Where forest, lake and wildlife come together
Lake Manyara National Park is a compact but remarkably diverse safari destination in northern Tanzania. Set between the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the alkaline waters of Lake Manyara, the park combines lush groundwater forests, open grasslands, wetlands and dramatic landscapes.
It is especially known for large elephant herds, abundant birdlife, tree-climbing lions and beautiful Rift Valley scenery.
Best: Year-round | Excellent for birdwatching in the green season
Lake Manyara offers a diverse experience throughout the year. The drier months provide good wildlife viewing, while the green season brings lush scenery and excellent birdwatching, including migratory species.
Best for: Birdwatching • Elephants • Tree-climbing lions • Scenic landscapes
Combine Lake Manyara With
Arusha → Lake Manyara → Ngorongoro → Serengeti
Also combine with Tarangire for a diverse Northern Tanzania safari.
Why Visit Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara offers a remarkable variety of landscapes and wildlife within a compact area, from groundwater forests and open grasslands to the shores of the Rift Valley lake. The park is known for its large elephant population, abundant birdlife and the possibility of spotting tree-climbing lions. Beyond wildlife, the dramatic escarpment and changing lake scenery make Manyara a beautiful and rewarding stop on a Northern Tanzania safari, especially when combined with Tarangire, Ngorongoro or a cultural experience in Mto wa Mbu.
Safari Experiences
- Game Drives
Explore forests, woodlands, grasslands and wetlands in search of wildlife. - Birdwatching
Discover Lake Manyara’s rich birdlife across its diverse habitats. - Photography
Capture wildlife, landscapes and dramatic Rift Valley scenery. - Cultural Experiences
Add a community or cultural experience in nearby Mto wa Mbu. - Rift Valley escarpment
