Lake Manyara National Park
A compact jewel of the northern circuit — famous for tree-climbing lions, flamingo-fringed alkaline lake, and diverse habitats from forest to savanna.
Destination
Type
Jun-Oct
Best Time
About Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park packs an extraordinary diversity of habitats into a narrow strip of land between the Rift Valley escarpment and the alkaline lake. Groundwater forest, acacia woodland, grassland, and the lake itself support a remarkable variety of wildlife in a compact area.
The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, which are regularly spotted resting in the branches of mahogany and acacia trees. The alkaline lake attracts vast flocks of flamingos when conditions are right, creating a pink-tinged spectacle against the dramatic backdrop of the Rift Valley wall. Manyara is also one of the few parks in Tanzania to offer night game drives, providing opportunities to spot nocturnal species like bush babies and leopards.
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Why Visit Lake Manyara National Park
The top experiences that make Lake Manyara National Park worth the journey.
Plan Your Visit to Lake Manyara National Park
Everything you need to know before booking your Lake Manyara National Park safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara National Park
June to October for best game viewing. November to May for bird watching and flamingos. The park is a popular half-day or overnight stop between Arusha and Ngorongoro.
What It Costs
Park fees $53/adult/day. Often visited as a half-day stop. Lodges on the escarpment overlooking the lake from $150-600/night.
Getting There
2 hours from Arusha on the road to Ngorongoro. A natural stop on the way to or from the Serengeti.
Destinations Near Lake Manyara National Park
Combine Lake Manyara National Park with these nearby destinations for a multi-stop safari itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Manyara National Park
What is the best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park?
June to October for best game viewing. November to May for bird watching and flamingos. The park is a popular half-day or overnight stop between Arusha and Ngorongoro.
How do I get to Lake Manyara National Park?
2 hours from Arusha on the road to Ngorongoro. A natural stop on the way to or from the Serengeti.
What wildlife can I see in Lake Manyara National Park?
Lake Manyara National Park is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Tree-climbing lions in mahogany forests, Flamingos on the alkaline lake, Diverse habitats in a compact area, Night game drives available. The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Lake Manyara National Park.
How much does a Lake Manyara National Park safari cost?
Park fees $53/adult/day. Often visited as a half-day stop. Lodges on the escarpment overlooking the lake from $150-600/night.
