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Lake Manyara National Park

Discover Tanzania's birdwatching paradise where tree-climbing lions rest in ancient acacias and millions of pink flamingos paint the azure waters. Despite its compact size, Lake Manyara offers one of Africa's most diverse wildlife experiences.

330 Square Kilometers
400+ Bird Species
10+ Ecosystems
1957 Established

Lake Manyara Quick Facts

Named after the shallow soda lake that forms its centerpiece, Lake Manyara National Park packs incredible diversity into a compact area. Despite being one of Tanzania's smallest parks, it offers some of the most varied wildlife experiences in Africa.

Location

Between the Great Rift Valley and Lake Manyara in Arusha and Manyara regions

Size

330 sq km (130 sq miles) with diverse ecosystems

Famous For

Tree-climbing lions and flamingo paradise

Ecosystems

Over 10 distinctive habitats in a compact area

Geography and Location

Lake Manyara National Park showcases remarkable geographical diversity, featuring varied terrain and vegetation that create one of Africa's most compact yet diverse wildlife habitats.

The Soda Lake

Lake Manyara is a shallow alkaline lake fed by rivers flowing over the cliffs. With no outlets, this soda lake covers 89 square miles of the park and serves as the centerpiece attraction. The lake's average depth varies between 2.8 to 3 feet, making it accessible for wildlife year-round.

Groundwater Forest

The park features a lush groundwater forest covered with evergreen mahoganies and fig trees. This forest ecosystem provides habitat for numerous primates and serves as a natural corridor for wildlife movement between different park areas.

Great Rift Valley

Positioned between the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the lake, the park offers stunning landscapes with dramatic elevation changes. This unique positioning creates diverse microclimates and habitats within the compact area.

Diverse Habitats

The park boasts over 10 distinctive ecosystems including open savannahs, acacia woodlands, salt flats, marshlands, and riverine forests. This incredible diversity supports more than 300 species of plants, making it one of Africa's most botanically rich areas.

How to Access Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara National Park is easily accessible from Arusha and serves as an important stop on the Northern Circuit safari route.

By Air

International Entry: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the recommended entry point, just 46 km from Arusha.

Charter Flights: Available from Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) to Arusha Airport (ARK).

Local Flights: Direct flights from Arusha and Serengeti to Lake Manyara airstrip are available for convenient park access.

By Road

From Arusha: 126 km journey taking 1-2 hours on newly constructed tarred roads.

Northern Circuit: Perfect stop as part of your Northern Circuit safari itinerary.

Public Transport: Bus to Mto wa Mbu village, then rent a car to enter the park.

Access Gates: Northern gate (most commonly used) and southern gate available.

Weather and Climate

Lake Manyara experiences a mild and temperate climate with consistent temperatures throughout the year. Evenings and early mornings can be quite cool, making warm clothing essential.

Temperature Patterns

Average temperatures remain consistent year-round, rarely getting uncomfortably hot. Daytime temperatures range from 25-30°C (77-86°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to 14-18°C (57-64°F). Pack warm clothing for early morning and evening game drives.

Rainfall Seasons

Two distinct rainy seasons: long rains (March-May) and short rains (October-December). The long rainy season coincides with the park's low season, creating lush vegetation and abundant water sources that attract large numbers of animals.

Monthly Climate Guide

Month Season Temperature Range Rainfall
JanuaryShort Dry & Hot16-30°C60mm
FebruaryShort Dry & Hot17-30°C80mm
MarchWet & Hot17-30°C114mm
AprilWet & Hot18-27°C161mm
MayDry & Hot16-26°C36mm
JuneDry & Warm15-25°C2mm
JulyDry & Warm14-25°C1mm
AugustDry & Warm15-26°C1mm
SeptemberDry & Warm15-28°C1mm
OctoberDry & Warm16-29°C16mm
NovemberWet & Hot17-29°C71mm
DecemberWet & Hot16-29°C75mm

Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara

Each season offers unique experiences at Lake Manyara. The dry season provides excellent wildlife viewing, while the wet season transforms the park into a birder's paradise with lush landscapes.

Dry Season (June - October)

Peak wildlife viewing season with animals concentrated around water sources and excellent visibility.

Advantages
  • Excellent wildlife sightings
  • Animals concentrate at water sources
  • Thin vegetation for easy spotting
  • Perfect for photography
  • Fewer mosquitoes
  • Clear sunny days
  • Good road accessibility
Considerations
  • Higher visitor numbers
  • Increased accommodation rates
  • Cold nights require warm clothing
  • Dusty conditions
  • Less bird diversity

Wet Season (November - May)

The green season featuring spectacular birdwatching, lush landscapes, and fewer crowds.

