Lake Manyara National Park sits at the base of the Rift Valley escarpment, and the park's own site describes a landscape of groundwater forest, open grassland and a shallow soda lake. It is the nearest of the northern parks to Arusha, so a day safari can be done at an easier pace than Ngorongoro or Tarangire. The forest, with mahogany and fig trees, shelters blue monkeys and baboons. The lake draws flamingos and other water birds in season, and the park is famous for its lions that rest in tree branches, though seeing them takes luck. Elephants, giraffe, hippos and buffalo are all possible. The park is more varied than it is huge, so a half-day to full-day drive covers most of it. Many travellers combine it with a stop at the escarpment viewpoint or a lunch in the park.
The park is narrow, squeezed between the lake and the escarpment, which means habitats change every few minutes. You may drive from open floodplain into dense forest within minutes, which is great for photography and for variety, and it is one reason the park suits families and first-timers. Birdwatchers will find it among the best of the northern circuit, with water birds on the lake and forest species in the trees.
What to expect
The lake level and the flamingos vary from year to year, so ask your guide what is happening on the day rather than expecting a pink shoreline. The park's site mentions a canopy tree walk and day game drives as activities; check with your operator whether the canopy walk is included, because it is usually an add-on. The park is open year-round, and gates close at 6 pm.
Practical points
It is a good day for visitors who dislike very long drives, because the road to the gate is shorter than for Tarangire or the crater. Park fees are charged per day and change, so confirm what your tour includes. Bring binoculars, a hat and a light waterproof for the green season. The escarpment road offers wide views over the lake and is worth a photograph stop. If you plan a longer trip later, Manyara pairs naturally with Ngorongoro and Tarangire, but this guide covers it as a day on its own.
What to expect
The experience
A guided game drive through the forest, grassland and lakeshore of Lake Manyara National Park in a 4x4, usually with a picnic lunch.
Best time
Year-round; the green season for birds and the dry season for easier sightings of larger animals.
How long
A full day for most tours, with a shorter drive to the gate than at Ngorongoro or Tarangire.
Tips
Ask about the canopy walk, bring binoculars and do not count on the flamingos, whose numbers change year to year.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families, birders and anyone who wants a gentler first day safari.
- Families
- The varied scenery and shorter drive keep children interested; the forest monkeys are a hit.
- Couples
- Lakeside lunch and the view from the escarpment make for a relaxed day out.
- Pair with
- A Maasai village visit or a day at Tarangire.
- Time needed
- A full day, or a long half day.
Good questions
How far is Lake Manyara from Arusha?+
It is the nearest of the northern parks, usually under two hours' drive from Arusha depending on traffic. That makes it the most relaxed of the day safaris.
Will I see tree-climbing lions?+
The park is known for them, but sightings are never guaranteed. Ask your guide where lions have been resting recently.
Are there flamingos all year?+
Numbers vary with the lake level and the season, so check with your guide. The park offers plenty of other birds even when the flamingos are elsewhere.
Is the canopy walk included?+
It is often an optional extra, so ask your operator before you book. The park's site lists the canopy walk as an activity.
Do I pay park fees on top of the tour?+
That depends on the operator, so confirm before you pay. Fees are charged per day and change over time.
