Lake Manyara
The shallow alkaline lake forms the visual heart of the park and attracts a variety of waterbirds and other wildlife.
Tanzania • Northern Circuit
Lake Manyara National Park
A compact but remarkably diverse park beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment, where forests, open plains, wetlands and the lake come together in one scenic safari landscape.
Location
Northern Tanzania, below the Great Rift Valley escarpment
Landscape
Lake, forest, wetlands, woodland and open plains
Famous For
Birdlife, elephants, forest scenery and tree-climbing lions
About Lake Manyara
Where forest meets the Great Rift Valley
Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania's most varied northern safari destinations. Although relatively compact, the park contains a surprising range of habitats within a short distance.
The Great Rift Valley escarpment rises above the park, creating a dramatic setting for the lake, groundwater forests, woodland and open areas.
The park is particularly interesting for travellers who enjoy landscapes as much as wildlife. The atmosphere can change quickly as you move from forest to open plains and toward the lake.
Lake Manyara can be visited as a day safari or included naturally in a longer northern Tanzania itinerary.
What You'll Discover
The many faces of Lake Manyara
From groundwater forest to open floodplain and lake shore, Lake Manyara offers a variety of scenery and wildlife experiences within a relatively small area.
Groundwater Forest
Lush forest creates a cool, shaded environment that is very different from the open savannah landscapes found elsewhere on safari.
Tree-Climbing Lions
Lake Manyara is associated with lions sometimes seen resting in trees, although wildlife behaviour and sightings are never guaranteed.
Birdlife
The lake and surrounding habitats make the park an appealing destination for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
The Lake Manyara Experience
A short safari with remarkable variety
Lake Manyara is a useful addition to a northern Tanzania journey when you want wildlife, scenery and a change of landscape without spending several days in one park.
- Game drives through forest, woodland and open areas
- Scenic views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment
- Opportunities to observe elephants and other wildlife
- Excellent birdwatching around wetland and lake habitats
- A convenient stop between Arusha and the Ngorongoro area
Wildlife
Wildlife from forest to lake
Lake Manyara's changing habitats support a variety of animals. Forest areas, open plains and the lake shore each create different opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Elephants, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, hippos and several species of monkeys may be encountered, depending on the season and location.
The park is also well known for its birdlife. Waterbirds and other species can be especially interesting around the lake and wetland areas.
As with every wild destination, sightings are natural encounters rather than guarantees.
What you may encounter
- Elephants
- Buffalo
- Giraffe
- Zebra
- Wildebeest
- Hippos
- Warthog
- Baboons
- Monkeys
- Lions
- Birdlife
- Waterbirds
Things To Do
Experience Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara can be adapted to different interests, from classic wildlife viewing to birdwatching, photography and exploring the area's remarkable landscapes.
Game Drives
Explore the park by safari vehicle and move through forests, woodland, open areas and lake landscapes.
Birdwatching
Discover the variety of birds supported by the lake, wetlands, forest and surrounding habitats.
Photography
Capture wildlife, forest scenery, the lake and dramatic Rift Valley views during your safari.
Scenic Landscapes
Enjoy views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the changing landscapes around the park.
Wildlife Viewing
Look for elephants, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, hippos, primates and other wildlife across different habitats.
Northern Circuit
Combine Lake Manyara with Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti and other northern Tanzania destinations.
When To Visit
Choosing the right season
Lake Manyara can be visited throughout the year. The landscape and wildlife experience change with rainfall, water levels and seasonal conditions.
June – October
The drier season is popular for safari travel, with generally easier road conditions and good opportunities for wildlife viewing. The surrounding landscapes can also offer clear scenic views.
November – May
The landscape can become greener, while birdwatching can be particularly rewarding. Seasonal rainfall may affect road conditions and the appearance of the lake and surrounding habitats.
Why Visit Lake Manyara?
A small park with a big change of scenery
Lake Manyara is particularly useful for travellers who want to experience a different side of northern Tanzania between Arusha and the Ngorongoro area.
The combination of forest, lake, wildlife and Rift Valley scenery makes it a natural addition to a tailor-made Tanzania safari.
Lake & Wetlands
A different environment from the open savannahGreen Forest
Lush forest creates a unique safari atmosphereBirdlife
A rewarding destination for birdwatchersRift Valley
Dramatic escarpment scenery surrounds the park
Your Lake Manyara Safari
Add Lake Manyara to your Tanzania journey
Tell us your travel dates, number of travellers and the experience you are looking for. We can include Lake Manyara as a day safari or as part of a longer northern Tanzania itinerary.
Plan Your Journey