Lake Manyara National Park
Discover what makes this destination special, when to visit and what to expect on the ground.
Know the place
before you go.
Lake Manyara National Park offers a distinct combination of landscape, wildlife, culture and travel character. Ndetei Safaris can build it into a private safari, trekking journey, cultural experience or beach extension depending on your plans.
Let the season
shape the trip.
June–October offers generally drier conditions and strong wildlife viewing. Green-season visits can be rewarding for birdlife and scenery, although rainfall can affect road conditions.
Seasonality affects wildlife concentration, migration position, mountain weather, road conditions and beach activities. We recommend confirming your dates and preferred experiences before finalising the route.
Come for the
landscape.
Tree-climbing lions in suitable areas, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, baboons, blue monkeys, flamingos and more than 400 bird species.
A destination with
a story.
Lake Manyara National Park was established in 1960 and the lake and surrounding ecosystems were later recognised as part of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere programme. The park protects a compact landscape where the Rift Valley escarpment, groundwater forest, alkaline lake and open woodland meet. Its reputation for tree-climbing lions and exceptional birdlife makes it a distinctive stop on the Northern Circuit.
Things to do
here.
Explore activities that match the character of this destination. Availability depends on season, park or marine rules, weather, permits and local operating conditions.
Game drives
Explore the park’s groundwater forest, woodland, open plains and lakeshore habitats by safari vehicle.
Bird watching
Enjoy exceptional birding around the lake and forest habitats, with opportunities for both resident and migratory species.
Canopy walkway
Walk above the forest canopy on the designated canopy walkway where operating conditions and availability permit.
Walking experiences where permitted
Join an approved guided walking activity where current park rules, location and operator arrangements allow.
Photography
Photograph forest, escarpment, lake landscapes, wildlife and birdlife in a compact but visually diverse park.
Night drives/canoeing where permitted and arranged
Ask about night drives or canoeing only where these activities are officially permitted, available and arranged in advance.
Tree-climbing lion viewing
Look for Lake Manyara’s famous tree-climbing lions when conditions and wildlife behaviour provide an opportunity.
Rift Valley & lakeshore viewpoints
Enjoy views across the alkaline lake and Great Rift Valley escarpment, with opportunities for scenic photography.
Build this place
into your journey.
Tell us your dates, interests and preferred pace. We can combine Lake Manyara National Park with other destinations in Tanzania to create a coherent route rather than a one-size-fits-all package.
Let's plan your
Tanzania story.
Share your dates and interests and Ndetei Safaris will recommend the right route, accommodation and activities.
Start Planning