THE ULTIMATE GUIDE FOR VISITING LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK
Lake Manyara National Park / Image: @etvoilaraissa
While it may not always get the recognition and acclaim of neighboring safari hotspots like Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park is not to be missed.
Among the most incredible destinations for wildlife spotting in Tanzania, this park is especially celebrated for its tree-climbing lions, elephant herds and birdwatching opportunities.
Despite its relatively small size, Lake Manyara National Park is one of the best safari parks in Tanzania. Everywhere you look, you'll see diverse landscapes, grassy plains, lush forests, acacia woodlands existing side by side as well as the incredible lake.
As a result, the types of species found in the park can vary significantly, as pink flamingoes flock to the shores of the lake while the dense woods are home to Africa's largest concentration of baboons.
If you've your heart set on a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience, set aside some time to visit Lake Manyara National Park and explore one of the oldest nature reserves in the country.
Keep reading to find all the must-know details, including how to get there and the best things to see and do.
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Lake Manyara National Park / Image: @spoelhofmedia
WITHIN THIS GUIDE
The History of Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is one of Tanzania's oldest national parks, and it comes with a rich history worth exploring. In this brief overview, we'll give you a glimpse of the history behind Lake Manyara National Park.
You may wonder where the name ‘Lake Manyara’ comes from and it originates from the word ‘Emanyara’ from the Masai people. An ‘Emanyara’ is a plant that is mainly used for building houses, fences and enclosures. The reason why they named it ‘Lake Manyara’ is because the shape of the national park mirrors that of a protective fence surrounding a home enclosure.
Before Lake Manyara was secured as a National Park to conserve its healthy ecosystem in 1960, the park was used as hunting grounds from 1920 onwards. In 1974, the park was expanded to cover more than 5 square kilometers in the southern area and in 1981 UNESCO added Lake Manyara to its greater Biosphere Reserve programme.
What you see today is a beautiful national park that thrives in healthy populations of wild animals, including the famous tree-climbing lions that are unique to Lake Manyara, elephants, hippos, wildebeest, leopards, zebras, giraffe, flamingo and it is proudly home to four out of the Big Five animals. The only animal that doesn't exist here is the Rhino.
Where Is Lake Manyara National Park?
Lake Manyara National Park lies between Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley in northern Tanzania. It sits just 126 km from Arusha, a city that serves as a gateway to many of the country's finest safari destinations and is reachable from there in a little over 90 minutes.
Lets go into detail: Lake Manyara is situated in a wonderfully fitting hub along the renowned Northern Circuit route that entices many travelers to visit because of its ideal location. To the east of Lake Manyara lies the famous city known for its coffee plantations - Arusha, while to the southeast you’ll find the humble Tarangire National Park. To its west is the tranquil Lake Eyasi, famous for its biodiversity, and to its north is the incredible Ngorongoro Crater, known to be the 7th wonder of the world. As you can see, Lake Manyara is in a prime location that achieves substantial tourist traffic and admiration. It is one of the first stops on the Northern Circuit route that people want to visit.
Because of its inclusion within the legendary Northern Circuit route, Lake Manyara National Park is often paired with visits to the Serengeti, Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Crater as part of a wider safari around Tanzania.
Here are the distances from Lake Manyara National Park to its neighboring National Parks:
Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park is 200 km
Lake Manyara to Ngorongoro Crater is 75 km
Lake Manyara to Tarangire National Park is 65 km
Lake Manyara to Lake Eyasi National Park is 80 km
Lake Manyara National Park / Google Maps
How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park
Like most other spots on the northern Tanzania safari circuit, Lake Manyara National Park is best accessed from Arusha. In the majority of cases, it's easiest to start your trip by flying to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
From here, you can reach Arusha in approximately one hour by car, with a further 90-minute drive needed to get to Lake Manyara National Park. This route is definitely the most popular choice, but there are a few other options you can consider as well.
