Lake Manyara National Park, located in northern Tanzania along the Great Rift Valley, is one of the country’s most diverse and scenic wildlife areas. Despite its relatively small size (about 330 square kilometers, with nearly two-thirds covered by water), the park is rich in ecosystems ranging from groundwater forests and savannah plains to hot springs and the shimmering alkaline waters of Lake Manyara itself.
Established in 1960, the park is renowned for its spectacular biodiversity, stunning birdlife, and unique wildlife behaviors, making it an essential stop on Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit.
Lake Manyara is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, an intriguing behavior seen in only a few places in Africa. The park is also home to large elephant families, buffalo, giraffe, hippos, zebras, and troops of baboons that roam the evergreen forests. The lake itself attracts thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and numerous other waterbirds, making the park a birdwatcher’s haven with over 400 species recorded.
The park is primarily explored through guided game drives, including scenic circuits along the lakeshore, forests, and hot springs area. Lake Manyara also offers one of Tanzania’s best birdwatching experiences and a unique treetop walkway near the entrance, giving visitors a different perspective of the forest canopy. The park’s size makes it perfect for short but rewarding half-day or full-day safaris.
Visitors can stay at charming lodges and tented camps located near the park gates or on the Rift Valley escarpment, where breathtaking views overlook the lake. Accommodations range from mid-range to luxury, with each option offering easy access to the park’s highlights and viewpoints.
Nairobi road, Arusha, Tanzania, East Africa
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