Lake Manyara National Park

Located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is a scenic gem known for its legendary tree-climbing lions, diverse ecosystems, and incredible birdlife. Covering just 330 square kilometers, this compact park packs an astonishing variety of habitats and wildlife into a small area.

330 km²

Park Size

400+

Bird Species

120 km

From Arusha

#1

Tree-Climbing Lions

Wildlife & Nature

Explore the incredible biodiversity of Lake Manyara National Park

🦁 Tree-Climbing Lions

Legendary lions that climb acacia trees
Unique behavior in Tanzania
Best viewing in acacia woodlands
Excellent photographic opportunities

🐘 Big Game Animals

Large herds of elephants
Buffalo herds in grasslands
Giraffes browsing on acacia
Hippos in the lake and rivers

🦜 Bird Watching Paradise

Over 400 bird species recorded
Flamingos (greater & lesser)
Pelicans, storks, and herons
Fish eagles and hornbills

Lake Manyara

Alkaline soda lake covering up to two-thirds of the park during wet seasons

Diverse Ecosystems

Groundwater forest, acacia woodland, open grasslands, and swamp areas

Great Rift Valley

Dramatic scenery beneath the Rift Valley escarpment walls

Best Time to Visit

Plan your safari according to seasonal highlights

Recommended

June – October (Dry Season)

Best for wildlife viewing
Animals congregate around water
Clear skies for photography
Easier wildlife spotting
Ideal for tree-climbing lion sightings

November – May (Green Season)

Excellent for bird watching
Lush green landscapes
Fewer tourists
Lower accommodation rates
Pleasant weather with fewer crowds

Year-Round Highlights

Birdlife abundant throughout year
Tree-climbing lions present year-round
Beautiful scenery any season
Good elephant populations
Cultural tours available always

Activities & Experiences

Make the most of your Lake Manyara safari adventure

Game Drives

Morning and afternoon drives to search for tree-climbing lions, elephants, and diverse wildlife

Bird Watching

Spot over 400 bird species including flamingos, pelicans, and raptors in prime birding locations

Walking Safaris Adventure

Guided nature walks in designated areas with armed rangers for up-close wilderness experience

Cultural Tours

Visit nearby villages and markets to experience local cultures and traditional ways of life

Location & How to Get There

Find Lake Manyara National Park in Northern Tanzania

📍 Park Location Details

Location: Northern Tanzania, Manyara Region

Distance from Arusha: 120 km (2 hours drive)

Park Size: 330 square kilometers

Altitude: 960 - 1,828 meters above sea level

Nearest Town: Mto wa Mbu (vibrant market town)

Nearest Airport: Kilimanjaro International (JRO)

🚗 Transportation Options

By Road: Scenic drive from Arusha via highway

Safari Vehicle: 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof

By Air: Charter flights to Manyara airstrip

Park Gates: Main gate, northern boundary access

Travel Tips

Best Entry Time: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Park Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Park Fees: Required (included in packages)

Guide: Recommended for all activities

Circuit: Part of Northern Safari Circuit

Nearby Parks: Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti

Lake Manyara National Park