To cut down on travel time over land, it's possible to take a domestic flight to Arusha Airport from either Kilimanjaro International Airport or Jomo Kenyatta Airport in Kenya.
Furthermore, some safari packages will include an additional flight to Lake Manyara Airport, which is usually limited to chartered planes.
Lake Manyara National Park Fees
Lake Manyara National Park fees are dependent on age and residential status. Let's dive in and explain what you need to know…..
Here are the age group catagories for pricing:
Adults - Ages 16 and above
Children - Ages 5 to 15 years
Minors - Under 5 years
There are three different pricing tiers dependent on your resident status. Here are the fees for a one-time entry:
Foreign non-resident adults - $59 per person per day
While children pay - $18 per person per day
Foreign adult residents - $30 per person per day
While children pay - $9 per person per day
East African Community Citizen Adults - $5 approximately per person per day
While children pay - $1 approximately per person per day
Pricing for people staying overnight in Lake Manyara National Park. These fees are additional to the entry fees above:
Foreign non-resident adults - $47.20 per person per night
While children pay - $18 per person per night
Foreign adult residents - $40 per person per night
While children pay - $12 per person per night
East African Community Citizen Adults - $13 approximately per person per night
While children pay - $5 approximately per person per night
Helpful advice to remember:
Entrance fees are valid for up to 24 hours if you are staying overnight in the park
Day time entry fees are valid per entry
The park is open from 6am to 6pm
Lake Manyara allows night time game drives at an extra cost
Entry fees cannot be paid with cash. Only with Visa or Mastercard.
An animal skull sits atop of a rock in Lake Manyara National Tanzania. The views are simply breathtaking and worth every penny when visiting.
When is the best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park?
Thinking about a trip to Lake Manyara? It's a good idea to keep its changing weather in mind before you make any plans. These conditions will affect many attributes of your trip which will decipher what month or season is most fitting for you. From the number of tourists to wildlife observations - the Lake Manyara National Park weather can be diverse and will make or break your safari experience.
Lets dive into the different seasons and tell you more about each one, so you can see what one is the best season for you.
Dry Season (From June to October): The weather in Lake Manyara during the dry season is typically warm and sunny, with slight to no humidity which makes for a very comfortable and enjoyable safari experience. Temperatures during the day can range from 25°C to 32°C or 77F - 90F. During these months you can bank on little rainfall which makes wildlife observations relatively easy, as animals tend to be spotted with ease since vegetation is thin and there are less hiding spots. The other benefit about the dry season is there are less mosquitos making it harder to contract Maleria.
Wet Season (From November to May): The wet season brings two major rainy seasons during the months of November to May. ‘The Short Rains’ and ‘The Long Rains’. The short rains are from November to December - during this time, you can expect rainfall to be in the afternoons. The short rains tend to be on the heavier side in November than in December, when they taper off. These rains usually break in January and February but this is unpredictable. Then the long rains, which can also produce tropical downpours, happen from March to May, with April and May being the rainiest months. During this period, you can predict rainfall to happen every day. The wet season has its benefits as safaris tend to be cheaper as well as bird watching is optimal during these months. Calving season also happens in the early part of the year too.
Lake Manyara National Park Animals
The Lake Manyara National Park animals will not disappoint as there are so many wonderful wild species to observe and enjoy as well as birdlife to spot in the trees and blue skies above. Lake Manyara is home to a bounty of species, and whilst most people concentrate on the Big Four (Lake Manyara only has four of the big five animals - Rhinos don't exist here unfortunately), there are countless of other amazing and intriguing species to spot here.
From mammals to birds and all sorts of animals you might not even consider, Lake Manyara’s animals are some of the most captivating and unique creatures you will get to meet.
Some of the animals you will witness are sauntering elephants, peaceful giraffes, lazy hippos, raging buffalos, friendly zebras, elusive leopards as well as the famous tree-climbing lions which only exist in Lake Manyara. Other fascinating mammals include impalas, warthogs, bushbucks, wildebeest and bushbucks.
