Home » Lake Manyara National Park
330 km²
954-2,055 m
June to September
April and May
Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley in northern Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is a captivating destination renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems. Situated between the towering walls of the Rift Valley escarpment and the sparkling waters of Lake Manyara, the park offers a stunning tapestry of landscapes and wildlife encounters.
Lake Manyara National Park is easily accessible, just a short drive from the bustling town of Arusha. This makes it ideal for travellers seeking a day trip or a faster safari experience without venturing too far from urban comforts.
The park’s most iconic feature is Lake Manyara, a shallow alkaline lake stretching along its western border. The lake’s glistening waters attract many bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Flamingos, pelicans, herons, and storks are among the numerous avian residents that call the lake home.
Surrounding the lake is a mosaic of habitats, including dense forests, grassy plains, and woodland areas. The groundwater forest, in particular, is a notable highlight, with its ancient mahogany and fig trees providing shade and shelter for various wildlife.
Exploring Lake Manyara National Park with experienced guides from Timon Safaris provides valuable insights into the behaviours and habitats of the wildlife. Their expertise enhances the safari experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the intricate balance of nature within the park.
Lake Manyara National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife population, which thrives within its varied habitats. While the park is not known for sizeable significant game populations, it offers a unique and intimate safari experience.
The park has many mammals, including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and zebras. Visitors may also spot impalas, waterbucks, and bushbucks as they graze in the open grasslands. Monkeys like baboons and vervet monkeys can be seen swinging through the treetops, adding a playful element to the park’s wildlife encounters.
Lake Manyara National Park is also famous for its tree-climbing lions. These skilled predators have developed the remarkable habit of lounging in the branches of acacia trees, providing a fascinating spectacle for visitors. Spotting these majestic felines resting on sturdy branches is a truly unforgettable experience.
The park’s diverse habitats support an impressive bird population. Apart from the flamingos that grace the lake, Lake Manyara is home to over 400 bird species. From colourful bee-eaters and kingfishers to majestic eagles and vultures, the park offers endless opportunities for birdwatching enthusiasts to spot and identify various avian species.
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