Lake Manyara National Park packs remarkable variety into a compact area on Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Set beneath the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment, it is said to contain up to eleven ecosystems – from the alkaline soda lake and its flamingos to groundwater forest, open plains and rocky slopes – famous for its tree-climbing lions and large elephant herds.

Game drives

Game drives are the main activity, taking you through lush forest and along the lakeshore in search of elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, baboon, blue monkey and the park’s celebrated tree-climbing lions.

Treetop canopy walk

A highlight of Manyara is its treetop canopy walkway, a suspended walk high through the forest canopy offering a bird’s-eye view of the park and its wildlife.

Birding

With over 400 recorded species, Manyara is a superb birding destination. The soda lake draws flamingos, pelicans and countless waterbirds, while the forest hosts hornbills, turacos and raptors.

Night drives, canoeing and hot springs

Depending on conditions, you can enjoy night game drives, canoeing on the lake when water levels allow, and a visit to the Maji Moto hot springs.

Plan your Manyara safari

Lake Manyara pairs perfectly with the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Start planning your Tanzania safari.