Lake Manyara National Park

A Little Slice of Paradise

Imagine a place where the land meets water in the most breathtaking way, where wildlife thrives against a backdrop of towering cliffs and shimmering lakes. Lake Manyara National Park, tucked beneath the steep slopes of the Great Rift Valley in northern Tanzania, may be small compared to some of its famous neighbors, but it’s bursting with charm and surprises.

From its lush forests to its open plains and the glimmering expanse of Lake Manyara, this park feels like a pocket of magic—a place where every corner holds something unexpected and beautiful.

A Park Like No Other
Where the Rift Meets the Water
The park’s setting is nothing short of spectacular. As you enter, you’re greeted by a dense, green forest with towering fig and mahogany trees—a stark contrast to the golden savannas you might expect from a safari. Beyond the forest, the landscape opens up, leading to the sparkling waters of Lake Manyara, which stretches as far as the eye can see. With the Great Rift Valley escarpment rising dramatically in the background, it’s a scene that feels almost too perfect to be real.

The Magic of the Lake
Lake Manyara is the heart of the park. This shallow, alkaline lake is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. When the flamingos arrive, the shoreline transforms into a sea of pink, their elegant forms reflected in the water. It’s a moment of pure serenity that you’ll want to capture forever.

What You’ll See
For a smaller park, Lake Manyara packs a punch when it comes to wildlife.

Tree-Climbing Lions: One of Manyara’s claims to fame is its lions, which are often spotted lounging in acacia trees—something you rarely see elsewhere. There’s nothing quite like spotting a lion draped over a branch, its tail lazily flicking in the sun.
Elephants: Large herds of elephants roam through the park, their graceful movements a reminder of how connected they are to this land.
Giraffes and Zebras: These classic safari animals are a common sight, grazing in the open plains with the dramatic Rift Valley cliffs behind them.
Hippos: Near the park’s wetlands, you’ll find hippos lounging in the water, occasionally surfacing with a splash.
Primates: The forest is alive with monkeys—playful vervets, olive baboons, and even the occasional blue monkey darting through the trees.
A Birdwatcher’s Dream
If you’re a bird lover, Manyara is pure heaven. With over 400 bird species, you’re guaranteed to see something spectacular. From pink flamingos lining the lake to majestic birds of prey like the fish eagle, every glance toward the water or sky reveals a new wonder.

Things to Do
Game Drives
Hop into a safari vehicle and explore the park’s varied landscapes. Each drive feels like an adventure, with surprises waiting around every corner—an elephant crossing the road, a giraffe silhouetted against the cliffs, or a lion snoozing in a tree.

Birdwatching
Even if you’re not an avid birdwatcher, the sheer variety of birds in Manyara will blow you away. Bring a pair of binoculars and let yourself get lost in the beauty of their movements and calls.

Night Game Drives
Manyara is one of the few places in Tanzania where you can explore after dark. On a night safari, you’ll see the park in a whole new light—bush babies leaping between branches, nocturnal predators on the prowl, and the glittering eyes of animals reflected in the glow of your spotlight.

When to Go
Dry Season (June to October): This is the best time to spot large mammals and enjoy clear skies.
Wet Season (November to May): The park transforms into a lush paradise, and the birdlife, especially flamingos, is at its peak.
Why You’ll Love It
Lake Manyara National Park has a way of enchanting its visitors. It’s not as vast as the Serengeti or as dramatic as Ngorongoro, but that’s what makes it special. It feels personal and intimate, like a place where you can truly connect with nature.

Picture yourself sitting by the lakeshore, watching flamingos wade through the water as the sun sets behind the Rift Valley cliffs. Or imagine the quiet thrill of spotting a lion resting in a tree or hearing the distant call of an elephant as you explore the forest.