Advantages
  • Outstanding birdwatching opportunities
  • Migratory birds present
  • Lush, vibrant landscapes
  • Fewer tourists, more solitude
  • Lower accommodation rates
  • Baby animals born
  • Incredible photographic opportunities
Considerations
  • Wildlife more dispersed
  • Thick vegetation may hinder viewing
  • Afternoon rain showers
  • Some roads may be challenging
  • Higher humidity levels

Birdlife Paradise

No other Tanzania National Park comes close to providing the extraordinary birdwatching experience of Lake Manyara. With over 400 recorded species, visitors can expect to see more than 100 species in just a single day!

Birdlife Highlights

Common Residents
  • African Jacana
  • Hamerkop
  • Pied Kingfisher
  • Sacred Ibis
  • Southern Ground Hornbill
  • Saddle-billed Stork
Endemic Species
  • Pied Avocet
  • Pemba White-eye
  • Uluguru Bushshrike
Migratory Visitors
  • Greater & Lesser Flamingos
  • Black-tailed Godwit
  • Common Nightingale
  • Sanderling
  • Various Cuckoos
Flamingo Spectacle

The park's most famous attraction! Both greater and lesser flamingos create breathtaking pink carpets across the azure waters. At times, thousands of flamingos paint polka-dot patterns on the lake surface. Witnessing a plumage take flight is an unforgettable experience!

Wildlife of Lake Manyara

Despite its compact size, Lake Manyara hosts some of Africa's largest concentrations of mammals. The park is home to four of the Big Five, with elephants being synonymous with the park's reputation.

Tree-climbing Lions

Lake Manyara's famous tree-climbing lions are one of the park's most unique attractions. These magnificent cats climb acacia trees to escape insects, survey their territory for prey, and avoid elephants and buffalo. Spotting lions resting on tree branches is a common and thrilling sight.

Impressive Elephants

A large elephant population inhabits the park, easily spotted throughout the area and especially near water bodies during dry seasons. These gentle giants with impressive tusks are abundant and provide excellent viewing opportunities for visitors.

World's Largest Baboon Population

The park hosts the largest population of baboons on Earth, with troops consisting of over 100 individuals. From the entrance gate, hundreds of baboons along the roadside welcome visitors, creating an immediate wildlife spectacle.

Hippos & Other Mammals

The park supports diverse wildlife including hippos wallowing in the lake, Cape buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, waterbucks, bushbucks, impalas, warthogs, and various antelope species. Blue monkeys and bush babies add to the primate diversity.

Elusive Predators

Besides the famous tree-climbing lions, the park hosts leopards, hyenas, and occasionally cheetahs and African wild dogs. These elusive predators provide exciting game viewing opportunities, especially during early morning and late afternoon drives.

Major Attractions

From the moment you enter the gate, Lake Manyara offers continuous amazement with its diverse attractions, each providing unique wildlife and scenic experiences.

Lake Manyara - The Azure Centerpiece

The eponymous shallow alkaline lake covers 89 square miles and serves as the park's major attraction. Formed in a Great Rift Valley depression, this scenic gem was described by Ernest Hemingway as "the loveliest I had seen in Africa." The lake supports incredible birdlife thriving on its brackish waters.

Maji Moto Hot Springs

Located on the western shores, these soothing hot springs bubble at over 60°C, creating a large swampy area. The hot springs seep from the nearby valley wall and offer a famous viewpoint where visitors can relax and enjoy the timeless beauty of this natural wonder.

Groundwater Forest

The lush groundwater forest features towering mahogany and fig trees, creating perfect habitat for primates. This ecosystem serves as a natural corridor and provides excellent opportunities to spot blue monkeys, cape bushbucks, and various bird species.

Great Rift Valley Escarpment

The dramatic escarpment provides stunning panoramic views and creates the diverse topography that makes the park so special. The elevation changes create various microclimates and contribute to the park's remarkable ecosystem diversity.

Safari Activities

Lake Manyara offers unique activities rarely found elsewhere in Tanzania, providing diverse ways to experience its remarkable wildlife and landscapes.

Game Drives

Game Drives - Explore Diverse Ecosystems

Daytime game drives are the best way to explore the park's diverse wildlife. From the mahogany forest perfect for spotting giraffes and monkeys, to the savannah plains where you'll see zebras, elephants, and the famous tree-climbing lions resting on acacia branches.

Night Game Drives

Night Game Drives - Discover Nocturnal Magic

Lake Manyara is among the few Tanzania parks offering night game drives. Experience the thrill of spotting nocturnal animals like lions, leopards, porcupines, civet cats, and jackals in specially equipped open safari vehicles. A completely different and exciting safari experience!

Canoeing

Canoeing - Paddle Along the Lakeshores

One of the few places in Tanzania where canoeing is possible! Paddle along Lake Manyara's shores for unique opportunities to spot aquatic wildlife, water birds, hippos, and animals gathering at the shore to drink. An intimate and peaceful wildlife experience.

Walking Safaris

Walking Safaris - Authentic Bush Experience

Discover the park's varied wildlife on foot with armed guides ensuring your safety. Walking safaris provide intimate nature encounters, allowing you to learn about smaller wildlife, tracking skills, and bush craft while exploring the park's scenic beauty up close.

