Overview

Tucked between the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the soda-rich waters of Lake Manyara, this charming park is one of Tanzania’s most scenic safari destinations. Though compact in size, Lake Manyara National Park offers an incredible diversity of landscapes — from dense groundwater forests and acacia woodlands to open grasslands and the shimmering lake itself.

The park covers about 330 square kilometers, two-thirds of which is the lake, home to vast flocks of flamingos and other bird species. It’s also famous for its tree-climbing lions, playful troops of baboons, and large herds of elephants that move gracefully between the forest and the plains.

Lake Manyara can be visited year-round, but June to October is ideal for game viewing, while November to May brings lush greenery and spectacular birdlife — a paradise for photographers and nature lovers alike.

What to Expect

A day in Lake Manyara feels like a journey through several worlds in one. The entrance road leads you into a cool, green forest alive with blue monkeys and baboons. As the trees open up, the scenery transforms into golden plains dotted with acacias, where giraffes stride elegantly and wildebeest graze near the lakeshore.

Along the water’s edge, flocks of flamingos create a pink shimmer, while hippos wallow lazily in the shallows. With the Rift Valley wall rising dramatically in the background, the park offers some of Tanzania’s most striking scenery. Visitors often describe Lake Manyara as a “miniature Tanzania,” capturing the country’s wildlife and habitats in one magical, compact setting.

Activities & Add-ons

The main activity in Lake Manyara is the game drive, best done early morning or late afternoon. For a fresh experience, enjoy birdwatching safaris or a canoe trip (seasonal) on the lake when water levels allow. Adventurous travelers can try the Manyara Treetop Walkway, a suspended bridge through the forest canopy offering unique views of the park.

Cultural visits to nearby Mto wa Mbu village are highly recommended — a vibrant community where you can meet locals, taste traditional foods, and explore banana plantations. Lake Manyara also pairs beautifully with Tarangire and Ngorongoro, forming part of a classic northern Tanzania safari circuit.