LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK

Home LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK

DISTANCE

260 km²

FROM

$ 30,00 PP

STYLE

LUXURY SAFARI

Lake Manyara NaNonal Park – Tanzania’s Scenic Jewel

Nestled at the base of the dramaFc Great RiT Valley Escarpment, Lake Manyara NaFonal Park is one of Tanzania’s most picturesque safari desFnaFons. Though relaFvely compact at approximately 330 km² (127 square miles), nearly twothirds of the park is covered by the shimmering alkaline Lake Manyara, creaFng an extraordinary landscape where lush forests, open plains, and abundant birdlife come together.

Known for its famous tree-climbing lions, vibrant birdlife, and breathtaking scenery, Lake Manyara is an excepFonal desFnaFon that perfectly complements a Northern Tanzania safari.

Why Visit Lake Manyara National Park?

Lake Manyara offers a remarkable diversity of wildlife and habitats within a relaFvely small area, making every game drive rich in variety.

Guests may encounter:

The famous tree-climbing lions
Large herds of elephants
African buffalo
Giraffes
Zebras
Wildebeest
Hippos
Baboons
Blue monkeys
Warthogs
Impalas
Bushbucks
Waterbucks
Leopards (occasionally spoBed)

The park is also home to more than 400 bird species, making it one of East Africa’s finest birdwatching desFnaFons.

The Famous Tree-Climbing Lions

Lake Manyara is one of the few places in Africa where lions are frequently seen resFng high in the branches of acacia and fig trees. While the exact reason for this behaviour is sFll debated, it offers guests a rare and memorable wildlife encounter.

A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

The lake aBracts thousands of waterbirds throughout the year.

Depending on water levels and the season, guests may observe:

Pink flamingos
Great white pelicans
Yellow-billed storks
African spoonbills
Grey herons
Fish eagles
Kingfishers
Cormorants • Hornbills

Whether you are an avid birder or simply appreciate nature, the diversity of birdlife is truly remarkable.

Stunning Landscapes

Lake Manyara is celebrated for its diverse and beauFful scenery, including:

The Great RiT Valley Escarpment
Dense groundwater forests
Open grasslands
Acacia woodlands
Hot springs
Marshes
The expansive alkaline lake

The park’s changing landscapes provide excepFonal opportuniFes for photography and wildlife viewing.

Signature Experiences

Guests can enjoy:

Morning and aTernoon game drives
Scenic drives beneath the towering RiT Valley Escarpment
Wildlife photography
Birdwatching excursions
Canoeing on Lake Manyara (when water levels permit)
Guided treetop canopy walk, offering a unique perspecFve of the forest
Luxury picnic lunches surrounded by nature

Best Time to Visit

Lake Manyara is a rewarding desFnaFon throughout the year.

June – October (Dry Season) Ideal for:

Excellent wildlife viewing
Comfortable weather
Easy access to most areas of the park
Clear skies for photography

November – May (Green Season)

Perfect for:

Lush green landscapes
Spectacular birdlife
Flamingo sighFngs (depending on lake condiFons)
Fewer visitors
Outstanding photography opportuniFes

Climate

Lake Manyara enjoys a pleasant climate year-round.

DayFme: 22–30°C (72–86°F)
Early mornings & evenings: 12–18°C (54–64°F)

Guests are advised to bring lightweight clothing for dayFme acFviFes and a light jacket for early morning game drives.

Luxury Safari Highlights

High-end travellers can expect:

BouFque luxury lodges overlooking the RiT Valley
Elegant tented camps immersed in nature
Private game drives with expert guides
Gourmet bush lunches
Exclusive wildlife photography opportuniFes
Personalised safari experiences
Peaceful surroundings ideal for relaxaFon before or aTer visiFng the SerengeF or Ngorongoro

Good to Know

Lake Manyara NaFonal Park was established in 1960 and is one of Tanzania’s most scenic naFonal parks.
The park is renowned for its excepFonal ecological diversity, with forests, wetlands, grasslands, and lakes all found within a relaFvely small area.
It is one of the best places in Tanzania to observe large troops of baboons, oTen seen along the park’s forest roads.
The park is conveniently located about 2 hours from Arusha, making it an excellent first or final stop on a Northern Circuit safari.

A Moraka Africa Safaris Recommendation

Lake Manyara NaFonal Park is where breathtaking scenery meets inFmate wildlife encounters. From ancient forests echoing with birdsong to elephants wandering beneath towering mahogany trees and the legendary tree-climbing lions resFng high above the savannah, every moment reveals a new wonder. Whether enjoyed as a tranquil escape or as part of a grand Northern Tanzania journey, Lake Manyara offers a refined safari experience rich in beauty, elegance, and unforgeBable memories.