Get advice and suggestions to make this your perfect trip. or call us on: +255 755 003116
Get advice and suggestions to make this your perfect trip. or call us on: +255 755 003116
Lake Manyara National Park takes its name from the vast Lake Manyara, which dominates the landscape and covers approximately 230 km² (89 sq mi) of the park’s total area of 325 km² (125 sq mi). The shimmering alkaline lake serves as a vital habitat for a diverse range of wildlife and bird species, adding to the park’s scenic charm and ecological significance.
Nestled at the base of the awe-inspiring Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is a gem brimming with scenic beauty and unique wildlife experiences. Dominated by a shimmering alkaline lake, this park is world-renowned for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and vibrant birdlife.
Its diverse landscapes, including lush groundwater forests, provide a rich habitat for olive baboons, blue monkeys, and an array of other wildlife species. One of the park’s standout attractions is the treetop walkway, a thrilling 370-meter (1,200ft) adventure offering a bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy and its fascinating residents. This elevated experience presents an excellent opportunity to see the park’s vibrant ecosystem from a whole new perspective.
While Lake Manyara National Park is not as famous for its big-game viewing as Ngorongoro, Serengeti, or Tarangire, it offers a more relaxed introduction to an East African safari. Its peaceful landscapes and breathtaking views of the Rift Valley make it a perfect place to unwind before heading to more well-known safari destinations.
If you’re visiting on a day trip en route to Ngorongoro Crater or the Serengeti, don’t miss the chance to experience the park’s natural beauty. However, keep in mind that while the scenery is stunning, game viewing here is more modest compared to the renowned wildlife encounters in the other northern Tanzania parks. The soda-ash lake at the park’s center draws impressive flocks of flamingos, adding another layer of wonder to your visit.
Lake Manyara is ideal for an afternoon game drive or a scenic stop before continuing your journey, but don’t expect it to rival the game-rich regions of Ngorongoro or Serengeti. Still, with its tree-climbing lions and charming landscapes, it’s a rewarding stop for those exploring northern Tanzania.
Lake Manyara National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a rich variety of African species set against a stunning backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment. The park is home to large populations of elephants, wildebeests, giraffes, and buffaloes, all frequently seen grazing along the park’s roadsides. You’ll also encounter zebras, impalas, warthogs, and waterbucks as you explore the park.
Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, although sightings of these elusive cats are rare. The park also houses smaller but equally fascinating species such as the Kirk’s dik-dik and the klipspringer, which can be spotted on the escarpment slopes though a keen eye is needed to spot these tiny, shy creatures.
The park’s game drive circuit is relatively short, typically taking around 3 to 4 hours to cover. Despite this, you’re likely to encounter active wildlife in the early morning when there are fewer vehicles and more animal movement.
If you’re looking for a peaceful safari experience, the morning game drives are highly recommended, as they offer both quieter roads and the best chances for wildlife sightings. For those looking to save, there are several rest houses that offer a more basic, yet affordable, place to stay. While these budget options are no-frills, they provide a simple place to rest after your day of adventure.
Lake Manyara is renowned for its spectacular flamingo populations that flock to its shores, particularly during the wet seasons (November–December and March–May). This is when the lake’s alkaline waters rise, creating a perfect feeding ground for these graceful birds. During these peak months, flocks of flamingos, along with pelicans, storks, and cormorants, can be seen sweeping across the lake, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
At its fullest, the lake can cover up to 60% of the park’s total area, transforming it into a vibrant wetland ecosystem. However, during the dry season, the lake shrinks significantly, revealing a stark contrast to its lush, bird-filled splendor.
One of the park’s most extraordinary features is its population of tree-climbing lions, a rare trait found only in two places worldwide: Lake Manyara and the Ishasha area of Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda.
These fascinating lions have a unique behavior of climbing trees, often seen lounging in the branches of acacia trees, which is a thrilling sight for visitors. Wildlife photographers and tourists flock to Lake Manyara to capture these exceptional creatures in their natural habitat.
Lake Manyara National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with diverse habitats supporting an array of species. The park is home to massive flocks of pelicans and pink flamingos, especially during the wet season, when the lake’s alkaline waters rise. Near the park’s borders and floodplains, you’ll spot egrets, stilts, herons, spoonbills, storks, and other wader species.
The woodland areas are perfect for birding too, thanks to the abundance of water that attracts various species. In the park’s evergreen forests, you’ll find crowned eagles, crested guinea fowl, and the silvery-cheeked hornbill, making it a birdwatcher’s dream.
The park’s stunning landscapes are shaped by the towering Great Rift Valley escarpment that forms the park’s western boundary. The park itself is long and narrow, stretching from the escarpment down to the shores of Lake Manyara.
