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.
Everything you need to know before booking your Lake Manyara National Park safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
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.
Park fees $53/adult/day. Often visited as a half-day stop. Lodges on the escarpment overlooking the lake from $150-600/night.
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.
2 hours from Arusha on the road to Ngorongoro. A natural stop on the way to or from the Serengeti.
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.
Park fees $53/adult/day. Often visited as a half-day stop. Lodges on the escarpment overlooking the lake from $150-600/night.
2 hours from Arusha on the road to Ngorongoro. A natural stop on the way to or from the Serengeti.