Lake Manyara National Park is a pristine gem in Tanzania's Rift Valley region.

This park boasts diverse terrains, from acacia woodlands and savannah grasslands to the dramatic rift valley escarpment. One of the unique Lake Manyara Attractions is the sight of tree-climbing lions, a rare phenomenon in the wild. The park is also home to herds of elephants, which once faced threats such as poaching but now thrive due to the park's conservation efforts.

The shallow, alkaline Lake Manyara is at the heart of the park, covering nearly two-thirds of its expanse. This lake is a primary draw for both wildlife and tourists. Lake Manyara Safari Tours offer glimpses of diverse wildlife and bird species, especially along the lake's shores. Among the Things to Do in Lake Manyara, tourists can enjoy game drives to spot active wildlife, particularly during morning hours, or relish the serene experience of canoeing on the lake. Bird enthusiasts can spot species like flamingos, pelicans, and hornbills. Beyond wildlife, the park's proximity to other Tanzania Safari Tours destinations and Arusha makes it a strategic stopover. For a more cultural experience, tourists can engage with the Maasai tribe in nearby Mto wa Mbu town, enriching their understanding of local traditions and lifestyles.

highlights

Famous For

Tree-Climbing Lions: Witness the unique behaviour of lions climbing trees.

Birdwatcher's Paradise: Spot diverse bird species along Lake Manyara's shores.

Diverse Terrain: Experience the acacia woodlands, savannahs, forests, and the Rift Valley's rocky escarpment.

When To Visit

Dry Season: June to October

Wet Season: November to May

Travel Requirements

Flight Options: Charter/domestic flights to the park's airstrip or a 2-hour drive from Arusha.

Park Access: Multiple gates, northern preferred. Entrance fees vary.

Visa Requirement: A Tanzanian visa is needed for international guests. Pre-application advised.

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Lake Manyara National Park

everything you need to know

The Lake Manyara National Park is known for its tree-climbing lions, diverse bird species, and large, shallow lake, making it a distinctive safari destination.

Yes, the Lake Manyara National Park can be visited all year round. However, wildlife is more prominent during the dry season (June to October), as animals gather around water sources. So, many consider it the Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara.

You can reach the Lake Manyara National Park through charter or domestic flights to the park's airstrip or a two-hour road trip from Arusha.

On Lake Manyara Safari Tours, tourists can enjoy game drives, nature walks, canoeing, bird watching, and cultural visits to nearby communities.

Expect to see tree-climbing lions, large herds of elephants, various bird species, gazelles, hippos, leopards, and many other animals on Lake Manyara Safari Tours.

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Season: Shoulder Season / Avg Temp: 31°C / Highlight: Great Migration Calving Season

January in Tanzania welcomes warm and mostly dry weather, with occasional nighttime showers following the brief November-December rains. This period is exceptional on the Ndutu Plains due to the calving season. By month's end, visitors are treated to an impressive spectacle of numerous wildebeest, making it a prime time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit.

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