The landscape varies, with wide grassy floodplains around the lake, and further inland, you’ll find bands of acacia woodlands. The evergreen forests along the escarpment are fed by groundwater springs, creating a lush environment for a range of wildlife.
While Lake Manyara is a stunning wildlife destination, it’s also located in the heart of Maasai Country. Visitors can interact with the Maasai people in traditional bomas (villages) and learn about their culture and lifestyle.
Outside the park, you can enjoy activities such as mountain biking tours, escapement forest walks, and even canoe safaris when water levels are favorable. For those seeking more adventure, there’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area, making a trip to Lake Manyara a well-rounded safari experience.
This combination of wildlife, scenic beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences makes Lake Manyara National Park a truly special destination in Tanzania.
Lake Manyara is home to a significant population of elephants, which are frequently seen in both the acacia woodlands and the evergreen forests.
The abundant water sources and rich vegetation provide an ideal habitat for these forest giants, making them a highlight for visitors on safari.
For a truly unique perspective, the tree-top canopy walk offers an exhilarating way to experience Lake Manyara’s wildlife. Positioned high above the ground, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the park’s forests, home to a variety of primates and bird species.
This elevated walkway offers a thrilling opportunity to observe the forest from an entirely different vantage point.
Lake Manyara National Park offers a wide range of exciting activities, from cultural experiences to adventurous wildlife encounters. Here are some of the most popular things to do during your visit:
Morning or Afternoon Game Drive
A morning game drive is a fantastic way to see wildlife at its most active. Early risers can catch a glimpse of predators, such as lions and cheetahs, during their hunting hours. The afternoon game drive provides a great opportunity to view animals in the park as they come out to graze or drink from the water sources.
The park’s diverse landscapes, including woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands, are home to a wide variety of animals, such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and more.
Night Game Drive
For a unique adventure, embark on a night game drive in Lake Manyara National Park. After the sun sets, the park comes alive with nocturnal creatures like hyenas, leopards, bush babies, and aardvarks.
A night drive allows you to witness the behavior of animals that are rarely seen during daylight hours, providing a thrilling safari experience.
Bird watching
Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise! The park is home to over 400 bird species, including large flocks of flamingos and pelicans, as well as birds of prey like the African Fish Eagle.
Birdwatching is excellent throughout the year, especially during the wet season when migratory birds flock to the lake. Whether you’re a casual observer or an avid birder, the park offers a variety of species to spot and photograph.
Walking Safaris
For a closer look at nature, take part in a walking safari in Lake Manyara National Park. Accompanied by an experienced ranger, you can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems on foot.
This activity offers an intimate experience, allowing you to connect with the environment, learn about the flora and fauna, and track animal footprints. Walking safaris are available in designated areas of the park, providing a safe and educational adventure.
Canopy Walk
Experience the forest from a different perspective with a thrilling 370-meter (1,200 ft) treetop walkway.
Walk among the treetops and spot monkeys, birds, and other wildlife from above while enjoying breathtaking views of the forest.
Mto wa Mbu Cultural Tour
Discover the rich culture of the nearby town of Mto wa Mbu, where over 120 tribes coexist.
Experience local traditions, visit bustling markets, and taste authentic Tanzanian cuisine.
Mountain Biking Tour
Explore the lush landscapes around Lake Manyara on a guided cycling tour.
Ride through local villages and farmland while spotting wildlife and soaking in the beautiful scenery.
Canoeing on Lake Manyara (Seasonal)
Night Game Drive
Go on a thrilling night safari and discover Lake Manyara’s nocturnal wildlife.
Spot lions, leopards, and other predators as they become active after dark.
Visit the Hadzabe Tribe
Engage with the Hadzabe people, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes in Africa.
Learn about their unique lifestyle, hunting techniques, and traditions.
Visit the Maasai Tribe
Meet the iconic Maasai people and experience their vibrant culture.
Learn about their cattle-herding lifestyle, traditional dances, and colorful beadwork.
Cooking with Local Mamas
Join a cooking class with local women and learn how to prepare traditional Tanzanian dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or wildlife encounters, Lake Manyara National Park offers a variety of experiences to make your safari unforgettable.
Lake Manyara National Park enjoys a pleasantly warm climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for most travelers. While the temperatures remain fairly consistent, it rarely gets excessively hot. However, early mornings and evenings can be quite chilly, so it’s advisable to pack warm clothing for your early morning game drives.
The Dry season runs from June to October, bringing sunny, clear skies and very little rain. This is considered the best time to visit as the weather is stable, and wildlife tends to gather around the water sources, making sightings easier.
June to September: Afternoon temperatures hover around 26°C/79°F, with nighttime temperatures dipping to around 14°C/57°F, and the mornings can still be quite cool. It’s essential to bring warm clothing for early game drives.
