Lake Manyara National Park
ABOUT LAKE MANYARA
Small Park. Remarkable Variety.
Set beneath the dramatic escarpment of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara National Park brings together an impressive variety of landscapes within a relatively compact area. Groundwater forest, open grassland, acacia woodland, wetlands and the shallow alkaline lake create habitats for remarkably diverse wildlife.
The park is known for its elephants, troops of baboons, rich birdlife and the tree-climbing lions for which Manyara became famous. Its location also makes it an excellent addition to journeys connecting Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti.
Quick Facts
SIZE
Approx. 330 km²
FAMOUS FOR
Tree-climbing lions
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Year-round
HIGHLIGHTS
Birdlife, forest & Rift Valley scenery
COMBINE WITH
Tarangire & Ngorongoro
WILDLIFE & LANDSCAPE
Forest. Lake. Wildlife.
Lake Manyara changes character remarkably quickly as you travel through it. Dense groundwater forest gives way to open woodland, grassy floodplains and expansive views toward the lake, all framed by the towering Rift Valley escarpment.
Elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebra, hippos and large troops of baboons can be encountered throughout the park. Manyara is also particularly rewarding for birdlife, with waterbirds and other species inhabiting its varied ecosystems.
TREE-CLIMBING LIONS
ANCIENT BAOBABS
GROUNDWATER FOREST
RIFT VALLEY
THE GREAT RIFT VALLEY
Beneath the Escarpment
One of Lake Manyara’s defining features is its spectacular setting beneath the steep escarpment of the Great Rift Valley.
The landscape transitions from lush forest near the park entrance to woodland, floodplains and the shores of Lake Manyara. This concentration of contrasting habitats within a small area gives the park a character unlike Tanzania’s larger savannah destinations.
The escarpment rising above the park provides a dramatic backdrop throughout the journey, making Manyara as much about landscape as wildlife.
EXPLORE LAKE MANYARA
Many landscapes.
One compact wilderness.
Groundwater Forest
A lush beginning.
Near the park entrance, groundwater-fed forest creates a cool, green environment beneath towering trees. Baboons, monkeys and elephants are frequently encountered among the dense vegetation.
Lake Manyara
Life along the water.
The shallow alkaline lake dominates much of the landscape and attracts a variety of waterbirds. Its shoreline and surrounding floodplains also provide feeding areas for numerous wildlife species.
Acacia Woodland
Classic safari country.
Woodland habitats provide opportunities to encounter giraffes, elephants, buffalo and predators while offering a striking contrast to the park’s forest and wetland areas.
Rift Valley Escarpment
A dramatic natural backdrop.
Rising sharply above the park, the escarpment forms one of northern Tanzania’s most distinctive geological landscapes and provides a spectacular setting for a Manyara safari.
Lake Manyara Through the Seasons
From lush green forests to drier wildlife-viewing conditions, Lake Manyara offers a different character throughout the year..
JAN – MAR
Warm & Green
Warm weather and green landscapes make this an attractive period for exploring the park, with rewarding birdlife and wildlife viewing across its varied habitats.
APR – MAY
Long Rains
The main rains transform Manyara into a particularly lush landscape. Birdlife can be excellent and visitor numbers are generally lower, although heavy rainfall may occasionally affect road conditions.
JUN – OCT
Dry Season
Drier weather generally provides comfortable safari conditions. Wildlife can become easier to locate around remaining water and feeding areas as vegetation gradually thins.
NOV – DEC
Short Rains
Short seasonal rains refresh the vegetation and bring renewed colour to the park. Manyara remains rewarding for both wildlife and birdwatching.
Experience Lake Manyara
Game Drives
Explore groundwater forest, woodland, floodplains and lakeshore habitats with a private safari guide.
Birdwatching
Discover Manyara’s diverse birdlife around the lake, wetlands, forest and surrounding woodland.
Wildlife Photography
Capture elephants among the forest, giraffes against the escarpment and wildlife moving across the park’s contrasting landscapes.
Treetop Walkway
Experience the forest from a different perspective on an elevated canopy walkway where available.
Night Game Drives
Explore Manyara after sunset on permitted night drives and search for nocturnal wildlife rarely encountered during daytime game drives.