LOMAYANI Africa Adventure
Tanzania Safari Destinations

Lake Manyara National Park

Where tree-climbing lions meet beautiful lakeside landscapes

Lake Manyara National Park is a captivating wildlife destination located beneath the dramatic escarpment of the Great Rift Valley.

Although relatively compact compared with some of Tanzania's larger parks, Lake Manyara offers an impressive variety of habitats, including groundwater forests, open grasslands, woodland areas and the alkaline lake that gives the park its name.

Its beautiful scenery, diverse birdlife and famous tree-climbing lions make it an exciting addition to a Northern Tanzania safari.

What makes Lake Manyara National Park special?

Lake Manyara is known for its scenic landscapes, rich birdlife and the possibility of seeing lions resting in trees. The park's groundwater forest provides a striking contrast to its open areas and lakeside environment. Visitors may encounter monkeys in the forest, elephants moving through the woodland and large numbers of birds around suitable feeding areas.

Wildlife you may encounter

  • Elephants
  • Lions
  • Leopards
  • African buffaloes
  • Giraffes
  • Zebras
  • Warthogs
  • Baboons
  • Blue monkeys
  • Hippos
  • Flamingos and other waterbirds when conditions are suitable

Lake Manyara is especially attractive to birdwatchers because of the variety of species found across its different habitats.

Top attractions

Tree-Climbing Lions

Lake Manyara is famous for the possibility of seeing lions resting on tree branches, although sightings are not guaranteed.

Lake Manyara

Admire the lake's changing colors and the birds that gather along its shores.

Groundwater Forest

Explore a lush environment filled with towering trees and fascinating forest wildlife.

Great Rift Valley Escarpment

Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Birdlife

Look for a variety of waterbirds, forest birds and other species throughout the park.

Things to do in Lake Manyara National Park

  • Game drives
  • Birdwatching
  • Wildlife photography
  • Nature observation
  • Canopy walkway experience, subject to availability and park operating arrangements
  • Guided walking activities where authorized and available

Best time to visit

Lake Manyara can be visited throughout the year. The drier months generally offer favorable game-viewing conditions, while the wetter months can provide lush scenery and rewarding birdwatching opportunities. Bird numbers and the presence of flamingos may change with water levels and seasonal conditions.

Experience Lake Manyara National Park with Lomayani Africa Adventure

Discover the remarkable diversity of Lake Manyara on a guided safari designed around your interests. From searching for wildlife in the groundwater forest to enjoying the scenery of the Rift Valley, every drive offers opportunities for discovery. Lake Manyara can be explored on a day trip or combined with Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti.

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