October: This is when the short rains might begin, although they usually arrive later in the month.
The Wet season is divided into two distinct periods: the short rains (November-December) and the long rains (March-May). Although the rains are more frequent, they don’t tend to last the whole day, so they won’t heavily disrupt your trip.
November and December: The short rains occur, usually lasting for about a month. Showers tend to be short and occur in the afternoon, so it won’t rain all day.
January & February: These months often see a break in the rains, with dry weather between the rainy seasons.
March to May: The long rains occur, and while it can rain daily during this time, the showers tend to be sporadic and don’t usually last all day. The weather is generally cloudy, and temperatures peak at 28°C/82°F during the day, with cooler nights around 19°C/66°F.
Whether you choose to visit during the dry or wet season, Lake Manyara National Park offers stunning wildlife experiences and scenic beauty year-round.




Organizing a safari in Tanzania Destination, can be overwhelming due to the many choices available for transport, accommodation, and activities.
The best time to visit Lake Manyara depends on what you want to experience.
For Wildlife Viewing (Large Animals): The dry season from July to October is ideal. During this period, the park’s wildlife concentrates around the water sources, making it easier to spot elephants, buffaloes, wildebeests, and other big game. This is also when you have the best chances to see the famous tree-climbing lions.
For Bird Watching: If you’re a bird enthusiast, the period from November to June is perfect. During this time, the park hosts an incredible variety of migratory birds, including thousands of flamingos, pelicans, African Fish Eagles, hornbills, Hamerkops, Black Herons, and Little Bee-eaters. The wet season brings a surge of waterbirds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
No matter when you visit, Lake Manyara National Park offers incredible wildlife and scenic views, but these specific seasons enhance your experience depending on your interests.
Lake Manyara offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious lodges within the park to more affordable options just outside the park. Here are some of the best places to stay near Lake Manyara:
For a more affordable yet still exceptional experience, Kirurumu Tented Camp offers comfortable and spacious tents perched on the Rift Valley escarpment. Enjoy stunning views over Lake Manyara while enjoying the comforts of a well-appointed camp.
Located on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara Serena Lodge offers a panoramic view of the park. The lodge is ideal for those seeking a balance of comfort, convenience, and stunning views at an affordable price.
Also situated in Karatu, Gibbs Farm is a charming, rustic property surrounded by lush farmland and beautiful gardens. With its relaxed atmosphere, it’s a perfect place to unwind after a day of game viewing in Lake Manyara or the Ngorongoro Crater.
Whether you’re seeking the luxury of a tree lodge or the charm of a farm stay, Lake Manyara and its surrounding areas offer a wide variety of accommodations to suit every budget and preference.
By Air
The most convenient way to reach Lake Manyara National Park is by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), located 46 km from Arusha. From there, visitors can take a domestic flight to Arusha Airport (ARK) or directly fly to Lake Manyara Airport (LKY).
Charter flights between Serengeti, Arusha, and Lake Manyara are common and can be easily arranged through your tour operator. From Lake Manyara Airport, the park entrance is just 16 km away, a 30-minute drive.
By Road
Lake Manyara is easily reached by road from Arusha, located just 126 km (78 miles) southwest of the town. The drive along the newly tarred road takes 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a popular option for those traveling by car. The park is often included as a stop on safari itineraries heading to the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, both major attractions in the northern circuit.
For visitors without private transport, public buses travel to Mto wa Mbu, a nearby village, where you can rent a car to access the park gate. Lake Manyara is also just 37.4 km from Tarangire National Park, making it an ideal addition to any safari journey.
No matter when you visit, Lake Manyara National Park offers incredible wildlife and scenic views, but these specific seasons enhance your experience depending on your interests.
Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park: 2.5 hours’ drive
Lake Manyara National Park to Tarangire National Park: 1 hour
Lake Manyara National Park to Ngorongoro Conservation Area: 1 hour
Lake Manyara National Park to Serengeti National Park: 3.5 hours
Strategically located in northern Tanzania, Lake Manyara is the perfect starting point for exploring the Northern Safari Circuit, offering easy access to Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti.