Don’t keep your eyes firmly on the ground as there are beautiful wild species all around you, including the skies. Bird watching has become a popular hobby for many and throughout this park, you will be able to spot the most magnificent and vibrant feathered friends. Pink Flamingos are the main bird that travelers flock to see, however if you are patient enough, you might get to see the colorful superb starling, narina trogon, red and yellow barbet, spectacled weaver and the little bee eater.
Be sure to scour the park for other fabulous animals such as mongooses, hyenas, civets, galagos and even squirrels - which all call Lake Manyara home, making this park a haven for wild animals.
The humble warthog is one of the intruiging wild animal species you will get to see in Lake Manyara National Park. There is so much more to see than the Big Four.
The Tree Climbing Lions in Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is most famous for its lions, especially because of their unique tree climbing abilities.
Seeing these exceptional creatures make their way up through the thick acacia trees is a remarkable experience and one that's exclusive to just a handful of locations on the planet. One such place is Lake Manyara National Park.
During your game drives through the savannas and woodlands of the park, you'll be in with a chance to see these unusual lions in action.
It's pretty intriguing that experts still haven't figured out why these tree-climbing cats, like lions, act the way they do.
Many speculate that the lions perch themselves among the treetops to take shelter from the sun. However, others suggest that the branches make excellent vantage points for the lions to watch their prey while also keeping them far from insects that irritate them on the ground.
No matter what the reason, admiring the lions lounging along the acacia trees is astounding and one of the experiences that sets Lake Manyara National Park apart from many other safari destinations.
You can learn more about the tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara on our guide to lions in Tanzania.
Lake Manyara National Park / Image: @glenm
Bird Watching in Lake Manyara National Park
While the lions are the park's most famous dwellers, Lake Manyara is a great place to spot some unique and fascinating bird species. Much like the other animals that reside here, the varied landscapes have made Lake Manyara National Park a hub for a wide range of feathered creatures.
The lake itself is among the best bird-spotting pockets of the park, and it's where you'll often find the elegant pink flamingos that the area has become synonymous with.
Throughout your visit, you may also encounter some of the 400 other bird species in different parts of the park.
Along with flamingos - you can find pelicans, herons, hornbills, storks, and kingfishers on the lake. Crowned eagles, African hawk eagles, white-winged widowbirds and yellow-billed kites also call Lake Manyara National Park home.
If you're a keen birdwatcher or are planning on visiting the park specifically for the winged inhabitants, it's worth keeping in mind that Lake Manyara is seasonal.
This means that many species are primarily present during the wet season and are not commonly found here during the drier months of the year. When the lack of rainfall causes the water levels to drop, the flamingos tend to move north to Lake Natron.
Lake Manyara National Park / Image: @a_wonkam
When to see the Falmingoes in Lake Manyara?
The pink flamingoes of Lake Manyara are one of the main reasons why thousands of tourists make sure they visit Lake Manyara National Park. The bird species you get to see here are remarkable which is majorly due to the fact that Lake Manyara boasts a huge lake within its park. This phenomenal water source attracts an array of water birds, including the renowned pink flamingo.
These fabulous pink birds can be found in Lake Manyara from November to April every year. Migratory bird species flock to the lake during wet season. Throughout these months that you can witness millions of elegant pink flamingoes gracefully populate the waters and shores of the lake.
What attracts flamingos to Lake Manyara in particular is its shallow shores of the lake, alkaline waters where they can feed off the algae that grows here, its bounty of food and its ideal spot for breeding.
If you visit during these months, you will be stunned by the breathtaking color pink that will greet you at the lake. It's an amazing sight that really makes for captivating observations.
