Tanzania · Northern Circuit

Lake Manyara National Park

A beautifully diverse safari destination where lush groundwater forest, open floodplains, and a vast alkaline lake combine to create one of Tanzania’s most scenic and wildlife-rich national parks.

Park Area
325 km²
Established 1960
Main Feature
Lake Manyara
Seasonal alkaline lake
From Arusha
~126 km
Approx. 2 hours drive

Park Overview

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most compact yet ecologically diverse safari destinations. From dense groundwater forest and acacia woodland to open plains and the shimmering soda lake, it offers dramatic scenery and rich wildlife in a single unforgettable experience.

Local insight: Lake Manyara is famous for its elusive tree-climbing lions, often seen resting high in acacia branches during warm afternoons.

Best Time to Visit

Excellent year-round, with dry months ideal for wildlife viewing and green season perfect for birdlife and lush landscapes.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak / Dry Good / Shoulder Wet / Green

June–October offers the best game viewing, while November–February is ideal for birdwatching and flamingo sightings.

Wildlife

Known for large elephant herds, diverse habitats, and excellent wildlife density within a small area.

Elephant
Lion
Buffalo
Giraffe
Zebra
Hippo
Impala
Wildebeest
Baboon
Blue Monkey

Birdlife

Over 400 bird species make Lake Manyara one of Tanzania’s premier birding destinations.

  • Pink Flamingos seasonally across the lake
  • African Fish Eagle and pelicans
  • Grey Crowned Crane in open wetlands
  • Hornbills and turacos in forest habitats
  • Excellent migratory bird activity

Birdwatching peaks during the green season when migratory species arrive and the lake attracts thousands of waterbirds.

Tree-Climbing Lions

Lake Manyara’s most famous and unusual wildlife attraction.

  • Often spotted resting high in acacia branches
  • Most active in early mornings and late afternoons
  • Rare behavior found in only a few places worldwide
  • A true safari highlight when seen

Patience helps: experienced guides carefully scan the trees for hidden lions above ground.

Key Landscapes

Groundwater Forest
Lush evergreen forest near the entrance filled with monkeys, elephants, and birdlife.
Lake Manyara
A vast alkaline lake attracting flamingos, hippos, and spectacular lakeshore scenery.
Floodplains
Open grasslands ideal for grazing wildlife and predator activity.
Rift Escarpment
Dramatic cliffs rising sharply above the park, creating unforgettable panoramic views.

Activities

  • Game drives across varied habitats
  • Birdwatching on lake shores and forest edges
  • Canoeing seasonal guided lake excursions
  • Treetop walkway through forest canopy
  • Photography with Rift Valley backdrops

Climate

  • Dry: June–October
  • Wet: March–May
  • Warm year-round
  • Humid near forest and lake

Accommodation

  • Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
  • Escarpment Luxury Lodge
  • Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp
  • Karatu lodges nearby

Park Fees

  • Adult: TANAPA standard rates
  • Vehicle fees apply
  • Optional activity fees additional
  • Subject to official updates

Practical Tips

  • Perfect first stop on northern circuit
  • Excellent as a day trip or overnight stay
  • Carry binoculars for birding
  • Combine with Tarangire or Ngorongoro

Why Visit Lake Manyara National Park?

Exceptional Diversity

Experience forest, lake, floodplains, and escarpment landscapes all within one compact park.

Tree-Climbing Lions

A rare chance to search for one of Africa’s most unusual lion behaviors.

Birdwatching Paradise

Hundreds of species and seasonal flamingo gatherings create outstanding birding opportunities.

Perfect Safari Start

Ideal as the opening chapter of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, with easy access and stunning scenery.