Lake Manyara National Park: Overview
Lake Manyara National Park, located between Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley in Tanzania’s Arusha and Manyara regions, spans 325 km², of which around 230 km² is the lake itself. Managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), this park is known for its stunning landscapes, including the vast soda lake that attracts flamingos and many other bird types. Visitors can witness large troops of baboons, herds of elephants, tree-climbing lions, Zebras and so on.
Video: Lake Manyara National Park Highlights
Wildlife in Lake Manyara National Park
If you love animals, then this is the park for you! The park is home to migratory wildlife, including wildebeest, zebra, and gazelles, especially during the dry season when large herds gather in the park. Herbivores such as buffalo, giraffe, hippos, bushbuck, and impala also thrive in this region. Lake Manyara’s alkaline grasslands are a primary grazing area for wildebeest.
Birdlife in Manyara National Park
With over 400 bird species recorded, Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise. It is home to water-associated birds like pelicans, and, when conditions are ideal, thousands of flamingos flock to the lake to feed and breed. More than 50 bird of prey species, including the crowned eagle and African hawk eagle, have also been observed in Lake Manyara.
Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara
The dry season, from July to late March, is the best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park, as animals gather near water sources. September and October are ideal months for viewing large herds around the remaining waterholes.
Safari Packages for Lake Manyara National Park
Visitors can explore Lake Manyara through various safari packages, including:
Best Places to Stay around Lake Manyara
Our highly recommended lodges near Lake Manyara National Park include:
- Foresight Eco Lodge & Safari
- Heart and Soul Lodge
- Karatu Tented Lodge
- Suricata Boma Lodge
How to Reach Lake Manyara National Park
From Dar es Salaam: The quickest way is to fly from Julius Nyerere Airport to Arusha Airport, followed by a drive to Manyara.
From Zanzibar: Fly from Zanzibar Airport to Arusha, then drive to the park.
International Travelers: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, spend a night in Arusha, then drive to Manyara.
Tips before visiting Lake Manyara National Park
Weather: Lake Manyara is cooler than Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, so pack warm clothing.
Best Time to Visit: The dry season (July to mid-March) offers the best wildlife viewing, while the wet season (March to mid-June) can make travel challenging.
Photography: Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture unforgettable safari moments in Lake Manyara.