A huw of pink will greet you at Lake Manyara during the months of November to April. If you visit during these months you are in for a treat! / Image: @j_zhao
Things to Do in Lake Manyara National Park
For such a compact area (if you're wondering how big Lake Manyara National Park is, it's just 325 square km, compared to the Serengeti's area of 14,763 square km!), there's an array of fabulous things to see and do.
Game Drives
These animal-spotting excursions are essential components of any safari experience and are among the top Lake Manyara National Park activities. Early morning, mid-afternoon and nighttime game drives all offer unique animal encounters.
The best chances of catching a glimpse of the majestic wildlife are during the early hours while the weather at Lake Manyara National Park is a little cooler.
However, the evening drives allow you to spot some nocturnal creatures. Lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes and antelopes are just some of the animals you may see along the way.
Boat Rides
Admire the park's birds from an unbeatable perspective with a boat or canoe ride through Lake Manyara. Not only can you see flamingos, pelicans and herons but you might also find some hippos bathing or unwinding in the water.
The lake's landscapes are even more awe-inspiring and you'll enjoy views of the Rift Valley escarpment, vast plains and forested areas.
Guided Walks
With your expert guide or ranger by your side, you'll venture into Lake Manyara National Park on foot and soak up the superb scenery while keeping an eye out for wildlife.
The animals you might find will depend on which route your guide chooses, but monkeys and birds are some of the most commonly sighted creatures.
The Treetop Walkway is a popular feature on most safari itineraries and is a 370-meter-long canopy walk through at the tops of the trees. Here, you'll get a birds eye view of the animals below and the birds at eye level.
Cultural Experiences
A safari in Lake Manyara National Park combines nature and culture and there's no better way to delve into the locals' traditions and customs than to visit the nearby Maasai village.
The Maasai tribe has lived in Tanzania for centuries and continues to live a life without much influence from the modern world. Today, they welcome visitors into their homes, showcasing their intricate handicrafts, traditional dances and unique way of life.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching is becoming more and more popular on safaris, especially in places like Tanzania where you can spot the most magnificent exotic breeds. There are around 400 Lake Manyara birds to observe - making this location one of the best regions for birders.
Some of the most popular Lake Manyara birds to see are the great white pelican, silvery-cheeked hornbill, little bee-eater, cape teal, black heron, martial eagle, lesser flamingo and more.
Canoo Lake Manyara
Canoeing is one of the most exciting Lake Manyara activities you can opt to do when in the park. Lake Manyara is just over 125 square miles large and with such a vast size, canoeing the lake can be extremely exhilarating and exciting.
Canoeing is all about getting out on the water and checking out wildlife, and it's such an amazing experience. Paddling along the lake will allow you to soak up the region in unique transport, whilst witnessing hippos, waterbirds as well as any wildlife that choose to visit the lake.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is one of the most unique Lake Manyara activities you can do.
Horseback safaris, otherwise known as horseback riding excursions are an absolutely magnificent and breathtaking way to observe the animals and landscapes.
This original and very authentic way to journey through the park will allow you many benefits from the scenic views of the incredible region, the stunning lake, exotic wildlife sightings and it will also grant you access to places where safari vehicles cannot drive.
Canopy Tree Walk
Walk amongst the tree tops on this incredible canopy tree walk in Lake Manyara’s ancient woodlands. When it comes to activities at Lake Manyara National Park, this one definitely stands out as a favorite, drawing in tons of visitors every year.
The canopy walk is a secure suspension bridge with netting on either side that allows you to feel comfortable meandering at 59 feet high amongst the tops of the trees.
Enjoy a birds eye view of the park beneath you and the forests surrounding you, spotting monkeys, exotic birds, butterflies, peaceful elephants and buffalos below whilst listening to bird song that fills your senses. It's a wonderful place to be!
Nighttime game drives
Nighttime game drives are pretty rare in most national parks in Tanzania, however Lake Manyara does allow them, and they are an incredible experience if you get to participate in one. Observing animals such as lions, leopards, hippos, hyenas and porcupines in a nocturnal environment is a unique opportunity, especially as these animals are more active during the night.
