Lake Manyara National Park is a compact but wonderfully diverse destination, offering a mix of lush forests, open plains, and the shimmering waters of Lake Manyara itself. Its varied landscapes create a rich habitat for wildlife and make the park an ideal stop on a northern Tanzania safari.
A Park of Contrasts
The entrance leads through dense groundwater forest filled with fig and mahogany trees, where baboons and blue monkeys are often seen. As the forest opens up, the scenery shifts to wide grasslands and the expansive soda lake, which attracts thousands of flamingos when conditions are right.
Wildlife and Birdlife
Lake Manyara is known for:
- Large troops of baboons and playful monkeys
- Elephants moving through the forests
- Hippos resting in the lake shallows
- Treeclimbing lions, a rare and fascinating behavior
- More than 400 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers
The mix of habitats means wildlife viewing is varied and often surprising.
Best Time to Visit
The park can be visited yearround. The dry season (June–October) offers clearer wildlife viewing, while the green season brings lush scenery and excellent birdlife.
Why Visit
- Beautiful, varied landscapes in a relatively small area
- Excellent birdwatching opportunities
- Unique wildlife experiences, including the chance to see treeclimbing lions
- A perfect addition to a multipark safari itinerary
