This is a detailed overview of  Lake Manyara National Park!

Lake Manyara National Park Location and Size

Manyara NP is located in northern Tanzania, within the Arusha and Manyara Regions, covering an area of 325 km² (125 sq mi).

The park is located 126 km southwest of Arusha and can be reached by car in about an hour and a half.

It’s also accessible from Babati, the capital of the Manyara Region, and nearby L. Manyara Airport.

The park covers an area of 325 km², with approximately 230 km² being lake surface.

It’s nestled between L. Manyara and the Great Rift Valley and is relatively small compared to other nearby wildlife destinations like Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater / Conservation Area.

Despite its smaller size, Manyara NP offers a diverse wildlife viewing experience, featuring attractions like tree-climbing lions, buffalo, large herds of elephants, and over 400 bird species.

The park is part of the Lake Manyara Biosphere Reserve and the Lake Manyara Important Bird Area and is surrounded by other protected areas, including the Marang Forest Reserve and the Kwa Kuchinja Wildlife Migration Corridor.

Geography Of Manyara National Park

The park is situated in the Rift Valley, a geographical feature characterized by faults, volcanoes, and lakes.

The park’s centerpiece is Lake Manyara, a shallow alkaline lake that covers two-thirds of the park.

The lake’s depth and surface area fluctuate significantly, with a maximum depth of 3.7 meters (12 feet) and a width of 40 kilometers (25 miles) during the rainy season.

The lake is fed by underground springs and permanent streams from the surrounding Ngorongoro Highlands.

The park’s terrain is diverse, with a steep escarpment rising to 600 meters (2,000 feet) above the lake, covered in dense ground water forest on the south side and home to a wide variety of large mammals.

The park’s vegetation includes the ground water forest, acacia woodlands, and open grasslands.

Other notable features of the park include a hippopotamus pool, two hot springs, and the Maji Moto hot water springs, a 60°C geothermal feature.

Manyara Climate

Manyara National Park has a warm and humid climate with two rainy seasons.

The “long rains” fall from March to May, with April being the wettest month, receiving 161 mm (6.3 in) of rainfall, while the “short rains” fall from November to December.

The driest months are July, August, and September, with September having the lowest rainfall, receiving only 1 mm (0.039 in) of rainfall, and the fewest rainy days, with an average of only 2 days.

Temperature-wise, the park experiences a relatively narrow range of temperatures throughout the year.

Daytime temperatures range from 25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to 15°C (59°F) during the dry season, which runs from June to October.

The park’s humidity levels are relatively high, ranging from 60% to 80% throughout the year.

Additionally, the park receives an average of 7-8 hours of sunshine per day, making it an ideal travel destination for wildlife viewing during the drier season, which runs from June to October.

Manyara National Park History

Manyara NP has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century.

Initially, the area was used for sports hunting in the 1920s, and later, in 1957, a game reserve was established.

Three years later, in 1960, the reserve was upgraded to a national park, with an additional 550 hectares added to the southern end in 1974.

The park is situated in the northwest quadrant of Lake Manyara, covering approximately 200 square kilometers.

It’s part of the larger L. Manyara Biosphere Reserve, which was established by UNESCO in 1981 as part of its Man and the Biosphere Programme.

Today, Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania’s oldest and most popular game parks, attracting visitors worldwide among others like Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, etc.

Manyara Park Management—Who Manages Manyara NP?

Manyara NP is managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), a government agency responsible for conserving the country’s game parks, such as Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, etc.

TANAPA’s main goals for the park include:

• Conserving natural resources, including wildlife and ecosystems
• Protecting cultural and historical resources
• Promoting sustainable tourism that benefits local communities and conserves resources
• Collaborating with local communities to promote conservation and sustainable livelihoods

Overall, TANAPA works to preserve the park’s unique ecosystem, which supports a diverse range of fauna, including large herds of elephants, leopards, and birds.

Interesting Facts About Lake Manyara National Park

Some of the fun facts about Manyara NP are:

1)      Lake Manyara National Park is home to a unique ecosystem that supports a wide variety of fauna, including large herds of elephants, buffalo, leopards, and birds.

2) The park’s lake, “Lake Manyara,” is alkaline, which means it has a high pH level. This makes it one of the diverse habitats for certain species of birds and fish.

3)      The park is one of the few places in Africa where you can see climbing lions that have adapted to climbing trees to escape the heat and find prey.

4)      Lake Manyara is famous for its large flocks of pink flamingos, which can number in the hundreds of thousands.

