Lake Manyara National Park

Overview

Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara National Park is a compact yet diverse destination in northern Tanzania. Covering about 330 square kilometers, it is renowned for its scenic beauty, from lush groundwater forests to expansive alkaline shores. The park’s centerpiece is the shallow Lake Manyara, which covers two-thirds of the park and serves as a vital habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.  

Wildlife Safari

Lake Manyara offers a distinctive safari experience, famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior that sets the park apart. The game drives through the park are full of surprises, as visitors can spot elephants wandering through the forest, giraffes striding across the plains, and large troops of baboons foraging along the roads. 

Hippos are commonly seen near the lake, while buffaloes, zebras, and wildebeests are often found grazing in the park’s savannas. The compact nature of the park allows for easy wildlife viewing, with a high density of animals in a relatively small area. 

Bird Watching

Lake Manyara National Park is a paradise for bird lovers, home to over 400 bird species. The park’s alkaline lake attracts thousands of flamingos, which create a striking pink panorama along the water’s edge. Other notable species include pelicans, storks, and cormorants, as well as forest-dwelling birds like hornbills and turacos. 

The diverse range of ecosystems ensures that birdwatchers have the opportunity to see a wide variety of species in a single visit, making it an ideal destination for both casual and dedicated birders.