Lake Manyara

The Rift Valley's Wildlife & Birding Paradise

Lake Manyara National Park is one of the most geographically diverse destinations on Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit. Located beneath the dramatic wall of the Great Rift Valley, the park combines groundwater forests, acacia woodland, open floodplains, wetlands, hot springs and the shallow alkaline Lake Manyara. TANAPA lists the park at approximately 648.7 km².

Although relatively compact, Manyara contains an impressive concentration of different habitats. Freshwater springs emerging from the Rift Valley escarpment support evergreen groundwater forests, while the lake and wetlands provide habitat for flamingos, pelicans, storks and numerous other waterbirds.

The Famous Tree-Climbing Lions One of Manyara's signature experiences is the possibility of seeing lions resting in the branches of trees. Although lions elsewhere can also climb trees, Manyara is particularly associated with this behavior. Nature & Surroundings The scenery changes dramatically as you drive through the park: Groundwater Forest → Acacia Woodland → Floodplain → Lake Shore → Rift Valley Escarpment The escarpment creates a spectacular backdrop overlooking the lake and surrounding plains. Hot springs in the southern part of the park are another reminder of the area's active geological history. History & Recognition Lake Manyara was established as a National Park in 1960, having previously been a game reserve, and became part of a World Biosphere Reserve in 1981. The park has also been associated with pioneering research on African elephants by Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton.

Typical seasonal pattern June–October: Excellent for general wildlife viewing, with drier conditions. November–February: Good for birdwatching, green landscapes and migratory birds. March–May: The long rains bring lush vegetation and fewer visitors, although some conditions can be wetter and access may vary. Best For Wildlife | Birdwatching | Families | Photography | Short Safaris | Nature Lovers Buffalo Weaver Experience A Lake Manyara safari can be combined naturally with Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti, making it an excellent introduction to Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit.

Wildlife Lake Manyara is particularly famous for: African elephants Tree-climbing lions Buffalo Giraffe Zebra Wildebeest Hippos Baboons Blue monkeys Bushbuck Warthogs Various antelope species The park also has more than 400 recorded bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, fish eagles, spoonbills, storks, herons, bee-eaters and migratory species.