Lake Manyara National Park is a relatively small but diverse park, known for its huge soda lake that covers two-thirds of its surface and is home to thousands of flamingo and 500 other bird species.

Located at the foot of the Great Rift Valley’s western escarpment, the park’s varied habitat attracts a variety of animals, including one of Tanzania’s largest concentrations of elephants, as well as giraffe, buffalo, monkeys, zebra, gazelle and wildebeest, to name just a few. Tanzania’s famous tree-climbing lions are also present in Lake Manyara, although they remain a pretty rare sight in this park.

Even though it is often overlooked by the classic safari itineraries, Lake Manyara National Park is definitiely worth a visit. The park has no marked particularity, but its landscapes, soda lake and huge monkey population make it very different from the other more well-known nothern Tanzanian parks. 

Upon entering the park, you will be greeted by a forest of ancient mahogany, as well as giant fig and kapok trees. It is common to see crystal clear water rising directly from the ground in this area, attracting many monkeys such as baboons and blue monkeys. 

The park is bordered on one side by the rocky escarpment of the rift valley and on the other by Lake Manyara which occupies two-thirds of the park. Although small in size, the park offers a wide variety of scenery.

On a lucky day, you may find a few of Tanzania’s famous tree-climbing lions in the sparser bush and forest areas where they tend to seek refuge. Additionally, herds of herbivores congregate on the alluvial plain around the lake and at the southern end of the park where chemically enhanced hot springs provide a beautiful palette of colours.

Most of the commonly seen animals of northern Tanzania are present in Lake Manyara National Park, including giraffe, elephant, gazelle and buffalo, as well as flamingo and other water bird species.

Best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park can be visited all year round, with something special to see in every season. If you’d like to see the park’s abundant big game, visit during the dry season from June to October when wildlife viewing is at its best. 

If you’d like to see the park’s birdlife and pink flamingos, visit between November and April when migrant species arrive and resident birds display their colourful breeding plumage. The lake is also at its prime during this season, with lush green foliage dotted with bright pink flamingos.

Top highlights

• Relatively large elephant herds
• Abundant wildlife concentrated in a small park
• Excellent birdwatching
• Unique natural scenery

Tour Duration

• Full-day :  6:30 a.m. pick-up at your hotel in Moshi or 8:30 a.m. in Arusha / 6:30 p.m. drop-off at your hotel in Arusha or 8:30 p.m. if you are staying in Moshi

Included in package

• Professional English speaking driver/guide
• Pick-up / drop-off at your hotel in Moshi or Arusha
• Admission to Lake Manyara National Park
• National Park fees & taxes
• Picnic lunch
• Bottled water
• A 4X4 Land Cruiser with open top for optimal game viewing

Not included in package

• Flight tickets
• Visa fees
• Travel / medical insurance
• Personal expenses (telephone, soft drinks, juice or alcoholic beverages, any other items of a personal nature)
• Meals not listed
• Tip for your safari guide (suggested amount: $25)