Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park packs a soda lake, groundwater forest and open grassland into one compact park beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
A Small Park With Remarkable Diversity
Inside Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
Lake Manyara National Park sits beneath the dramatic escarpment of the Great Rift Valley in Tanzania’s Arusha Region. Though compact, it packs in a striking range of habitats, from shaded groundwater forest to open grassland and the shimmering soda lake itself.
The park is best known for its rare tree-climbing lions, a behaviour found in only a handful of African parks, alongside healthy elephant herds and, in season, thousands of flamingos gathered along the shoreline.
Why Lake Manyara National Park Is Worth The Stop
Rare Tree-Climbing Lions
A rare behaviour found in only a handful of African parks, best spotted resting in the park’s acacia trees.
Spectacular Flamingo Flocks
Thousands of flamingos gather along the lake shoreline when conditions are right.
A Lush Groundwater Forest
A shaded, lush habitat unlike anywhere else in the region, fed by underground springs.
Healthy Elephant Herds
Healthy elephant populations roam the park’s varied terrain year-round.
Dramatic Rift Valley Views
The Great Rift Valley escarpment frames the lake with dramatic, photogenic scenery.
Rich Birdlife
Over 400 recorded bird species make this one of Tanzania’s richest birding parks.
WHEN TO GO
When To Visit Lake Manyara National Park
The Dry Season
Wildlife concentrates near the lake and the forest edge, easing spotting.
Flamingo Season
Large flamingo flocks gather along the shoreline during these months.
The Long Rains
Lush green scenery, with noticeably fewer visitors on the road.
Peak Season
The clearest skies of the year, and the best overall game viewing.
WILDLIFE
Wildlife You Can Expect To See In Lake Manyara
From the Big Five to the smallest creatures, Lake Manyara National Park holds a surprising range of wildlife for its size.
Lion
Elephant
Flamingo
Baboon
Hippo
EXPERIENCES
Things To Do In Lake Manyara National Park
Guided Game Drives
Search the forest and grassland for the park’s famous tree-climbing lions.
Canoeing On The Lake
Paddle the lake’s shallow waters when water levels allow.
Birdwatching
Explore one of the richest birding parks in northern Tanzania.
Cultural Visits
Meet local communities living along the park’s edge.
Rift Valley Viewpoint
Take in sweeping views over the lake from the escarpment above.
Start Planning Your Lake Manyara Safari
Tell us your travel dates and we will build a private Lake Manyara itinerary around the season and experiences you want most.