Lake Manyara National Park Safari Guide
Highlights In Lake Manyara !!
- Watch thousands of pink flamingos along the lake’s edge.
- Home of Tree-Climbing Lions
- Discover bubbling hot springs in the wild.
- Spot over 400 bird species in one park.
Overview of Lake Manyara National Park.
Lake Manyara National Park is located 126 km southwest of Arusha and covers 648.7 square kilometres of land and water. The park is named after Lake Manyara, a shallow soda lake that has no outflow and takes up nearly two-thirds of the area. It’s famous for its large flocks of flamingos that turn the shoreline pink, especially during the wet season. The park was once used for sports hunting before it was declared a protected area in 1960.
Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, starting from a lush groundwater forest near the entrance to open savannahs and hot springs further south. The park is home to the well-known Hippo Pool at the northern end of the lake and two hot springs one at the centre and another near the southern edge. It offers excellent wildlife viewing including elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and the rare tree-climbing lions.
Lake Manyara is also a paradise for bird lovers, with over 400 recorded bird species. The park lies at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, creating dramatic scenery with towering cliffs and sweeping lake views. It’s a perfect day-trip destination or a peaceful stop on the way to Ngorongoro and Serengeti, offering a mix of nature, wildlife, and birdlife in a compact, beautiful setting.
Top Things to Do in Lake Manyara National Park
Guided Game Drives
Game drives are the most popular activity in Lake Manyara National Park, offering the opportunity to explore its diverse landscape. During your drive, you can spot a wide range of animals such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and impalas. The park is also home to the rare tree-climbing lions, which may be seen resting on acacia branches. Drives usually take place in the early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active. The small size of the park means you can cover a lot of ground in just a few hours. It’s a great choice for both short visits and full-day safaris.
Bird Watching
Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with more than 400 bird species recorded in the park. The shallow soda lake attracts thousands of pink flamingos during the wet season, creating a breathtaking sight. You can also see pelicans, storks, herons, spoonbills, kingfishers, hornbills, and birds of prey such as fish eagles and crowned eagles. The mix of forest, water, and open plains supports a wide variety of birdlife year-round. Whether you’re a casual observer or a serious birder, you’ll be amazed at the diversity. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera!
Tree Top Walkway
The Tree Top Walkway in Lake Manyara National Park is the first of its kind in Tanzania and one of the most exciting ways to explore the park’s lush groundwater forest. Suspended on hanging bridges over 370 meters long and up to 18 meters high, this canopy walk offers a bird’s-eye view of the forest, giving visitors the chance to spot monkeys, butterflies, and colourful birds like turacos and hornbills up close. As you walk from one platform to another, you’ll feel completely immersed in the treetops, surrounded by nature and the sounds of the forest. The walkway is safe, family-friendly, and guided by knowledgeable staff who explain the flora and fauna.
Hot Spring Viewing
Lake Manyara features two natural hot springs, also known as “Maji Moto,” meaning “hot water” in Swahili. These geothermal springs are located within the park,one near the centre and another near the southern end. They bubble up from the ground and flow into the lake, surrounded by scenic grasslands and acacia trees. Though not for bathing, they are interesting natural features and make for great photography stops. The southern spring is especially picturesque, with steam rising in the morning air. It’s a peaceful spot to relax, stretch your legs, and appreciate the volcanic activity that shaped the region.
Best Accommodation Options in Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is situated inside the park on a dramatic escarpment, offering luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the lake and forest below. The lodge’s stone and wood architecture harmonize beautifully with the natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, fine dining, and guided safaris or walking tours. This lodge is an excellent choice for travellers looking for a high-end, immersive safari experience.
Manyara Escarpment Lodge
Manyara Escarpment Lodge is located on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, offering stunning views over Lake Manyara and the surrounding landscapes. The lodge features comfortable rooms with private balconies, perfect for enjoying sunrises and sunsets. Surrounded by lush gardens and forest, it provides a peaceful retreat close to the park. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, restaurant, and easy access to game drives and nearby cultural visits.
Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge
Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge sits on the Rift Valley escarpment with breathtaking views of Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Highlands. It offers spacious suites and luxury villas with modern amenities, including private balconies and indoor/outdoor showers. The lodge is known for its excellent birdwatching opportunities and sustainable practices. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks, cultural tours, and relaxing in beautifully landscaped gardens.
How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park
How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park
By Air:
The nearest airport to Lake Manyara National Park is Arusha Airport (ARK), about 126 km away, and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), roughly 160 km from the park. From either airport, you can take a private transfer, taxi, or arrange a shuttle with your safari operator. The drive from Arusha takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, while from Kilimanjaro Airport it’s about 3.5 to 4 hours.
By Road:
Lake Manyara National Park is accessible by well-maintained roads from Arusha, Moshi, and Karatu. The main road from Arusha heads south-west via the town of Mto wa Mbu, which is the main gateway village to the park. The road is mostly paved, but some parts near the park entrance can be gravel. You can self-drive in a 4×4 vehicle or book a safari with a tour operator who will provide a driver-guide.
By Safari Vehicle:
Most safari tours in northern Tanzania include Lake Manyara as part of their itinerary. Your tour operator will handle all transport logistics, usually using 4×4 Land Cruisers equipped for game drives.
Additional Tips:
- The best time to drive is during daylight hours, as roads can be tricky after dark.
- If you’re traveling during the rainy season, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended to navigate muddy or rough sections.
- Many travellers combine their visit with nearby parks like Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti, so Lake Manyara is often a stop along a larger safari route.