5)      The park is home to a diverse range of fauna, including large herds of African elephants, leopards, buffalo, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and over 400 species of birds.

6)      The lake in the park, Manyara, is also an important source of soda ash, which is mined from the lake’s surface.

7)      Lake Manyara National Park is one of TZ’s oldest national parks, established in 1960.

8)      It is located in the Rift Valley, a geographical feature that runs from Lebanon to Mozambique.

9)      Manyara NP is home to the Maasai people, a traditional tribe that has lived in the area nearby that is the Mto Wa Mbu Village for centuries.

10)  The Manyara NP is home to several geothermal features, such as the Maj Moto hot springs on the lake’s western shores, which are a sight to see when on a Lake Manyara safari.

All these listed above make Lake Manyara National Park a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Amazing Things to See at Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park offers a unique and exciting trip experience, boasting a diverse range of fauna, landscapes, and cultural experiences. These are some of the park’s unique attractions:

1)   Lake Manyara

This is a major attraction, as it holds significance for being the source of the park’s name.

1. Manyara is a shallow soda ash lake in the nation’s Rift Valley System, covering 230 sq km.

Its water level fluctuates with rainfall and evaporation, and it has no outflow.

It is home to diverse fauna, including hippos, crocodiles, fish, and bird species. Its shores offer stunning scenery, with the Rift Valley Escarpment and thousands of pink flamingo species.

2)   Tree Climbing Lions

These are a unique sight. They lounge in acacia trees to escape heat, find shade, and hunt. Witnessing these famous majestic creatures is a highlight of visiting the park, particularly during the drier season from June to October.

3)   Large Flocks of Pink Flamingos

1. Manyara’s pink flamingo species are a breathtaking sight on the shores. Hundreds of thousands congregate in shallow, alkaline waters, feeding on crustaceans and algae.

They are best seen during the drier season (June-October); their vibrant color and social behavior make them a photographer’s dream subject.

Other Stunning Lake Manyara National Park Animals

Additionally, the park is home to several other large mammals, such as

4)   Other Bird Species at Manyara NP

Besides the famous flamingo species, there are over 390 species of birds documented in the national park, including:

5)   Unique Flora in Manyara NP

Lake Manyara National Park is home to a diverse range of flora, with over 670 flowering plant acacia woodlands and fern species documented.

The park’s ground water forest is dominated by species such as Trichilia roka, broad-leaved croton, sycamore fig, quinine, and forest toad trees.

The woodlands are characterized by Acacia tortilis, Commiphora species, yellow fever trees, and palm Phoenix reclinata.

The swamps are home to papyrus, water lily, water lettuce, cattails, and various Cyperus species.

The grasslands are dominated by Cynodon dactylon, Sporobolus spicatus, Sporobolus consimilis, and Psilolemma jaegeri.

Other notable vegetation in the park includes baobab trees, tamarind trees, doum palm trees, and Commiphora shrubs.

6)   Fish Fauna

1. Manyara is home to the famous endangered Oreochromis amphimelas fish species, a type of cichlid found only in Tanzania.

This species also inhabits other saline lakes with closed basins.

Fishing is prohibited within Manyara NP to conserve this species, which serves as a vital breeding ground to replenish depleted fish populations.

7)   Other Outstanding Landscapes in Manyara

Manyara National Park is renowned for its breathtaking and diverse landscapes, including:

• The Rift Valley Escarpment

The park’s landscape is dominated by a dramatic wall of cliffs that rises from Lake Manyara’s shores, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape worth exploring.

• Maj Moto Hot Springs

Natural hot springs that bubble up from the earth create a unique and fascinating landscape feature.

The diverse and unique landscape features combine to create a unique and breathtakingly beautiful environment that supports an incredible array of fauna.

8)   Maasai People

The Maasai people, an indigenous ethnic group, have lived in Tanzania’s Manyara region for centuries. They reside primarily in the Simanjiro (southwest of L. Manyara), Kiteto (southeast of L. Manyara), and Mbulu districts (northwest of L. Manyara).

As semi-nomadic pastoralists, they live in harmony with nature, relying on livestock for sustenance.

The Maasai are known for their vibrant Maasai culture, traditional attire, rich cultural practices, expertise in livestock herding, and deep respect for the environment.

All these can be seen while on a Lake Manyara safari!

Top Lake Manyara National Park Tourist Activities

Manyara NP offers a wide range of exciting activities for an unforgettable trip experience. Here are the top activities to consider:

1)    Wildlife Viewing

Manyara National Park offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, featuring the Big Five, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, hippos, etc. The best viewing times are during the drier season (June-October) and the rainy season (November-May), when fauna congregate around the lake’s shores.

