Introduction
“The loveliest I have seen in Africa.” This is how Ernest Hemingway described this 125-square-mile (325-km2) shallow lake. Nestled against the dramatic Great Rift Valley Escarpment at an altitude of 3,150 feet (960 m), two-thirds of the park is covered by the alkaline waters of Lake Manyara. Despite its small size, it boasts remarkable biodiversity and five distinct vegetation zones.
Wildlife & The Famous Tree-Lions
Lake Manyara is home to large concentrations of elephant and buffalo, alongside Maasai giraffe, zebra, impala, and common waterbuck. In the forested areas, you'll encounter baboons and blue monkeys. If you are very lucky, you may spot the park’s famous tree-climbing lions. Finding them resting in branches is rare, so consider it an unexpected bonus to your safari adventure.
A Birder's Paradise
With 450 recorded species, Manyara is a world-class birding destination. Highlights include 40 varieties of birds of prey like the crowned eagle. You can regularly see saddle-billed storks, southern ground hornbills, silvery-cheeked hornbills, gray-hooded kingfishers, long-tailed fiscals, spotted morning thrushes, and black-winged red bishops. At lower lake levels, tens of thousands of greater and lesser flamingos provide a stunning pink blanket over the water.
Best Time to Visit & Planning
The best time to visit is December to March, followed by June to October. Activities include night game drives with bush dinners, mountain biking, and walking along the escarpment edge. The northern part of the park can be crowded; we recommend spending time exploring the southern section for a quieter experience. The park turnoff is past Mto wa Mbu, about 75 miles (120 km) west of Arusha.
Vegetation Zones
Ground-Water Forest
Located near the entrance and fed by the Rift Wall. Features wild fig, sausage, tamarind, and mahogany trees. Preferred by elephants.
Lake Marshlands
The edges of the lake where water levels fluctuate, supporting pelicans and storks when high, and flamingos when low.
The Rift Wall
A dramatic vertical landscape featuring scrub vegetation that clings to the Great Rift Valley Escarpment.
Acacia & Grasslands
Open areas with scattered acacia and expansive grasslands that support the park's grazers like zebra and impala.
Unique Attractions
Manyara Tree Top Walkway: Located near the northern entrance, this series of suspension bridges reaches 60 feet (18 m) high. It allows guests to observe monkeys, birds, and butterflies in the canopy from viewing decks built around tree trunks.
Flamingo Walkway: Offers excellent views of the thousands of flamingos that seasonally inhabit the lake shore.
Accommodation Inside the Park
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge
The only permanent lodge within the park, located in a remote southwestern mahogany forest. Features 10 luxury treehouse suites, a safari shop, boma, pool, and massage sala. A 2-night stay is recommended due to the 2-hour drive from the gate.
Accommodation on the Periphery
Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge
Classic luxury on the rim of the Rift Valley. 52 suites with inside/outside showers, air-conditioning, fireplaces, and an infinity pool overlooking the park.
Escarpment Luxury Lodge
Perched on the rim with 16 chalets and private decks. Offers incredible views and cycling tours to the nearby village of Mto wa Mbu.
Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
Overlooking the park from 1,000 feet above. Features 67 rooms, a pool, and guided walks along the escarpment and to Mto wa Mbu village.