Things to Do in Lake Manyara National Park

Things to Do in Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park, nestled between Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley, is a stunning destination featuring diverse habitats, including evergreen forests, woodlands, wetlands and expansive grasslands. The park is dominated by the shallow, alkaline Lake Manyara, situated at an altitude of 960 meters within a Rift Valley depression. Whether you’re looking to capture wildlife documentaries or simply enjoy breathtaking scenery, a safari in Lake Manyara offers an unforgettable experience.

Top Wildlife Attractions in Lake Manyara

Spotting Mammals

Lake Manyara is home to a wide variety of mammals, including both resident species and migratory animals from nearby Tarangire National Park. You might spot:

• Wildebeests, Zebras, Thomson’s gazelle and Grant’s gazelle migrating through the park.
• Predators such as lions, leopards, black-backed jackals and spotted hyenas.
• Rarely seen species like cheetahs and the African golden cat.
• Other notable mammals include elephants, baboons, hippopotamuses, giraffes and impalas.

Unique Fish Species

Lake Manyara is home to the endangered Oreochromis amphimelas, a species of fish from the cichlid family that is endemic to Tanzania and can only be found in Lake Manyara and nearby basins.

Birdwatching Paradise

With over 390 bird species, Lake Manyara National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. During the wet season, you can witness thousands of flamingos and various other waterbirds flocking to the edges of the lake.

Butterfly Species

For nature lovers and filmmakers, the park is also famous for its diversity of butterflies, with over 180 species recorded, making it an ideal location for capturing these delicate creatures on film.

Accommodation Options Near Lake Manyara

There are a variety of lodging options in and around the park, ranging from budget to luxury. Some popular choices include:

• Lake Manyara Tortilis Camp (Luxury)
• andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge (Luxury)
• Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge (Mid-range)
• Lake Manyara Kilimanjaro Lodge (Mid-range)
• Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge (Budget)

Choose your accommodation based on your preferences and budget for a comfortable stay during your safari.

How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park

• By Road: The park is located just 126 km (78 miles) southwest of Arusha, making it a convenient 1.5-hour drive from the city.
• By Air: You can also take a scheduled flight to Lake Manyara Airport, with daily flights available.

Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara for Wildlife Viewing

Lake Manyara National Park is a year-round destination but the best time to visit is during the dry season from June to October and December to February. These months offer clearer skies and better wildlife viewing opportunities. Avoid the rainy season (March to May and November) when some areas may be difficult to access.

Tanzania Safari Travel Requirements

Tourists visiting Tanzania will need to obtain a tourist visa, which can be acquired before arrival or on arrival at any entry point for USD 100. Be prepared to show proof of yellow fever vaccination and a COVID-19-free certificate if you’re traveling from affected countries. For the latest entry requirements, we recommend contacting the nearest Tanzanian embassy or checking with us for up-to-date travel information.

Hiring a Safari Vehicle in Tanzania

Trek Africa Gorillas offers transportation options tailored to your needs, whether you’re on a budget or seeking comfort. We recommend:

• 4×4 Land Cruisers at USD 200-250 per day with a driver/fixer.
• 4×4 Safari Vans at USD 200 per day with a driver.

To help us estimate costs for fuel, we’ll need details of your itinerary, including mileage and distances.

Why Travel with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is committed to providing exceptional safaris in Tanzania and other top African destinations. With our high ratings on TripAdvisor, we specialize in eco-friendly, unforgettable safari experiences that preserve biodiversity and uplift local communities.

Whether you’re interested in gorilla trekking, Big 5 safaris, mountain hiking or cultural encounters, we ensure your safari adventure is tailored to your interests and expectations. Contact us to plan your ultimate Tanzania wildlife safari and experience the best of Africa.