Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is located in northern Tanzania at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, about 120 kilometres west of Arusha. Established in 1960, the park covers approximately 330 square kilometres, with Lake Manyara occupying a significant portion of the park, especially during the wet season. Despite its relatively small size, the park contains a remarkable variety of habitats, including groundwater forests, open grasslands, acacia woodlands, wetlands, and the alkaline lake. The dramatic Rift Valley escarpment provides a beautiful backdrop and makes Lake Manyara one of Tanzania’s most scenic national parks.

The park supports a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, warthogs, impalas, baboons, and blue monkeys. Lake Manyara is also known for its tree-climbing lions, although sightings are not guaranteed and lions do not spend all their time in trees. The park’s permanent groundwater springs and seasonal wetlands provide important sources of water for wildlife, particularly during dry periods. Its compact size makes it possible to explore several different habitats during a single game drive.

Lake Manyara is also an excellent destination for birdwatching, with more than 400 bird species recorded. The lake and surrounding wetlands attract a variety of waterbirds, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and African fish eagles, while the forests and woodlands support many other resident and migratory species. Its location along the popular northern safari circuit makes it a convenient stop between Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Serengeti. With its diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, rich birdlife, and spectacular Rift Valley scenery, Lake Manyara offers a rewarding safari experience in a relatively compact area.