Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park: Tanzania’s Scenic Haven of Tree-Climbing Lions & Flamingos

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most enchanting safari destinations, renowned for its diverse landscapes, tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and thousands of flamingos shimmering across the alkaline lake. Although compact in size, the park offers exceptional wildlife viewing, rich birdlife, and dramatic scenery that shifts from lush groundwater forests to open savannahs and towering escarpments. Moreover, its close proximity to Arusha makes it an ideal introduction to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.

Where Is Lake Manyara Located?

Lake Manyara National Park sits in northern Tanzania, at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, between Arusha and the Ngorongoro Crater.

• Region: Arusha & Manyara Regions

• Nearest town: Mto wa Mbu (5–10 minutes from main gate)

• Distance from Arusha: ~125 km (2–2.5 hours)

• Bordering attractions: Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Eyasi

The park’s centerpiece, Lake Manyara, fills one-third of the total area, providing a sanctuary for flamingos, hippos, and numerous aquatic species.

How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park

Travel by Road

Travelling to Lake Manyara is fast and straightforward. The tarmac road from Arusha is smooth and passes scenic farmland, Maasai villages, and rolling hills.

Road Distances

• Arusha → Lake Manyara: 2–3 hours

• Kilimanjaro Airport → Lake Manyara: 3–4 hours

• Ngorongoro → Lake Manyara: 1 hour

• Tarangire → Lake Manyara: 1.5 hours

Both private safari vehicles and scheduled shuttle services operate daily.

Travel by Air

Travellers can fly directly into Lake Manyara Airstrip, located inside the park.

Airlines Flying to Lake Manyara

• Coastal Aviation

• Auric Air

• Regional Air

• Safari Air Link

Connections are available from Arusha, Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Serengeti, Ruaha, and Selous/Nyerere National Park.

Activities in Lake Manyara National Park

1. Game Drives

Game drives offer an exciting way to explore Manyara’s diverse habitats, from lush forests to acacia woodlands and open plains.

Wildlife You May See

Tree-climbing lions, Elephants, Giraffes, Buffalos, Hippos, Zebras, Wildebeests, Leopards (rare), Blue monkeys, Baboons

The dense groundwater forests near the gate are known for massive troops of baboons—sometimes over 200 individuals.

2. Bird Watching

Lake Manyara is a paradise for bird lovers, with more than 400 bird species recorded.

Notable Birds

Flamingos (best seen when lake levels are high), Pelicans, African fish eagle, Kingfishers, Crowned hornbill, Spoonbills, Storks, Weaver birds

Migratory birds arrive between November and April, adding even more colour.

3. Canoeing on Lake Manyara (when water levels allow)

This unique activity lets you glide along the lake’s edge and view wildlife from the water.

Canoeing Highlights

• Flamingos up close

• Hippos from a safe distance

• Panoramic Rift Valley escarpment views

• Pelicans and aquatic birds

4. Walking Safaris

Guided walks offer an intimate experience away from the vehicle.

What to Expect

• Learn about plants, insects, and animal tracks

• Walk through forest trails or lakeshore paths

• Enjoy breathtaking scenic viewpoints

5. Treetop Walkway

One of Manyara’s most exciting attractions is the 370-metre Treetop Walkway, the first of its kind in Tanzania.

Treetop Walkway Highlights

• Suspended bridges high above the forest floor

• Dangling platforms overlooking fig trees and birds

• Perfect for families and photographers

6. Cultural Tours in Mto wa Mbu

The nearby town of Mto wa Mbu is one of Tanzania’s most culturally diverse communities, home to over 120 tribes.

Cultural Activities

• Banana plantation tours

• Local food tasting (famous banana beer)

• Painting studios

• Handicraft markets

• Village bike tours

Where to Stay Near Lake Manyara National Park

Luxury Lodges

andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

• Located inside the park

• Unique treehouse-style suites

• Premium service and exclusivity

Midrange Lodges

Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp

• Offers classic tented rooms

• Stunning views of the Rift Valley

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

• Beautiful location atop the Rift Valley escarpment

• Swimming pool overlooking the lake

Budget Accommodation

Africa Safari Lake Manyara

• Affordable rooms and tents

• Perfect for budget travellers

Fanaka Campsite & Lodge

• Located in Mto wa Mbu

• Great value for money

Camping

Designated public and special campsites are available within and outside the park for self-drive travellers with their own gear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Lake Manyara National Park famous for?

The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, massive baboon troops, and beautiful groundwater forests.

How many days do I need at Lake Manyara?

1–2 days is enough to explore the main habitats and enjoy game drives or the treetop walkway.

Do flamingos always appear at Lake Manyara?

Flamingo numbers depend on water levels and algae conditions. They are often abundant but may shift to other Rift Valley lakes.

Is Lake Manyara suitable for families?

Yes. Manyara is one of Tanzania’s best family-friendly parks due to short distances, gentle terrain, and diverse activities like the treetop walkway.

What other parks can I combine with Lake Manyara?

Popular combinations include:

• Tarangire National Park

• Ngorongoro Crater

• Serengeti National Park

• Arusha National Park

• Lake Eyasi cultural tours

When is the best time to visit Lake Manyara?

The best months for wildlife viewing are during the dry season (June–October). However, birdlife and scenery are magnificent year-round.

Is canoeing always available?

Canoeing is only offered when lake water levels are safe and stable.

Can I stay inside the park itself?

Yes. andBeyond’s Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is the only lodge located inside the par