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Tanzania

Lake Manyara National Park

Flamingos, forest, and famous tree-climbing lions—Lake Manyara is a park of surprises and contrasts.

Welcome to Tanzania’s Scenic Gem

Lake Manyara National Park may be one of the smaller parks in northern Tanzania, but it punches well above its weight in biodiversity and beauty. Nestled between the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the alkaline lake itself, this compact reserve offers lush groundwater forests, open plains, and wetlands full of birds. It’s a perfect soft landing for your safari or a refreshing change of pace between bigger parks.

Featured Tours in Lake Manyara

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers one of the most varied and rewarding safari experiences in Uganda. From wildlife-packed game drives to tranquil boat cruises and volcanic crater views, it’s a destination that truly has it all.

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Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach experience

Experience Tanzania’s mesmerising beauty in 17 days on our Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar travel adventure! From discovering the wildlife on an African safari to basking on the tropical beaches of Zanzibar : Get the most out of your time in Tanzania.

This private luxury safari offers you the opportunity to experience Tanzania at your own pace. Travel to the famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater with your experienced English-speaking guide, and enjoy the comfort and safety of your own private safari vehicle. Let majestic elephants and tropical birds in the Tarangire National Park inspire you, and end a perfect Tanzania itinerary by soaking up the sun on the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar.

Optional Activities:

  • Hot air balloon safari in Serengeti
  • Visit Maasai tribal village
  • Olduvai Museum
  • Guided walk at Olduvai Gorge
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Tanzania Adventure Safari

In this extensive ten-day safari package, you’ll truly get a taste of everything that Tanzania has to offer! It’s a perfect blend of game drives, cultural experiences, and hiking, ensuring a diverse and enriching itinerary. Whether it’s encountering the Big Five, immersing in local culture or trekking through the picturesque Ngorongoro Highlands, this itinerary caters to a wide range of interests and preferences.

Why Visit Lake Manyara?

Manyara is often overlooked—but it delivers beautiful scenery, concentrated wildlife, and a surprising diversity of habitats.

Tree-Climbing Lions

The park is one of the few places in Africa where lions are regularly spotted in trees. Whether for shade or a better vantage point, it’s an unforgettable sight.

Birdlife & Flamingos

The lake is a magnet for waterbirds, especially flamingos. With over 400 bird species recorded, it’s a dream for birders and photographers.

Forests, Plains, and Hot Springs

The park begins in lush groundwater forest and transitions into acacia woodland, floodplains, and even sulfuric hot springs in the south.

Elephants & Primates

Elephants often roam the forest tracks, while troops of baboons—some of the largest in Africa—are always on the move.

Great Starter or Wind-Down Park

Close to Arusha and the crater, Manyara is ideal for a half-day safari or a gentle beginning or end to your safari itinerary.

When to Visit

Year-Round Destination: Wildlife is resident, and birding is always good.

June – October (Dry Season):

Best visibility, easier access to southern zones

November – March:

Flamingos and migratory birds return

April – May (Green Season): 

Fewer visitors, great for photographers

Note

Flamingo numbers depend on lake water levels and seasonal salinity.

What You’ll See

Tree-climbing lions
Elephants, baboons, vervet monkeys
Hippos and warthogs near the lake shore
Flamingos, pelicans, herons, and storks
Bushbuck, giraffes, zebras, and mongoose

Signature Experiences

Forest Game Drives

Cruise beneath giant fig and mahogany trees as monkeys leap above.

Hippo Pool Viewpoints

Watch hippos laze in the water from elevated observation decks.

Birdwatching Excursions

Spot pink flamingos, fish eagles, spoonbills, and many more.

Hot Springs Trek (southern end)

Explore the park’s geothermal side via boardwalks and natural vistas.

Where to Stay

Safari Styles Available

Half-day and full-day game drives

Combo safaris with Tarangire or Ngorongoro

Photography or birding-focused safaris

Cultural visits in nearby Mto wa Mbu village

Practical Information

Getting There: 2–3 hrs from Arusha; near Ngorongoro entry

Park Fees: ~$50/day for non-residents

Health: Malaria precautions advised

Packing Tips: Binoculars, sun hat, lightweight clothing, walking shoes

Suggested Add-On Trips

Ngorongoro Crater

Big Five and volcanic scenery

Tarangire National Park

Elephants and baobabs

Serengeti

Migration, big cats, endless plains

Mto wa Mbu

Cultural tours, banana beer tasting, local markets

Small Park, Big Highlights.

Lake Manyara is perfect for easing into or winding down your Tanzanian safari.
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Every journey with Jungle Dwellers is more than a trip—it's a deep dive into Africa's untamed beauty, guided by those who know it best.

Why Travel with Jungle Dwellers?

  • Local knowledge of Manyara’s best times and quiet zones
  • Seamless integration with Northern Circuit routes
  • Flexible pacing for half- or full-day safaris
  • Trusted lodge network and expert guides
  • IATA-accredited for full safari and travel coordination

Plan Your Safari

Whether you’ve got a day or a week, Lake Manyara delivers unique wildlife and scenic beauty on a compact scale.

Start Planning Now