Treetop Canopy Walk

Treetop Canopy Walk - Above the Forest

Experience the park from a unique perspective on the treetop walkway. This incredible activity offers ultimate views, amazing birdwatching experiences, and encounters with playful monkeys jumping and entertaining throughout the route. A truly elevated safari experience!

Cultural Tours

Cultural Tours - Meet Local Communities

Visit nearby Maasai communities and Mto wa Mbu village to experience local culture, traditional crafts, and authentic way of life. Learn about traditional farming, taste local foods, and purchase authentic arts and crafts while supporting local communities.

Lake Manyara Accommodations

From budget-friendly camps to ultra-luxury tree lodges, Lake Manyara offers accommodations for every preference and budget. Wake up to the sounds of the African bush and spectacular lake views.

Budget Options

Authentic camping experiences with basic amenities and excellent value for money.

  • Lake Manyara Tortillis Camp - Heart of the park with lake views
  • Bougainvillea Safari Lodge - Comfortable accommodation in Karatu
  • Panorama Safari Camp - Great location with park access
  • Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp - Basic but comfortable
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Mid-Range Options

Comfortable lodges with excellent service and strategic locations for park access.

  • Serena Safari Lodge - Edge of Great Rift Valley escarpment
  • Manyara's Secret - Most romantic lodge in Tanzania
  • Lake Manyara Safari Lodge - Spectacular views
  • Kirurumu Manyara Lodge - Excellent location and service
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Luxury Options

Ultra-luxury lodges with world-class service, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences.

  • &Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge - Exclusive tree houses
  • Wellworth Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge - Rift Valley rim views
  • Mawe Mawe Lodge - Luxury at the edge of Rift Valley
  • Escarpment Luxury Lodge - Overlooking beautiful lake
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Park Entrance Fees

Park entrance fees help support conservation efforts and maintain the park's infrastructure for wildlife protection and visitor experiences.

Category High Season (Adults 16+ years) Low Season (Adults 16+ years) Children (5-15 years)
Non-Residents $59 USD $53.10 USD $17.70 USD
Residents $29.50 USD $26.55 USD $8.85 USD

Note: Fees are subject to change. Children under 5 years enter free. Vehicle fees and other park services have additional charges.

Lake Manyara Highlights

Despite its compact size, Lake Manyara packs incredible diversity and unique experiences that make it a must-visit destination on any Tanzania safari.

Tree-climbing Lions: Unique behavior rarely seen elsewhere - lions resting on acacia tree branches
Birdwatching Paradise: Over 400 bird species including millions of flamingos painting the lake pink
World's Largest Baboon Population: Troops of over 100 individuals welcome visitors at the gate
Ecosystem Diversity: Over 10 distinct habitats in just 330 square kilometers
Unique Activities: Canoeing, night drives, canopy walks, and walking safaris
Hot Springs: Maji Moto hot springs bubbling at over 60°C create a soothing natural spa
Big Five (minus rhinos): Lions, elephants, leopards, and buffalo all present
Alkaline Lake: Shallow soda lake described by Hemingway as "the loveliest in Africa"

Ready to Experience Lake Manyara?

Discover the magic of tree-climbing lions, pink flamingo spectacles, and one of Africa's most diverse ecosystems. Let our expert guides show you the wonders of Tanzania's birdwatching paradise.

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Explore More of Tanzania

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Ngorongoro Crater

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Tarangire National Park

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about visiting Lake Manyara National Park and planning your safari adventure.

Lake Manyara is unique for its incredible diversity in a compact area. It's famous for tree-climbing lions, the world's largest baboon population, over 400 bird species including millions of flamingos, and offering activities like canoeing and night drives that are rare in other Tanzanian parks.

A full day (6-8 hours) is typically sufficient to explore Lake Manyara's highlights. However, for birdwatching enthusiasts or those wanting to experience unique activities like canoeing or night drives, 2 days allows for a more comprehensive experience.

Flamingos are present year-round, but the best viewing is during the wet season (November-May) when water levels are higher and algae more abundant. The peak spectacle is often from December to April when millions of flamingos create stunning pink carpets across the lake.

While Lake Manyara is famous for tree-climbing lions, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. However, lions are commonly seen in the park, and the tree-climbing behavior is more frequent here than anywhere else. Your experienced guide will know the best areas and times to look for this unique behavior.

Canoeing availability depends on water levels in Lake Manyara. It's best during and after the rainy seasons (November-May) when water levels are sufficiently high. During dry periods, the lake may be too shallow for canoeing. Check with your tour operator about current conditions.

Yes! Lake Manyara is excellent for families. The compact size means shorter game drives, there's abundant wildlife for children to see, and unique activities like the canopy walk are exciting for kids. The large baboon population at the entrance always delights children, and the park is considered very safe.
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