Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most scenic parks, located on the northern circuit and offering a unique mix of landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. It is nestled between the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the shores of Lake Manyara, a soda lake that often shimmers in various hues depending on the season. The park is well-known for its diverse ecosystems, vibrant birdlife, and the variety of species that thrive in this relatively compact area.

What Makes Lake Manyara Special?

Diverse Ecosystems: Lake Manyara offers a combination of different habitats, including lush forests, grassy plains, salt flats, and the soda lake itself. This variety of environments supports a wide range of wildlife and bird species.

Bird Watching Paradise: Lake Manyara is renowned for its birdlife, especially migratory birds. The park is a UNESCO-designated “World Birding Site,” and it’s home to over 400 species, including large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, storks, and herons.

Tree-Climbing Lions: Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare and unique behavior observed in this park. These lions are often seen lounging in the branches of acacia trees, which is a fascinating sight that distinguishes Lake Manyara from other parks in Tanzania.

Close Proximity to Other Parks: Located between the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, Lake Manyara is a convenient park to visit as part of a larger safari tour. It’s also just a short drive from the bustling town of Arusha.

Water Features: The park is home to Lake Manyara itself, which attracts a variety of wildlife, particularly during the wet season. The lake also creates a stunning backdrop for the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Best Activities to Do in Lake Manyara National Park

Game Drives: Game drives are the primary activity in Lake Manyara. You’ll drive through a range of habitats, from the forests to the lakeside, and may encounter a variety of animals such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, impalas, buffalo, and baboons. The park is also home to large herds of wildebeest, and while lions are often spotted, the tree-climbing lions are one of the park’s highlights.

Bird Watching: With over 400 species of birds, Lake Manyara is an excellent destination for birdwatching. You’ll find flamingos feeding in the lake’s shallows, as well as a wide variety of raptors, hornbills, and waterfowl. The diverse birdlife makes it an exceptional spot for both novice and expert birders.

Guided Walking Safaris: Some areas of the park offer guided walking safaris, allowing you to explore the landscape up close and learn about the park’s flora and fauna. These safaris are led by trained guides and offer a more intimate and educational experience.

Cultural Visits: There are opportunities to visit local communities around Lake Manyara, such as the Maasai villages, to learn about their traditions, lifestyle, and ways of living in harmony with nature. Some tours also visit the Mto wa Mbu village, which is known for its cultural diversity and farming activities.

Tree-Top Walkway: For a unique perspective of the park’s ecosystem, the Lake Manyara Tree-Top Walkway is a thrilling activity. It is a canopy walk that allows you to walk high above the ground through the forest, offering panoramic views of the park and its wildlife from a bird’s eye view.

Photography: Lake Manyara offers ample opportunities for photographers, with its beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique tree-climbing lions. Early morning or late afternoon light provides stunning opportunities to capture wildlife in the golden glow of sunrise or sunset.

What to Expect on a Game Drive:

Tree-Climbing Lions: One of the main highlights of a game drive is the possibility of spotting the rare tree-climbing lions. These lions are often seen perched in the branches of acacia trees, a rare behavior not commonly seen in other parks.

Elephants and Giraffes: The park is known for its large herds of elephants and giraffes, which roam the plains and forests. You may also spot zebra, buffalo, and antelopes such as impalas and gazelles.

Birdlife: Expect to see large flocks of flamingos, especially in the wet season, as well as a variety of other bird species, including waterfowl, raptors, and colourful songbirds. The birdlife around the lake is one of the park’s most iconic features.

Scenic Views: The park offers stunning views, from the lush forests on the escarpment to the tranquil lake. The Great Rift Valley escarpment forms a dramatic backdrop, and the park’s location along the lake creates picturesque scenery for game viewing and photography.

Varying Terrain: Expect to drive through diverse landscapes, including forested areas, grassy plains, wetlands, and the shores of Lake Manyara, offering varied wildlife experiences.

Other Activities in Lake Manyara National Park:

Night Game Drives: Some lodges and camps in the area offer night game drives, giving you the opportunity to see nocturnal wildlife like leopards, bush babies, and hyenas.

Cultural Tours of Mto wa Mbu: Located just outside the park, Mto wa Mbu is a village known for its vibrant culture and farming community. You can take a guided tour through the village, where you will learn about the daily lives of the locals and their connection to the land and nature.

Mountain Biking: Some lodges offer mountain biking experiences around the park’s outskirts, allowing you to explore the area in a more active and adventurous way.

Lodges to Look Out For:

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge: A luxurious lodge located inside the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest and lake. This is one of the best places to stay for those looking for a high-end experience in a secluded and private setting.

Manyara Ranch Conservancy: Located on the edge of the park, this private conservancy offers both tented and lodge-style accommodation, with opportunities for night drives, walking safaris, and cultural visits.

Ngorongoro Farmhouse Lodge: Though it’s not directly inside the park, this lodge is located nearby and offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the surrounding area. It’s a good base for exploring Lake Manyara and nearby Ngorongoro Crater.

Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp: Located just outside the park, this affordable lodge provides a more rustic safari experience with a great chance to view wildlife and enjoy the park’s activities.

Kirurumu Tented Lodge: Located on the edge of the escarpment, this lodge offers tented accommodations and offers excellent views of the park. It’s a great option for those looking for comfort and access to the park without the crowds.

Final Thoughts:

Lake Manyara National Park is often an underrated gem, but it is rich in diverse ecosystems and offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and cultural immersion. It’s an ideal park for those seeking a more intimate safari experience with a variety of landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re witnessing the unique tree-climbing lions, photographing the flamingos, or enjoying a tranquil game drive through lush forests, Lake Manyara offers something special for every traveler. The proximity to other parks on the northern circuit makes it a perfect addition to any Tanzanian safari itinerary.