LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK – A NATURAL PARADISE NESTLED BELOW THE GREAT RIFT VALLEY

About Lake Manyara National Park

Tucked beneath the dramatic escarpment of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara National Park is a true gem of northern Tanzania. Though relatively small in size, the park offers an exceptional diversity of wildlife, landscapes, and unique safari experiences, making it a favorite among both first-time and seasoned travelers. Just a short drive from Arusha or en route to the more famous Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara is an ideal stop for those seeking breathtaking scenery and remarkable biodiversity in a compact area.

At NK Safaris, we believe Lake Manyara is one of Tanzania’s most underrated treasures. Its blend of open savannah, lush groundwater forests, alkaline soda lake, and hot springs provides a stunning backdrop for a memorable safari adventure. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or as part of a longer northern circuit safari, Lake Manyara National Park never fails to impress.

Unique Features of Lake Manyara National Park

Covering approximately 330 square kilometers, with two-thirds of its area occupied by the lake itself, Lake Manyara National Park is known for its scenic beauty and ecological variety. The park’s diverse habitats support an incredible range of wildlife and bird species. Visitors can transition from dense fig and mahogany forests to open grassy floodplains, all within a short game drive.

One of the park’s most iconic features is its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior not commonly seen elsewhere in Tanzania. The sight of these majestic predators lounging in the branches is a truly unforgettable experience. Additionally, the backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment adds a dramatic edge to the already picturesque surroundings.

Wildlife of Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara National Park offers outstanding game viewing opportunities. Although smaller than some of Tanzania’s larger parks, it is densely packed with wildlife. Large herds of elephants roam the park, and buffalos, giraffes, wildebeests, and zebras are frequently spotted grazing on the plains.

Hippos thrive in the lake’s shallow waters, often visible wallowing during the day. Warthogs, baboons, and blue monkeys are common in the forested areas, while lucky visitors might catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard or the famous tree-climbing lions.

For bird lovers, Lake Manyara is a paradise, home to over 400 recorded bird species. The lake often shimmers with flocks of pink flamingos, especially during the wet season. Pelicans, storks, herons, spoonbills, and a wide variety of waterfowl also populate the lake’s edges, making it a dream location for ornithologists and photographers alike.

Activities in Lake Manyara National Park

At NK Safaris, we offer a range of curated experiences in Lake Manyara National Park to ensure our guests enjoy every aspect of this dynamic ecosystem:

• Game Drives
  Explore the park’s varied landscapes in comfort with our guided game drives. Morning and afternoon safaris offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography in different lighting conditions.
• Canoeing (Seasonal)
  When water levels permit, canoeing on Lake Manyara is a serene and scenic experience, offering a rare perspective of the park’s aquatic life and bird populations.
• Birdwatching
  With its prolific birdlife, Lake Manyara is one of Tanzania’s top birding destinations. Our experienced guides help you identify both resident and migratory species.
• Walking Safaris
  For those seeking a more immersive adventure, guided walking safaris allow you to connect more deeply with nature. Accompanied by armed rangers, guests can explore parts of the park on foot, learning about tracks, plants, and animal behavior.
• Visit to Maji Moto (Hot Springs)
  Located at the southern end of the park, the Maji Moto hot springs are a unique geothermal feature where you can witness the steaming water bubbling up from the earth in a tranquil setting.
• Cultural Tours in Mto wa Mbu
  Just outside the park’s gate lies the vibrant town of Mto wa Mbu. A visit here adds a cultural layer to your safari, with opportunities to interact with local communities, taste traditional cuisine, and learn about the region’s diverse tribal heritage.

Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara National Park is a year-round destination, but the dry season from June to October is the best time for general wildlife viewing. During this time, animals congregate around water sources, and the park’s roads are easier to navigate.

The wet season from November to May brings a lush, green landscape and attracts thousands of migratory birds, including flamingos. While some roads can become muddy and certain areas harder to access, this period offers excellent birdwatching and fewer crowds, ideal for a peaceful safari experience.

How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara is conveniently located just 126 kilometers (approximately 2 hours) west of Arusha by road. It is easily accessible as a stop on the northern safari circuit, especially for travelers heading to Tarangire, Ngorongoro, or Serengeti.

The park is also served by Lake Manyara Airstrip, with regular flights from Arusha, Zanzibar, and Serengeti, making it easy to include in fly-in safaris organized by NK Safaris.

Accommodation Options

There’s a wide range of accommodation around Lake Manyara to suit every traveler’s style and budget:

• Luxury Lodges: Offering panoramic views, fine dining, and high-end amenities.
• Mid-Range Tented Camps and Lodges: Comfortable with great locations and excellent service.
• Budget Campsites and Guesthouses: Affordable yet safe and welcoming, ideal for backpackers and adventure seekers.

Many properties are located in Mto wa Mbu or perched along the Rift Valley escarpment, offering sweeping views over the park and lake.

Why Choose Lake Manyara National Park with NK Safaris?

At NK Safaris, we curate unforgettable experiences in Lake Manyara National Park that go beyond just game drives. From birdwatching and walking safaris to cultural immersions and scenic viewpoints, our expert guides are passionate about revealing the park’s hidden wonders.

Whether you’re planning a short visit or incorporating Manyara into a longer Tanzania safari, this park is a perfect mix of accessibility, natural beauty, and authentic adventure. It’s a destination that surprises and delights – and we’re here to help you experience it in the most enriching way possible.

Contact NK Safaris today to include Lake Manyara National Park in your tailor-made safari itinerary. Let’s explore the wild heart of Tanzania together.