Lake Manyara national park
Tanzania's Rift Valley Wildlife Haven
Where Forests, Wildlife and the Rift Valley Meet
June–October — Dry conditions and strong wildlife-viewing opportunities.
June–October — Generally favourable for game drives and photography.
Tree-climbing lions, elephants, birdlife and the dramatic Rift Valley setting.
Elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, hippos, baboons and abundant birdlife.
- Overview
Why Visit Lake Manyara national park
Lake Manyara National Park is a compact but diverse safari destination in northern Tanzania, combining lake, woodland, forest and open grassland habitats.
The park is particularly known for elephants, birdlife and the possibility of seeing lions resting in trees. It works especially well as part of a northern Tanzania safari alongside Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Serengeti.
- Expert Advice
Lake Manyara works best as part of a northern Tanzania circuit. Its habitat diversity makes it a worthwhile contrast to the larger open plains of the Serengeti.
- Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara national park
June – September
(Peak Season)
Best Overall
December – February
(Dry Season)
Great Option
March – May & October – November (Dry Season)
Budget Friendly
Wildlife Highlights
Tree-Climbing Lions
The park is famous for lions that may rest in trees, creating one of its most distinctive safari experiences.
Hippos
Hippos can be observed around suitable water environments, particularly near the lake.
Giraffes
Giraffes are among the park's notable large herbivores and can be seen across open habitats.
Buffalo
Large buffalo contribute to the park's diverse large-mammal population and can be encountered during game drives.
Baboons & Monkeys
The park's forest and woodland habitats support several primate species, adding variety to game drives.
Birdlife
Lake Manyara's lake and surrounding habitats make it an attractive destination for birdwatchers, with particularly rich bird activity during suitable seasons.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN Lake Manyara national park
Game Drives
Explore the park's forests, woodland and open areas while searching for wildlife.
Birdwatching
Enjoy the park's diverse bird habitats around the lake and forest.
Elephant Viewing
Look for elephants moving through the park's varied habitats.
Tree-Climbing Lion Search
Explore areas where these unusual lion behaviours may be observed.
Photography
Capture wildlife against the lake, forest and Rift Valley scenery.
Explore Lake Manyara national park
Zanzibar
Tarangire National Park
Serengeti National park
Ruaha National Park
Nyerere National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Getting There
By Road
Lake Manyara is conveniently incorporated into northern Tanzania safari circuits.
From Arusha
It is commonly visited as part of a northern Tanzania safari route.
From Tarangire
The two parks can be combined efficiently within one itinerary.
From Ngorongoro
Lake Manyara can form part of a circuit continuing toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
From Serengeti
It can be incorporated into a wider northern Tanzania safari, depending on the chosen route.
Where To Stay in Lake Manyara national park
Pros and Cons of Visiting Lake Manyara national park
Pros of Visiting Lake Manyara national park
Things to Consider
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Location
Lake Manyara National Park lies in northern Tanzania within the Great Rift Valley.
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); major safari properties commonly accept international payment methods.
Accommodation
Most visitors stay in lodges and camps around the park or nearby safari towns.
Mobile & Internet
Connectivity varies, with stronger service in populated areas and weaker coverage in remote locations.
Getting Around
Game viewing is primarily conducted using guided safari vehicles.
SAFETY & HEALTH
Wildlife Safety
Remain inside the safari vehicle unless your professional guide confirms it is safe to exit.
Safari Guide
Always follow your guide's instructions when approaching wildlife or moving through remote areas
Malaria
Discuss appropriate malaria prevention with a qualified travel-health professional before travelling.
Yellow Fever
Requirements can depend on your travel history and countries visited before Tanzania.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended for safari activities, medical emergencies and travel disruptions.