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Overview About

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is a scenic gem in northern Tanzania, set beneath the dramatic cliffs of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Famous for its tree-climbing lions and vast flocks of flamingos, it offers diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife in a compact area.

From groundwater forests and open grasslands to the alkaline lake itself, Manyara is a park of remarkable variety. A popular gateway to the northern safari circuit, it is an enchanting stop on the way to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

Quick Facts About

Lake Manyara National Park

Aspects
Description
Location
Manyara Region, Tanzania
Famous For
Tree-Climbing Lions & Flamingos
Size
330 km²
Wildlife
Tree-Climbing Lions, Elephants & Flamingos
Activities
Game Drives, Bird Watching, Forest Walks

Why Visit

Lake Manyara National Park

Tree-Climbing Lions

See the park's famous lions lounging in the branches of acacia trees.

Flamingos & Birdlife

Watch flamingos line the lake and spot over 400 bird species.

Diverse Landscapes

Explore groundwater forest, grasslands, and the alkaline lake in one park.

Elephants & Wildlife

Spot elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, and baboons.

Rift Valley Scenery

Enjoy dramatic views beneath the towering escarpment.

Gateway to the North

A perfect first stop on the northern Tanzania safari circuit.

Top Things To Do

Lake Manyara National Park

Game Drives

Look for tree-climbing lions, elephants, and plains game.

Flamingo & Bird Watching

Admire flamingos and hundreds of other bird species.

Groundwater Forest Walks

Explore the lush forest fed by underground springs.

Canopy Walkway

Enjoy a treetop walk for a unique view of the forest.

Hippo Pools

Watch hippos and birdlife at the lake's edge.

Night Game Drives

Spot nocturnal wildlife where available.

Photo Gallery

Travel Tips

What To Pack

  • Neutral-colored clothing
  • Camera with zoom lens
  • Binoculars
  • Sunscreen & hat
  • Light jacket for mornings
  • Insect repellent

Getting There

  • Road transfer from Arusha (approx. 2 hours)
  • Often combined with Serengeti and Ngorongoro

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Language

English and Swahili

June – October

Dry Season

✔ Best Wildlife Viewing

✔ Easy Game Driving

✔ Clear Skies

✔ Great Photography


November – December

Short Rains

✔ Lush Scenery

✔ Excellent Birdwatching

✔ Fewer Crowds


January – May

Green Season

✔ Flamingos & Migratory Birds

✔ Newborn Wildlife

✔ Dramatic Landscapes

Frequently Asked Questions

Its tree-climbing lions, large flamingo flocks, and diverse landscapes beneath the Rift Valley escarpment.
Yes. Lake Manyara is one of the few places in Africa known for its tree-climbing lions.
A half-day to full-day visit is typical, often as part of a northern Tanzania circuit.
Yes. With over 400 species and abundant flamingos, it is a superb birding destination.

Top Rated Tours

Private Tour
Combined Kenya and Tanzania
Kenya
From $ 6,500
Private Tour
Tanzania Private Safaris
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From $ 7,600
Private Tour
Combined Kenya and Tanzania
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From $ 5,400
Private Tour
Combined Kenya and Tanzania
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From $ 5,685
Private Tour
Combined Kenya and Tanzania
Kenya
From $ 5,870
Day Tour
Day Trip, Kenya Private Safaris
Kenya
From $ 150
Private Tour
Kenya Private Safaris
Kenya
From $ 1,320
Private Tour
Kenya Private Safaris
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From $ 2,560
Private Tour
Kenya Private Safaris
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From $ 1,250
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