Lake Manyara National Park

Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment in northern Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is one of East Africa’s most picturesque and ecologically diverse protected areas. Though smaller in size compared to neighboring parks like Serengeti and Tarangire, Lake Manyara offers a compact yet incredibly rich wildlife experience, making it a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and safari-goers.

Geography and Ecosystem

Lake Manyara National Park spans approximately 330 square kilometers, with nearly two-thirds of its area covered by the shallow, alkaline Lake Manyara. The park is located about 126 kilometers southwest of Arusha and forms part of the larger Lake Manyara Biosphere Reserve, designated by UNESCO.

Despite its relatively small size, the park boasts a striking range of ecosystems, including:

  • Groundwater forests of fig, mahogany, and acacia trees
  • Swamps and grassy floodplains
  • Savannah woodlands
  • The alkaline lake itself, which expands and contracts seasonally

This diversity supports an impressive array of flora and fauna, making the park a microcosm of the East African safari experience.

Wildlife

Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior observed in only a few parts of Africa. These lions often lounge on tree branches to escape ground heat or biting insects.

Other iconic species 

  • Elephants – Once heavily poached, their numbers are now recovering.
  • Buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and various species of antelopes
  • Hippos – Often seen wallowing in waterholes and streams
  • Leopards and hyenas – Occasionally spotted, especially in the early morning or evening

Birdlife

Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded. The lake often turns pink due to the presence of flamingos, while other notable species include:

Great white pelicans, Yellow-billed storks, African fish eagles, Silvery-cheeked hornbills, Crowned eagles.

Activities and Attractions

1. Game Drives

Guided safari drives are the most popular way to explore the park. The diverse habitats mean you can see dramatically different landscapes within a single day.

2. Canoeing

When water levels permit, canoeing on Lake Manyara offers a tranquil and unique way to observe wildlife, especially aquatic birds and hippos.

3. Treetop Walkway

Lake Manyara’s 2,300-foot-long canopy walkway is one of the first of its kind in Tanzania. Elevated bridges allow visitors to explore the forest from above, offering a unique perspective on the flora and birds.

4. Night Game Drives

Unlike many national parks in Tanzania, Lake Manyara allows night safaris, providing a chance to see nocturnal animals such as civets, porcupines, and bush babies.

5. Cultural Visits

The nearby town of Mto wa Mbu is a melting pot of over 120 tribes and offers cultural tours, local food tasting, traditional crafts, and insight into the lives of Tanzanians living on the park’s edge.

Best Time to Visit

Lake Manyara National Park is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on your interests:

Dry Season June to October Best for wildlife viewing; animals are easier to spot
Wet Season November to May Ideal for birdwatching and lush landscapes; flamingos are more abundant