Location: Northern Circuit, Manyara Region

Area: Approximately 330 km²
Category: National Park

Overview

Lake Manyara National Park, nestled at the edge of the Great Rift Valley, is a compact yet spectacular wildlife sanctuary celebrated for its diverse ecosystems and vibrant wildlife. Covering roughly 330 square kilometers, the park stretches from the alkaline shores of Lake Manyara to dense groundwater forests and expansive savannah plains.

Renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions and vast flocks of flamingos that paint the lake’s surface pink, Lake Manyara offers an extraordinary safari experience in an intimate setting. The park’s variety of habitats supports a rich array of animals, making it a perfect stop on Tanzania’s Northern Circuit.

Highlights

• Famous for tree-climbing lions and spectacular flamingo gatherings

• Diverse habitats including alkaline lake, forest, and open plains

• Rich birdlife with over 400 species recorded

• Thriving populations of elephants, hippos, buffalo, giraffes, and more

• Easily accessible and ideal for short or extended safari stops

Activities

• Game Drives — Explore varied terrain and spot iconic wildlife like elephants, hippos, and lions.

• Bird Watching — Witness flamingos, pelicans, storks, and a wealth of other bird species.

• Walking Safaris — Discover the park’s rich flora and fauna up close on guided foot tours.

• Cultural Visits — Engage with nearby Maasai communities to learn about their traditions and conservation efforts.

• Photography — Capture stunning landscapes and intimate animal behaviors in a compact park.

Wildlife

• Mammals: Tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, giraffes, zebras, baboons

• Birds: Flamingos, fish eagles, pelicans, kingfishers, storks, hornbills, and more

Notable Spots Within the Park

• Lake Manyara Shoreline — Stunning vistas of flamingo flocks and waterbirds

• Groundwater Forest — Lush canopy home to monkeys, baboons, and elusive leopards

• Acacia Woodlands and Savannah — Prime habitat for large mammals and iconic African scenery

FAQs

• Best Time to Visit: Dry season from June to October offers excellent wildlife viewing, while wet season (November to May) brings lush greenery and peak birding.

• How to Get There: Easily reached by road or air from Arusha or Arusha International Airport, with many safaris including Lake Manyara on Northern Circuit routes.

• What Makes Lake Manyara Unique? Its incredible variety of habitats and the rare sight of lions resting in trees.

• Are There Accommodation Options? Yes, from budget lodges to luxury camps both inside and near the park.

Nearby Attractions

• Ngorongoro Crater: World-famous volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife

• Tarangire National Park: Known for large elephant herds and baobab trees

• Arusha National Park: Scenic park with mountain landscapes and crater lakes

Ready to Discover Lake Manyara?

Plan your unforgettable Tanzanian safari today. Let African Giant Adventures guide you through Lake Manyara’s unique wilderness and vibrant wildlife, promising memories to last a lifetime.