Lake Manyara National Park

Where Wildlife Meets the Rift Valley
A small park with extraordinary diversity, Lake Manyara National Park brings together lush groundwater forests, open woodland, an alkaline lake, dramatic Rift Valley escarpments and abundant wildlife.
Famous for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds and spectacular birdlife, Manyara is an ideal introduction to Tanzania’s Northern Circuit and a natural complement to safaris in Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti.
1. ABOUT LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK
Located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s most diverse safari destinations.
Although compact compared with Serengeti, Manyara offers an impressive variety of habitats within a relatively short distance. From the moment you enter the park, the landscape changes from lush groundwater forest to woodland, open floodplains and the shores of the alkaline Lake Manyara.
The park is particularly attractive for travellers who want to experience wildlife, scenery and birdlife in one destination.
2. WILDLIFE & NATURAL HIGHLIGHTS
Tree-Climbing Lions
Lake Manyara is particularly famous for lions that are sometimes seen resting in the branches of trees. Seeing one is a memorable safari experience, although wildlife sightings are naturally never guaranteed.
Elephants
The park is renowned for its large-tusked elephants, which can often be encountered moving through woodland and forest areas.
Classic African Wildlife
During a game drive, you may encounter giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, baboons, blue monkeys and bushbuck, among other species.
Lake & Flamingos

The alkaline lake attracts flamingos and numerous other waterbirds. Their numbers and distribution can vary seasonally, making the lakeshore especially interesting for photographers and bird lovers.
Groundwater Forest
The lush groundwater forest provides a completely different atmosphere from the open plains of Serengeti. Towering trees create a habitat for primates, birds and other forest species.
Great Rift Valley Escarpment
The dramatic escarpment forms an impressive backdrop to the park and adds a distinctive sense of scale to the landscape.
3. THINGS TO DO IN LAKE MANYARA
Game Drives
Explore the park’s different habitats in a private safari vehicle with an experienced guide, looking for elephants, giraffes, buffalo, lions, hippos and other wildlife.
Canopy Walkway
Experience the forest from above on Manyara’s canopy walkway, with elevated views through the trees and opportunities to observe birds, monkeys and the surrounding ecosystem.
Bird Watching
With more than 400 recorded bird species, Manyara is an excellent destination for bird enthusiasts. Species can be found around the lake, wetlands, forests and woodland.
Photography
The combination of wildlife, forest, flamingos, lake scenery and the Rift Valley escarpment create a wide variety of photographic opportunities.
Cultural Experiences
Lake Manyara can also be combined with cultural experiences around Mto wa Mbu, allowing travellers to experience local communities, food, crafts and everyday life alongside their wildlife adventure.
4. BEST TIME TO VISIT
Lake Manyara can be visited throughout the year, but the experience changes with the seasons.

June – October | Dry Season
Generally a popular period for wildlife viewing as animals become easier to locate around available water sources. The weather is also typically comfortable for safari.
November – February | Green Season
The landscape becomes greener and birdlife can be particularly rewarding. Migratory birds may add to the experience.
March – May | Long Rains
The park becomes lush and quieter, with dramatic scenery and fewer visitors. Rain can, however, affect road conditions and some activities.
For travellers combining Manyara with Ngorongoro and Serengeti, we can help choose the timing and itinerary based on your priorities rather than simply following one “best month.”
5. PLAN YOUR LAKE MANYARA SAFARI
How Long Should You Stay?
Lake Manyara works very well as a half-day or full-day safari, especially when included within a Northern Circuit itinerary.
It can also be combined naturally with:
Arusha → Tarangire → Lake Manyara → Ngorongoro → Serengeti
This makes Manyara a convenient addition for travellers looking for variety without adding unnecessary travel time.
Getting There
Lake Manyara is located along Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit, close to Mto wa Mbu. From Arusha, the journey by road is approximately 2–2.5 hours under normal conditions. The park also has an airstrip for travellers using scheduled or charter flights.
Where to Stay
Travellers can stay in accommodation around Mto wa Mbu, Karatu or within/near the park, depending on the safari route and preferred level of comfort. Manyara is also commonly visited as part of a wider Northern Circuit safari.

6. EXPERIENCE LAKE MANYARA WITH MWEMEZI
At Mwemezi African Safaris, we believe a safari should be more than simply checking animals off a list.
Our goal is to create an Authentic & Memorable journey where wildlife, landscapes, culture and personal service come together.
We can design your Lake Manyara experience as a standalone safari or combine it with Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.
Why Travel With Mwemezi?
Experienced safari guides and drivers
Comfortable safari vehicles
Carefully selected accommodation
Flexible private safari itineraries
Personalized travel planning
Focus on authentic Tanzanian experiences
Professional support before and throughout your journey
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lake Manyara worth visiting?
Yes. Its compact size and combination of forest, lake, wildlife and Rift Valley scenery make it a distinctive Northern Circuit destination.
Can I visit Lake Manyara in one day?
Yes. A full-day game drive can work very well, particularly when the park is included between Arusha, Tarangire and Ngorongoro.
What is Lake Manyara famous for?
The park is particularly known for its tree-climbing lions, elephants, flamingos, diverse birdlife, groundwater forest and dramatic Rift Valley setting.
Can you combine Lake Manyara with the Serengeti?
Absolutely. Manyara fits naturally into a Northern Circuit safari that continues toward Ngorongoro and Serengeti.
DISCOVER THE MANYARA EXPERIENCE
One Park. Many landscapes. Countless moments to remember.
Let Mwemezi African Safaris design your Lake Manyara adventure as part of an unforgettable Tanzanian journey.
Mwemezi African Safaris – Authentic & Memorable.