rift Valley escarpment, and the surrounding woodlands.
• The rift valley escarpment provides stunning views over the park, with steep cliffs rising dramatically from the plains below.

5. The Great Rift Valley and Forests

• The park is situated along the Great Rift Valley and includes a range of diverse habitats, including montane forests, savanna grasslands, and marshes.
• The forest areas around the lake are home to baboons and a variety of monkeys, including the blue monkeys and colobus monkeys.
• The northern part of the park offers the chance to explore highland forests that are rich in vegetation and wildlife.

6. Activities in the Park

• Game Drives: Visitors can enjoy a traditional game drive through the park, where they can explore different habitats and observe wildlife.
• Birdwatching: The park is a birdwatching haven, and guided birding tours are available for enthusiasts looking to spot rare species.
• Walking Safaris: For a more immersive experience, guided walking safaris can be arranged, allowing visitors to explore the park on foot.
• Cultural Visits: The nearby Mto wa Mbu village offers opportunities for cultural experiences, where you can learn about the local Maasai and other Tanzanian communities.

Why Visit Lake Manyara National Park?

• Unique Landscapes: From the towering cliffs of the Rift Valley to the lush forests and flamingo-filled lakes, the park offers incredible scenic beauty.
• Birdwatching: It is one of the best locations in Africa for birdwatching, with diverse species found throughout the park.
• Wildlife Diversity: While not as famous as some of Tanzania's other parks, the park offers great opportunities to see the Big Five and more, including rare wildlife behaviors like tree-climbing lions.
• Proximity to Other Parks: Its location makes it a convenient stop between Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, making it an excellent addition to a northern Tanzania safari itinerary.

How to Get There

• By Car: Lake Manyara National Park is about 126 kilometers from Arusha, easily accessible by road. The drive takes approximately 2-3 hours.
• By Air: Charter flights can land at the Lake Manyara Airstrip, located near the park's entrance.

Tips for Visiting

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals are easier to spot around the water sources.
• Bring Binoculars: For birdwatching and better wildlife spotting, binoculars are a must.
• Dress Appropriately: The park can be humid and hot, especially in the lowland areas, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection.
• Stay Nearby: There are several lodges and campsites near the park, providing excellent options for accommodations after a day of exploring.