Well known for the tree climbing lions
AREA
VISITORS
Over 200,000+ per year
LOCATION
Northern Tanzania
Lake Manyara National Park
Overview
Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s smaller but most diverse and scenic national parks. Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment in northern Tanzania, the park covers an area of 330 square kilometers, two-thirds of which is occupied by the alkaline Lake Manyara. Despite its compact size, the park offers a wide range of habitats, from dense groundwater forests to open savannahs and wetlands, making it a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife.
Famed for its tree-climbing lions, stunning landscapes, and rich birdlife, Lake Manyara National Park is often included as a stop on Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, alongside the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. Located about 126 kilometers west of Arusha, the park is easily accessible and ideal for day trips or as part of a longer safari itinerary.
Key Attractions
Lake Manyara
The park’s namesake, Lake Manyara, is a shallow alkaline lake that covers most of the park during the wet season and shrinks considerably during the dry season. The lake is home to thousands of flamingos and over 400 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Pelicans, cormorants, storks, and herons are also common, and the lake’s picturesque setting against the backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment adds to its beauty.
Tree-Climbing Lions
One of the most famous and unique attractions of Lake Manyara National Park is its tree-climbing lions. While it’s uncommon for lions to climb trees, the lions in Lake Manyara have developed this unusual behavior, often lounging in the branches of large acacia trees to escape the heat and insects. This rare phenomenon makes the park a must-visit for safari-goers hoping to catch a glimpse of these majestic animals in an unusual setting.
Groundwater Forest
At the entrance to the park lies a lush groundwater forest, sustained by underground springs. This evergreen forest is filled with towering fig and mahogany trees, creating a cool, shaded environment. The dense canopy is home to troops of baboons, blue monkeys, and bushbucks, as well as a variety of bird species. The forest offers a stark contrast to the open plains and lake shores, showcasing the park’s diverse habitats.
Hot Springs (Maji Moto)
In the southern part of the park, visitors can find the Maji Moto hot springs, a geothermal feature that adds to the park’s unique landscape. The bubbling hot springs provide a beautiful and scenic spot for picnics and photo opportunities, with panoramic views of Lake Manyara and the towering Rift Valley escarpment in the background.
Wildlife in Lake Manyara National Park
Despite its relatively small size, Lake Manyara National Park is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife:
- Elephants: The park is known for its healthy population of elephants, which are often seen in the forested areas and along the lake shores.
- Hippos: Hippos are frequently spotted wallowing in the shallow waters of Lake Manyara, particularly in the Hippo Pool area.
- Giraffes: Graceful giraffes roam the park’s savannahs, often seen browsing on acacia trees.
- Zebras and Wildebeests: These herbivores are commonly seen grazing in the park’s open plains, along with impalas, buffaloes, and warthogs.
- Baboons: Large troops of baboons are a common sight in the forested areas, especially near the park entrance.
- Lions: In addition to the famous tree-climbing lions, more conventional lion sightings are also common in the open savannahs.
- Leopards: Though elusive, leopards inhabit the park’s forested areas and are occasionally spotted by lucky visitors.
- Birdlife: With over 400 species, including flamingos, pelicans, hornbills, and African fish eagles, Lake Manyara is a haven for birdwatchers.
Safari Activities in Lake Manyara National Park
Game Drives
Game drives are the most popular way to explore Lake Manyara National Park. Visitors can experience the park’s diverse habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands and the lake shores, all while searching for its rich wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon drives offer the best chances to spot the famous tree-climbing lions, elephants, and other wildlife.
Canoeing (Seasonal)
During the wet season, canoeing on Lake Manyara is a unique and tranquil way to explore the park. Gliding across the lake allows visitors to get closer to the flamingos, hippos, and other water birds while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Night Game Drives
Lake Manyara National Park is one of the few parks in Tanzania that offers night game drives, providing a rare opportunity to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. Night drives offer a chance to spot creatures like bush babies, porcupines, and possibly even leopards or lions hunting under the cover of darkness.
Treetop Walkway
The Manyara Treetop Walkway is an exciting new addition to the park’s attractions. This elevated walkway takes visitors high into the forest canopy, offering a bird’s-eye view of the park. Visitors can observe monkeys, birds, and butterflies as they walk along the series of suspension bridges, providing a unique perspective on the park’s rich ecosystem.
Birdwatching
For bird enthusiasts, Lake Manyara is a birdwatching paradise. The lake’s alkaline waters attract large flocks of flamingos, while the surrounding woodlands and swamps are home to a variety of other bird species. Whether it’s the majestic African fish eagle or the colorful lilac-breasted roller, the park offers exceptional opportunities for birdwatchers.
Best Time to Visit
Lake Manyara National Park is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking to experience:
- Dry Season (June to October): This is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around the remaining water sources, making them easier to spot. The dry season is also ideal for seeing large herds of elephants and for enjoying clear skies and mild weather.
- Wet Season (November to May): The wet season brings lush greenery and is the best time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive. The flamingo population on the lake is at its peak, and the park is less crowded, providing a more peaceful safari experience. The wet season also coincides with the calving season for many herbivores, offering a chance to see newborn animals.
Accommodation
Lake Manyara National Park offers a range of accommodation options, both within the park and in nearby areas, catering to different budgets and preferences:
- Luxury Lodges: High-end lodges like Lake Manyara Tree Lodge provide luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the park and lake. These lodges often offer additional services such as guided walks, night drives, and cultural experiences.
- Tented Camps: For a more immersive safari experience, tented camps like Manyara Green Camp offer comfortable but eco-friendly accommodations, blending with the natural surroundings.
- Budget Options: There are several budget-friendly lodges and campsites located just outside the park, in the nearby town of Mto wa Mbu, which provide easy access to the park and the surrounding attractions.
Getting There
Lake Manyara National Park is located about a two-hour drive (126 kilometers) from Arusha, making it easily accessible by road. The park is also a convenient stop on the way to other northern Tanzania safari destinations such as Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.
For those flying, Lake Manyara Airport offers charter flights from major Tanzanian cities like Arusha, Zanzibar, and Dar es Salaam, providing a faster way to reach the park.
Why Visit Lake Manyara National Park?
- Tree-Climbing Lions: Lake Manyara is one of the few places in Africa where you can witness lions resting in trees, offering a unique and memorable wildlife experience.
- Birdwatching Haven: With over 400 bird species, including thousands of flamingos, the park is a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts.
- Diverse Ecosystems: The park’s mix of groundwater forests, open plains, and wetlands supports a wide variety of wildlife and offers beautiful, diverse landscapes.
- Canoeing and Treetop Walks: Unique activities like canoeing on Lake Manyara and exploring the treetop walkway offer visitors an alternative way to experience the park’s natural beauty.
- Proximity to Other Attractions: Located along the northern safari circuit, Lake Manyara is an easy addition to a longer safari itinerary that includes Ngorongoro and Serengeti.
Despite its smaller size, Lake Manyara National Park offers an incredible variety of wildlife and experiences, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique and picturesque Tanzanian safari.
Facts about Lake Manyara National Park
- The park is home to over 1,500 lions, making it one of the highest concentrations of lions in Africa.
- The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, and over 350 species of birds.
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