Some animal species can be seen in the park’s ground water forest on the south side.

2)    Game Drive

Explore the park’s diverse habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, to spot incredible fauna like climbing lions, zebras, large herds of elephants, and giraffes. Animal drives can be done at various times, including morning, afternoon, evening, and full-day excursions.

Please remember that night safaris are to be booked in advance!

3)    Birdwatching

With over 400 species of birds, Manyara NP is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Take a guided tour to spot rare and endangered species, including the Grey-crowned crane, yellow-billed storks, Fischer’s sparrow lark, lesser flamingo, and other species.

These are found in several birding spots and vegetation zones, especially the ground water forest in the south!

4)    Cultural Experiences and Community Visits

Visit local Maasai communities to learn about their traditional way of life, culture, and customs. This activity offers a unique opportunity to interact with the local people and gain insight into their daily lives.

These get food from the park’s ground water forest!

5)    Guided Nature Walks

Embark on a guided walking safari to discover the park’s unique flora and fauna. This activity allows for a more intimate connection with nature and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, especially the ground water forest.

6)    Boat Cruise Safaris

Take a leisurely boat ride on L. Manyara to enjoy the scenic views and spot fauna like hippos, crocodiles, and water bird types, among other picturesque views.

7)    Canoeing

Explore the park’s aquatic life by paddling through the lake’s shallow waters. This activity provides a unique perspective on the park’s ecosystem and offers opportunities to spot hippos, flamingos, and other aquatic species.

Guidelines For Visiting Lake Manyara National Park for Tours

As you go out for a Lake Manyara safari, it is important to remember to follow these important rules and regulations issued by park authorities.

• Obtain necessary permits and pay park fees
• Choose a reputable tour operator
• Stay on designated trails
• Keep a safe distance from wild animals
• No feeding wildlife
• No littering
• Respect wildlife’s diverse habitats
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Ensure vehicle safety
• Support the local community
• Respect local culture
• Conserve the environment

Lake Manyara National Park Fees and Tariffs

Some of the rates and costs you may incur while on a Tanzania safari at Manyara are

1)    Entrance Fees

2)    Other Fees

• Vehicle fees range from $10 to $20 per vehicle per day for non-residents, while residents pay between Tsh 1,000 and Tsh 2,000 per vehicle per day.
• Camping fees are $10 to $20 per person per night for public campsites and $20 to $30 per person per night for special campsites.
• Guided walking safaris cost $20 to $30 per person for half-day tours and $40 to $60 per person for full-day tours.
• Concession fees include $500 to $600 per person for hot air balloon safaris and $100 to $200 per vehicle per day for private vehicle entry.

Please note that fees are subject to change, and some fees may require additional permits or licenses. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups.

Outstanding Safari Lodges and Hotels in Lake Manyara National Park—Lake Manyara National Park Accommodations

Some of the Lake Manyara accommodation options offering comfortable stays are:

1)   Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is located inside Manyara National Park, offering a luxurious and intimate retreat. The lodge features 10 stilted treehouse suites crafted from local timber and Makuti palm fronds, providing a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.

Guests can enjoy luxurious amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool. The lodge also offers various activities, such as game drive safaris, birdwatching, and forest walks, led by knowledgeable guides. Prices range from $500 to $1,500 per person per night.

This lodge is ideal for couples and honeymooners seeking a romantic getaway, and its membership in the &Beyond portfolio ensures high-level service and cuisine.

2)   Gibbs Farm

Located near Manyara National Park, it offers a luxurious and serene experience. The rustic retreat features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a pool, stunning views, and beautiful gardens.

The 20 cottages have classic safari decor, en-suite bathrooms, and private decks. Guests can enjoy home-cooked meals, spa treatments, guided drives, and relaxation by the pool.

Prices range from $500 to $1,500 per person per night, depending on the season and accommodation type, with access via a chartered flight to L. Manyara airstrip.

3)   Kirurumu Manyara Lodge

This tranquil retreat is on the Rift Valley rim and offers breathtaking views of Lake Manyara and Mt. Losimingori.

The lodge features 27 tented rooms, including a honeymoon suite and family cottages, each with a private balcony. Amenities include a restaurant, bar, and pool, while activities comprise guided walks, birdwatching, and game drives.

With warm hospitality and stunning views, Kirurumu is an ideal base for exploring Lake Manyara’s natural beauty, priced from $200 to $500 per person per night.