EXCELLENT Based on 271 reviews Crystel E2025-07-21Verified 7-day then two-day safari near Lake Natron Our safari went crescendo: Taranguire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and finally the superb Serengeti (4 days). Luck was with us, especially in the immense plains of the Serengeti: leopards, deer, cheetahs, families of lions and elephants, warthogs, zebras, giraffes, sumptuous birds, hyenas, and I pass...a wonder! Magic!Our young Francophone guide, Samuel, shared his many knowledge with us with immense enthusiasm and was absolutely adorable with our two children, ages 7 and 9; Osman, our driver, did everything to please us and took us to see the impressive wildebeest migration. As for our very smiling cook, Clemens, he regaled us with his delicious dishes. At the end of our Tanzanian stay, we spent two days in the incredible landscapes of Lake Natron and sacred Lengai Mountain. What to end the stay in style near the Maasai populations! Malagouen I2025-07-07Verified An extraordinary journey! A big thank you to Sebastian for organizing our 3-day safari (Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire). Our thanks also to our driver/guide Charles: kind, attentive and warm. He lent himself to the game of animal hunting with us.We return with our heads full of unforgettable memories! Thank you, Congema! AmandineMB2025-03-03Verified Unforgettable memories with family We were able to organize with Sébastien (French) the safari we wanted with our two children. He was able to respond to our request and was particularly responsive and good advice, before and until the end of the booking. We took plenty of eyes and the choice of accommodation was just perfect. Thank you very much to our guide Ousman for his dedication and understanding for our level of English. Ahmed Al Maktoum2025-02-24Verified It was a fascinating trip for us Congema Safaris offers unforgettable wildlife adventures across Tanzania’s stunning landscapes. Specialising in tailor-made safaris, we offer expertly guided trips to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and beyond. From the Great Migration, to encounters with the Big Five, to cultural experiences with local tribes, our personalised itineraries ensure an authentic African experience. With a commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction, Congema Safaris offers safe, comfortable and immersive experiences. You can create your dream safari with them, a remarkable journey that blends adventure, luxury and conservation. Quentin P2025-02-10Verified Kilimanjaro - Lemosho route It was an unforgettable experience.We've felt safe.Big up to Paul, Isaac, Shafi, Kasim and all the stuff. Asante sana! Julia J2025-02-05Verified Kilimanjaro Tour - Lemosho route We had the chance to discover Kilimanjaro with the Congema team for 8 days on the road to Lemosho. We had an extraordinary experience! We were warmly welcomed by the team that became our surrogate family during its 8 days. Victor, our guide who knows Kilimanjaro like no one else offered us a personalized discovery of the place with the help of Freddy and Isaac the assistant guides. The team accompanied us step by step through the good times as well as the most difficult ones with kindness and generosity. This is one of the most intense physical, psychic and human experiments I have ever conducted. I'm glad I was able to do it with this dream team. We met some great people. I can only recommend stays with Congema. Thank you again. Julia Beau Alexander2025-02-03Verified I will come back to you again!! Congema Safaris offers unforgettable wildlife adventures in Tanzania, specializing in tailor-made safaris to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and beyond. With expert guides and personalized service, they ensure an authentic African experience, whether it's a luxury safari, budget camping, or cultural tour. Witness the Great Migration, encounter the Big Five, or explore remote wilderness areas. Congema Safaris prioritizes sustainability and responsible tourism, providing exceptional experiences while supporting local communities. Embark on a journey of a lifetime with Congema Safaris and discover Africa’s breathtaking beauty. Audrey D2025-02-03Verified Honeymoon Amazing stay it was beautiful that it was the place.Or We slept and especially the parks we visited. Thanks to Johnny for doing everything possible so that we could see all the animals and especially the Big Five. Thanks to congema we were very well received, everything was nickel thank you for accompanying us from the beginning to the end I strongly advise you if you have a Safari to do GoPlaces650352715492025-01-29Verified A beautiful discovery of Tanzania Beautiful trip to the 4 parks where we could see many animals and beautiful landscapes. Well appreciated camping formula. Thank you to our escorts. First of all, Osman, our super driver, a great tracker always in a good mood despite long hours driving in difficult conditions. His constant concern to find all the animals for our pleasure was greatly appreciated. Asante sana Osman.As for our super cook, Clemence, a real cordon bleu 👍 He made us discover Swahili cuisine and feast us from breakfast to dinner every day. Thank you, Clemence.And of course, Avith, our charming and dedicated French guide always at our service. His knowledge of animals was highly appreciated as well as his kindness.Thanks also to Andrea who took us to the Masai village of Olpopongi and who added to the program the visit of a super interesting local market. A very nice discovery of Tanzania and its kind and devoted inhabitants with Congema. We recommend 100%Martine & Eric Owen K2025-01-12Verified Their team ensures an immersive journey. Congema Safaris offers unforgettable wildlife adventures across Tanzania’s most iconic destinations. Specializing in tailor-made safaris, Congema provides unique experiences in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Their expert guides ensure an immersive journey into Tanzania’s diverse ecosystems, showcasing the Big Five, wildebeest migrations, and breathtaking landscapes. Committed to sustainable tourism, Congema partners with local communities to promote conservation and cultural exchange. Whether it’s a luxury lodge safari or a budget-friendly camping adventure, Congema Safaris guarantees personalized service and memories to last a lifetime. Explore Tanzania with Congema for an adventure like no other!Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
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