LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK

Home of the Tree Climbing Lions

Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is a compact gem covering 330 square kilometers. Famous for its tree-climbing lions and shimmering alkaline lake, it offers a diverse safari experience in a lush, scenic setting.

Why Visit?

Lake Manyara is celebrated for its unique blend of habitats groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, open plains, and the vast lake itself. This diversity supports an astonishing variety of wildlife and birdlife, making it one of Tanzania's most enchanting parks.

Why Lake Manyara Captivates the World

Tree-Climbing Lions The park's most iconic residents, often seen lounging on acacia branches a rare behavior in Africa.
Elephant Encounters Dense forests provide sanctuary for large elephant herds, offering intimate viewing opportunities.
Avian Paradise Over 400 bird species, including flamingos that blanket the lake in pink, pelicans, storks, and raptors.
Scenic Diversity From lush forests to hot springs and the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment, the landscapes are breathtaking.
Compact & Accessible Its smaller size makes for rewarding game drives, perfect for a half-day or full-day safari.

Wildlife Highlights

Tree-Climbing Lions: The park's signature spectacle.
Elephants: Forest giants moving gracefully through lush greenery.
Other Notables: Hippos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, baboons, and blue monkeys.
Birdlife: Flamingos, hornbills, kingfishers, and migratory flocks.

Experiences You'll Never Forget

Game Drives Explore diverse habitats in a single day, from forests to lakeshores.
Birdwatching Spot flamingos, pelicans, and countless other species along the lake.
Photography Capture lions in trees, elephants in forests, and flamingos painting the lake pink.
Cultural Encounters Visit nearby Mto wa Mbu village for a glimpse into local life and traditions.

WHEN TO GO

June – October Dry season: best wildlife viewing, clear skies, and concentrated animals near water.
November – May Green season: lush scenery, migratory birds, and fewer crowds.

GETTING HERE

By Air Flights connect Arusha and other hubs to nearby Lake Manyara airstrip.
By Road Just a 2-hour drive from Arusha, making it one of the most accessible parks in the Northern Circuit.