Lake Manyara National Park

A scenic gem known for tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and lush groundwater forests.

Get A Free Quote

About Lake Manyara National Park

Nestled at the foot of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most scenic and diverse wildlife destinations. Covering approximately 330 square kilometers, the park is renowned for its striking variety of landscapes — from dense groundwater forests and acacia woodlands to open grasslands and the shimmering alkaline waters of Lake Manyara itself. This ecological diversity supports an incredible range of wildlife, including the park’s world-famous tree-climbing lions, large herds of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, hippos, and troops of baboons often seen along the forest roads.

Lake Manyara is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 400 bird species, with spectacular flocks of pink flamingos, pelicans, storks, and kingfishers painting the lake’s surface in vibrant colors. The park’s compact size makes it easy to explore in a day, offering an intimate safari experience that combines breathtaking scenery with exceptional wildlife encounters.

bango
Lake-Manyara
A-flock-of-flamingos-Lake-Manyara-Arusha-Tanzania

Main Attractions and Activities

Game Drives

Explore the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and countless bird species.

Birdwatching

Spot flamingos, pelicans, hornbills, storks, and other rare birds, especially near the lake shore.

Canoeing (seasonal)

Paddle across Lake Manyara’s shimmering waters when water levels .

Cultural Tours

Visit nearby Mto wa Mbu village for cultural experiences, local markets, and traditional food.

Picnics and Photography

Take advantage of scenic viewpoints overlooking the lake and Rift Valley escarpment.

Nature Walks

Enjoy guided forest walks and learn about the flora, fauna, and local ecosystem.

FAQ About Lake Manyara Nationa Park

Why is Lake Manyara famous?

Lake Manyara is best known for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and spectacular birdlife, particularly flamingos that color the lake pink.

A full-day safari is perfect to explore the park, but even a half-day game drive can be rewarding due to its compact size.

Yes, several lodges and camps are located within or near the park, offering stunning views of the lake and forest.

Absolutely. Its proximity to Arusha, beautiful scenery, and variety of wildlife make it an excellent introduction to Tanzania’s safaris.

It’s approximately 126 kilometers (about 2 hours) by road from Arusha, making it easily accessible for day trips or short safaris.

Scroll to Top

Plan Your Safari

Let’s Design Your Dream Journey

What type of experience are you looking for? Pick one or multiple experiences.
How many travelers?