Measuring 330km² in size, Lake Manyara National Park is home to cliffs, verdant acacia woodlands, open savannahs, and the alkaline, underground spring-fed waters of Tanzanian Lake Manyara. The park’s diverse landscape is home to an array of wildlife from land-dwelling mammals to over 400 bird species flitting across the escarpment and between the lakeshore and trees.

Flamingos wade through the lake’s waters alongside pods of hippos, whose movements create ripples that lead to the shoreline. Giraffes lope across the grassland amid herds of zebra whose ears twitch nervously, ready to elude any leopards hiding in the acacia woodlands. Other animals to be spotted in the park include lions, elephants, buffalo, and migrating wildebeest.

The dry months provide visitors with excellent game-viewing opportunities while the wet winter months attract an abundance of birdlife and rushing waterfalls. Visitors can find accommodation in the park at various luxury camps and lodges, as well as a public campsite.

Located a short 90-minute drive from Arusha and its airport, Lake Manyara is easy to reach and a convenient add-on to visitors exploring the surrounding Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park.

Highlights of the park

• Lake Manyara National Park is home to over 400 bird species and a number of large game and predators
• The diverse landscape offers visitors stunning views of the escarpment and lake surroundings
• Guests can stay in the park or in the nearby town Mto wa Mbu
• Interesting activities are available year-round—game drives and birdwatching
• Fairly close to Arusha and the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area