4)   Lake Manyara Serena Lodge

It is a luxurious retreat near Lake Manyara National Park, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

The lodge features 67 rooms with private balconies, en-suite bathrooms, and a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool.

Guests can enjoy guided animal drives, birdwatching, walking safaris, or relaxing at the lodge’s pool or spa. Prices start from $250 to $500 per person per night, depending on the season.

5)   Chem Chem Safari Lodge

Experience luxury and exclusivity at a premier lodge in the northern part of TZ, nestled between Tarangire and Manyara game parks.

The lodge features 8 stylish tents with en-suite bathrooms and private decks overlooking the Great Rift Escarpment. Enjoy animal drives, nature walks, birdwatching, romantic dining, and hot air balloon rides.

Accessible via Kuro airstrip, prices range from $800 to $2,000 per person per night, depending on the season. This wildlife-rich haven offers stunning views and unparalleled trip experiences.

6)   Plantation Lodge

This is a tranquil retreat situated near Karatu, on a historic coffee plantation with stunning views. The lodge features 16 comfortable rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a spa.

Surrounded by beautiful gardens and vast coffee plantations, it’s a stylish and private retreat. Ideally located near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Lake Manyara National Park, it offers guided walks, birdwatching, and tourist activities.

Prices range from $200 to $500 per person per night, depending on the season.

7)   Little Chem Chem

Little Chem Chem, known as the “sunrise camp,” is a luxurious and secluded lodge located in the Chem Chem Conservancy, near Tarangire and Manyara National Park.

With just 5 suites, each with a private deck, guests enjoy stunning views and exclusive experiences. Guided animal drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching excursions are offered, along with a pool, spa, and African-inspired cuisine.

Prices range from $500 to $1,000 per person per night, depending on the season. Its remote location offers unparalleled tranquility and wildlife viewing.

Alternatively, you can book some of these other lodging options, like Manyara Green Camp, Manyara Ranch, Mandhari Lodge, etc. for a comfortable rest.

Directions To Manyara Tanzania -How to Get to Tanzania for A Lake Manyara Trip

Located in the northern part of Tanzania, Manyara National Park is easily accessible by air or road. The park is part of the popular Northern safari circuit, with Arusha region as the gateway town.

1)      By Air

To get to Manyara National Park, fly into:

• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha, then take a domestic or charter flight to L. Manyara Airport (LKY)
• Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, then connect to Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for onward travel to L. Manyara.

2)      By Road

• Drive from Arusha (approximately 1.5 hours, 126 km/78 miles) to the Manyara Northern Gate, which is the main entrance near Mto wa Mbu town.
• Drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport (approximately 2-3 hours, depending on road conditions) to the park.
• Drive from Nairobi, Kenya (approximately 4-5 hours to Namanga Border Post, then continue to Arusha and L. Manyara.

3)      Getting Around

• Private transfers from the airport to your lodge or camp.
• Shuttle services are offered by some lodges and tour operators.
• Rental cars for self-drive safaris (4×4 tourist vehicles recommended).

4)      Important Tips

• Check visa requirements for TZ and apply in advance if necessary.
• Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations for travel to TZ.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and delays.

Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara National Park |Tree Climbing Lions

Open all year round, the best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park depends on your preferences, as each season offers a unique experience, i.e.,.

1)      Dry Season (June to October): Ideal for game viewing, with clear skies, cooler temperatures, and animals congregating around water sources.

2)      Wet Season (November to May): A serene and less crowded experience, with lush green landscapes and migratory birds. However, some roads may be challenging to navigate.

3)      Shoulder Season (April to June and November to December): Offers a balance of decent weather and smaller crowds, allowing you to enjoy scenic beauty and spot animals without peak season prices.

Regardless of the season, Manyara NP has good road access, making it easily accessible for visitors.

Manyara Threats and Conservation Efforts

Some of these are:

1)    Threats

• Habitat Loss and Fragmentation

Human settlement, agriculture, and infrastructure development have led to habitat destruction and fragmentation, isolating animal populations.

• Over-Tourism

Excessive tourism can disrupt animal behavior, damage diverse habitats, and lead to soil erosion.

• Poaching

1. Manyara is vulnerable to poaching, particularly for large herds of elephants, buffalo, and other large mammals.

• Human-Wildlife Conflict

As human settlements expand, conflicts between humans and wildlife increase, leading to crop damage, livestock depredation, and human injury or death.

• Climate Change

Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns affect the lake’s water levels, vegetation, and fauna populations.

