Lake Manyara National Park is a picturesque national park located in northern Tanzania, at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Covering an area of 330 square kilometers, the park is known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and birdlife, as well as its stunning views of the alkaline Lake Manyara.

Features and Highlights

1. Lake Manyara: The park is named after Lake Manyara, a shallow alkaline lake that covers about two-thirds of the park’s total area. The lake is famous for its flocks of flamingos and other water birds.

2. Wildlife: Despite its relatively small size, Lake Manyara National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, and various antelope species. The park is also known for its tree-climbing lions, which are a rare sight in other parts of Africa.

3. Bird Watching: Lake Manyara National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 400 bird species recorded. In addition to flamingos, the park is home to pelicans, storks, herons, and many other water birds.

4. Scenic Landscapes: The park’s diverse landscapes include dense forests, open grassy plains, and acacia woodlands. The backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment adds to the park’s scenic beauty.

5. Hot Springs: The park is home to several hot springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. The Maji Moto hot spring is a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

6. Cultural Heritage: Lake Manyara National Park is located near the traditional homeland of the Maasai people. Visitors can learn about Maasai culture and traditions through cultural tours and visits to local villages.

Getting There

1. By Road: Lake Manyara National Park is located about 126 kilometers west of Arusha and can be reached by road in approximately 2-3 hours. The park has well-maintained roads that are accessible by 2WD vehicles.

2. By Air: The nearest airstrip to Lake Manyara National Park is Lake Manyara Airport, which is located near the town of Mto wa Mbu. Charter flights can be arranged from Arusha and other major cities in Tanzania.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park is during the dry season, from June to September, when wildlife viewing is at its best. The wet season, from November to May, brings lush greenery to the park but can make some areas inaccessible due to flooding.

Activities

1. Game Drives: Game drives are the main activity in Lake Manyara National Park, offering opportunities to see a wide variety of wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon game drives are recommended for the best wildlife sightings.
2. Bird Watching: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a wide variety of bird species to be spotted. Guided birdwatching tours can help you identify the different species.
3. Canoeing: Canoeing on Lake Manyara is a unique way to experience the park and get close to hippos and other wildlife that inhabit the lake. Canoe safaris are usually led by experienced guides.
4. Nature Walks: Guided nature walks are available in the park, offering opportunities to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and learn about its flora and fauna.
5. Cultural Tours: Cultural tours to Maasai villages near the park can be arranged, allowing visitors to learn about Maasai culture and traditions firsthand.

Accommodations

Lake Manyara National Park offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences:

• Luxury Lodges: These lodges offer top-notch accommodations, fine dining, and excellent service. Examples include Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge and Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp.
• Mid-Range Lodges and Camps: These accommodations offer comfortable rooms or tents with basic amenities. Examples include Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge and Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge.
• Budget Campsites: For those on a budget, there are campsites available in the park where you can pitch your own tent. These campsites usually have basic facilities.

Lake Manyara National Park offers a unique safari experience, with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and birdlife. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari enthusiast, Lake Manyara promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Tanzania.