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Destination guide
Lake Manyara National Park: the complete guide
Lake Manyara National Park is a small, scenic park squeezed between a steep Rift Valley escarpment and a shallow soda lake. Groundwater forest, open floodplain, acacia woodland and the lake shore all fit into a short drive. The park is known for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds and hundreds of species of birds.
Here is what to see at Manyara, when to visit and how to fit it into a Tanzania itinerary.
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Tours featuring Lake Manyara National Park
01
Why visit Manyara
Manyara is compact, and its habitats change quickly. A groundwater forest of mahogany and fig trees near the entrance shelters baboons, blue monkeys and forest birds. Further on the floodplain opens up and the lake comes into view, with hippos in pools and pelicans and other water birds along the shore.
The lions here are famous for resting in the branches of acacia trees, though sightings are not guaranteed. The best chance is early morning or late afternoon in the northern part of the park.
02
What to do at Manyara
Game drives
The short drive from the gate to the lake shore passes forest, woodland and floodplain.
Birdwatching
Flamingos, pelicans, storks and many forest and woodland species, with the number of waterbirds varying by lake level.
Night drives and walks
Available in some adjoining areas outside the park boundary.
Hot springs
Hot springs in the south of the park are a short drive away.
03
Best time to visit
June to October
Great
Dry season, good game viewing and easy driving.
January to February
Good
Short dry spell with green landscapes.
March to May
Green/Wet
Long rains. Fewer visitors, higher lake and muddy tracks.
November to December
Good
Short rains and good birding.
04
How to get to Manyara
By road
About 2 hours from Arusha on a good tarmac road, then a short drive to the gate.
As part of a circuit
Manyara is usually the first stop on the way to Ngorongoro and the Serengeti.
05
Combining Manyara with other parks
Pair Manyara with Tarangire, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. A night at the escarpment gives you views over the lake.
06
Frequently asked questions
Is Lake Manyara worth visiting?
Yes. It is a beautiful short stop with unusual habitats, lots of birds and a chance of tree-climbing lions.
Do lions really climb trees at Manyara?
Sometimes. Lions here are known to rest in acacia trees, but sightings vary by season.
How long should I stay?
A half day to one day is enough for most visitors.
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