Hippos are one animal that is extremely active at night as they tend to spend much of their time out of water due to the absence of the sun, which will give you a good chance of seeing them in their natural habitat. Lions, too, are nocturnal hunters and tend to do most of their hunting during the night which can be particularly breathtaking to encounter if you are lucky enough to witness it.
Lake Manyara National Park / Image: @denisi_z
Rules of Lake Manyara National Park
Believe it or not, there are quite a few rules that Lake Manyara National Park has made in order to conserve their park as much as possible. Rightly so, Lake Manyara National Park is home to an impressive number of wild animals as well as bird species so it goes without saying, that keeping their home as pristine and undisturbed as possible is extremely important to maintain their environment.
Here are the rules of the park that need to be followed in order to enjoy Lake Manyara as much as possible:
The park's opening time is from 6am to 6pm. Those that have paid to experience a night time game drive need to be explicitly authorized to do so.
The speed limit of driving within the park is 50km per hour.
Animals always have right of way and it is compulsory to stop and wait for them to cross the roads or dirt tracks should they wish to.
Do not drive off the roads or designated tracks to avoid being penalized.
Cutting vegetation or plants, taking eggs, horns, animal parts or other is not allowed whatsoever.
Keep picnicking and camping to the assigned areas only.
Camp fires should be removed or put out correctly.
Smoking is not permitted within the park.
Respect the animals and do not make loud noises of any kind, this includes clapping, imitating animal sounds, shouting or throwing objects to get their attention or play loud music or radio. These noises might make an animal feel aggressive or anxious.
200 meters has to be kept between you and the animals at all times in order to stay as safe as possible.
Refrain from asking your driver to drive too close to the animals as it can make animals like lions, cheetahs and elephants to be unpredictable in close proximity.
It is not allowed to leave your vehicle at any time unless you are back at your campsite or picnic area.
Littering is not allowed in the park whatsoever. Your litter can choke or poison the animals and birds so its essential to carry all your rubbish with you to your camp or lodge and dispose of it there.
Feeding the animals within the park is prohibited.
A stationary safari vehicle watching a lion meander through the grass. Lake Manyara advises a 200 meter distance between you and the animals at all times / Image: @traveleroohlala
Frequently Asked Questions
When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Lake Manyara National Park?
The best time for a Lake Manyara National Park safari will depend on your preferences.
The most popular time to visit is during the dry season, from June to October. At this time, temperatures are pleasant and wildlife spotting opportunities are abundant.
However, the wet season which runs from November to May is generally a more inexpensive time to visit and the landscapes are particularly vibrant due to frequent rainfall.
Can You Stay in Lake Manyara National Park?
There are numerous hotels in Lake Manyara National Park to choose from - along with tented camps, lodges and guesthouses. As a result, there are plenty of accommodation options for all budgets and tastes.
It's important to note that there are additional concession fees that you must pay if you choose to stay in accommodation in Lake Manyara National Park.
Are There Entry Fees Into Lake Manyara National Park?
The Lake Manyara National Park entrance fee is $59 for non-resident adults and $18 for non-resident children. This is valid for 24 hours but only permits one entry, so you'll need to pay the fee again if you leave and re-enter the park.
If you plan to stay overnight, you'll need to pay an additional $47.20 for non-resident adults and $12 for non-resident children per night.
Find out more details about the entry fees on Lake Manyara National Park's website.
A Final Note on Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is one of northern Tanzania's most exciting destinations, making it an extraordinary addition to any safari itinerary. Much less visited than many of the nearby parks, this is the perfect location for a more authentic and intimate safari.
Start planning your trip to Tanzania today with BornWild. Check out our African lion safari, which stops at Lake Manyara National Park to see the Tree Climbing Lions, Ngorongoro Crater, and much more.
Lake Manyara National Park / Image: @etvoilaraissa
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