Lake Manyara National Park is a remarkable destination where diverse landscapes meet abundant wildlife. Covering an area of 325 km², with two-thirds being swamp or water, this park offers a unique experience just a 2-hour drive from Arusha. As you travel from Arusha to Manyara, you’ll be captivated by the scenic views, including the sight of the Maasai people moving from village to village, along with traditional Maasai villages dotted with small houses and grazing cattle.

Vegetation and Wildlife: In Lake Manyara, you’ll find a variety of flora, such as the iconic Baobab trees and the distinctive Sausage trees, known for their sausage-like fruit. A visit to the hippo pool is a must, where you can step out of your vehicle, stretch your legs, and observe not just hippos but also numerous water birds that frequent the area.

Unique Features: This park is famously known for its tree-climbing lions. While there are several theories about why these lions climb trees, one suggests that they do so to avoid disturbance from elephants and buffaloes. Another theory is that the soft, wet soil makes their claws tender, prompting them to rest in trees.

Bird Watching Paradise: Lake Manyara National Park is an excellent introduction to Tanzania’s rich birdlife, making it an essential stop on our Tanzania Safari Packages. With over 400 species recorded, even first-time visitors can expect to see up to 100 species in a single day. Highlights include thousands of pink-hued flamingos during their annual migration, along with other large water birds like pelicans, cormorants, and storks.

If you’re looking for more information or need a guide to help you plan your adventure, Jambo Adventures is here to assist!

About Lake Manyara National Park

• Size: 330 sq km (127 sq miles), with up to 200 sq km (77 sq miles) being lake during high water levels.
• Location: Northern Tanzania. The entrance gate is 1.5 hours (126 km / 80 miles) west of Arusha, near the diverse market town of Mto wa Mbu.

Getting There

You can reach Lake Manyara National Park by road, charter, or scheduled flight from Arusha, conveniently en route to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Activities

• Game Drives: Enjoy both day and night game drives to explore the park’s wildlife.
• Canoeing: When water levels are high, canoeing offers a unique perspective on the park.
• Cultural Tours: Experience the local culture with guided tours.
• Picnicking and Bush Meals: Relax with a picnic or enjoy a bush lunch/dinner amidst stunning scenery.
• Adventure Sports: Mountain bike tours, abseiling, and forest walks on the escarpment outside the park provide adrenaline-filled fun.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (July-October): Ideal for spotting large mammals.
• Wet Season (November-June): Perfect for bird watching, enjoying the waterfalls, and canoeing.