Lake Manyara National Park
Discover iconic Lake Manyara National Park
Explore the diverse ecosystems of Lake Manyara National Park, from the captivating Rift Valley soda lake to dense woodlands and steep mountainsides. This wilderness haven is renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions and the protection it provides to vast elephant herds.
Immerse yourself in the park’s breathtaking surroundings, where the shores of the lake are adorned with mesmerizing pink flamingos, attracting over 400 bird species, including waterfowl and migrants. Witness the majestic presence of buffalo herds, cheetahs, Masai giraffes, and impalas roaming the lake shores and forested valley slopes.
Embark on a Lake Manyara safari for an enthralling adventure, exploring a ground-water forest, acacia tortilis woodland, and rejuvenating hot springs known as Maji Moto. Encounter troops of olive baboons, Sykes monkeys, and short-eared galagos. Discover other fascinating park residents, including Cape clawless otters, Egyptian mongooses, hippos, and klipspringers.
Experience the wonders of Lake Manyara National Park, where every moment unveils the beauty of nature’s diverse tapestry.
Attractions in Lake Manyara National Park
Discover an array of captivating tourist attractions within Lake Manyara National Park, nestled in the northern part of Tanzania, just 126 kilometers west of Arusha Town. Encompassing 330 square kilometers, the park boasts a stunning lake spanning 220 square kilometers when water levels rise during the rainy season.
Connected to Tarangire National Park through the kwakuchinja corridor, these parks share a wealth of diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for these incredible animals easily spotted along the roads leading to Lake Manyara and Serengeti National Parks.
Here are some of the top attractions and must-see wonders within Lake Manyara National Park:
Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara, a shallow alkaline lake nestled within the park, undergoes seasonal fluctuations, expanding and contracting within a vast silvery basin of salt deposits. Encompassing an area of 220 square kilometers, it constitutes two-thirds of the park’s total surface area. The lake is a mesmerizing spectacle, hosting a significant population of pink flamingos. Amidst its waters, hippos find refuge in the shallower sections of the river, adding to the rich wildlife diversity of this unique ecosystem.
Wildlife in Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara’s wildlife spectacle includes abundant elephants, wildebeests, numerous giraffes, and sizable herds of buffaloes. The park is renowned for its substantial populations of zebras, impalas, warthogs, and waterbucks. Explore the slopes of the escarpment, where a keen eye may reveal the tiny and elusive Kirk’s dik-dik and klipspringer.
While the game drive circuit is limited, spanning about 3 to 4 hours, it offers a glimpse of animals constantly on the move. The road circuit provides a unique opportunity to witness the dynamic wildlife within the park. On average, a Tanzania safari by road costs approximately $200 per day, with luxury safaris involving flights commanding higher prices. It’s worth noting that morning safaris are preferable, offering fewer vehicles and increased wildlife activity compared to afternoon visits. Revisiting this enchanting landscape promises a rewarding experience.
Tree Climbing Lions in Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara is home to a thriving population of the distinctive tree-climbing lions, a unique characteristic observed in only two populations globally—the other being in the Ishasha Area of Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. This exclusive behavior draws a significant number of tourists and photographers to the park, eager to witness and capture images of these exceptional animals in their natural habitat.