2)    Conservation Efforts

Established in 1960, the park protects the lake’s ecosystem and provides diverse habitats for diverse wildlife through these efforts.

• Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) manages the park, implementing conservation strategies and providing community-based conservation programs.
• L. Manyara Conservation Project, supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), aims to conserve the lake’s ecosystem, reduce human-wildlife conflict, and promote sustainable livelihoods.
• Local communities are involved in conservation efforts, including ecotourism, wildlife monitoring, and habitat restoration.
• Scientists study the lake’s ecosystem, monitoring water quality, wildlife populations, and habitat health to make informed conservation decisions.

These conservation efforts aim to protect L. Manyara’s unique ecosystem, promote sustainable livelihoods, and ensure the long-term conservation of this vital natural habitat.

What To Wear for Safari in Tanzania Lake Manyara National Park?

When preparing for a Lake Manyara safari and wildlife adventure, it’s essential to pack clothing that is comfortable, practical, and suitable for outdoor activities.

• Neutral-colored clothing, such as khaki, beige, or green, is ideal as it blends with nature.
• Consider packing comfortable and durable long pants and shorts, as well as moisture-wicking long-sleeved shirts and blouses.
• Additional essentials include a lightweight and breathable jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings, a rain jacket or poncho, and warm layers like fleeces for chilly winter mornings.
• Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots or safari shoes with good grip and ankle support are also a must.
• Don’t forget to pack accessories like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent.

When choosing your attire, keep in mind a few important tips.

1)      Avoid bright colors, especially white, as they may attract unwanted attention from wild animals.

2)      Dress modestly and respect local culture.

3)      Pack warm layers for varying temperatures and weather conditions, and consider packing clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched.

4)      Finally, be sure to check with your tour operator for specific dress code requirements or recommendations.

All these can be used when heading to other game parks like Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Selous Game Reserve etc.

What to Pack for Lake Manyara Safari in Tanzania?

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable Lake Manyara safari experience, don’t forget to pack these personal essentials:

Remember to check with your TZ tour operator for specific packing recommendations and restrictions.

Don’t forget to leave some extra space in your luggage for souvenirs and other items you might acquire during your trip!

Lake Manyara National Park FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Is Lake Manyara Worth Visiting? Is It Worth Going to Lake Manyara?

2. Manyara is a unique and fascinating travel destination, offering a diverse landscape, abundant fauna, and a unique ecosystem. With climbing lions, over 400 bird species, and fewer crowds, it’s an ideal addition to a Northern Tanzania safari circuit, providing an unforgettable safari experience, hence worth a visit.

3. What Is Special About Manyara National Park? | What Is Special About Lake Manyara? 

Manyara NP is special due to its tree-climbing lions, diverse ecosystems, over 400 bird species, unique alkaline lake, ancient baobab trees, natural hot springs, and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into traditional Tanzanian culture and making it a truly unique travel destination to explore.

3. Are There Leopards in Lake Manyara?

Yes, leopards inhabit Manyara, but sightings are rare due to their elusive and nocturnal nature.

4. When Should I Go to Lake Manyara?

The best time to visit L. Manyara is during the dry season (June to October) for ideal game viewing, or the wet season (November to May) for birdwatching. Shoulder seasons (April to June and November to December) offer a balance of weather and crowds.

5. When Can You See Flamingos in Lake Manyara?

They can be seen in L. Manyara throughout the year, but the peak season is from June to October. The best time for spotting is August to September when water levels are low. Smaller numbers can be seen during the wet season, November to May.

6. How Many Lions Are in Manyara National Park?

Manyara NP is home to a thriving lion population, with approximately 0.4 species per square kilometer. Visitors have a good chance of spotting these iconic tree climbers, especially during animal drives in the dry season (June to October).

7. Is Lake Manyara Fresh or Salty?

8. Manyara is a saline lake, meaning it’s salty. Its water is alkaline, with a high pH level, which supports a unique ecosystem and a diverse array of aquatic life, including flamingos and other bird species.

9. How Big Is Lake Manyara?

10. Manyara is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) long and 16 kilometers (10 miles) wide, covering an area of around 230 square kilometers (89 square miles). However, its size can vary significantly depending on the season and rainfall.

Visit Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park for an unforgettable trip experience. Discover majestic tree-climbing lions, vibrant flamingos, and diverse wildlife amidst lush forests, grasslands, and an alkaline lake. A treasure trove of natural wonders, Lake Manyara is a must-visit African wilderness destination.