ABOUT MANYARA NATIONAL PARK
Lake Manyara National Park is a scenic gem nestled in Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, renowned for its diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Here’s everything you need to know about Lake Manyara:
Location : Lake Manyara National Park is located in northern Tanzania, approximately 126 kilometers (78 miles) southwest of Arusha. It lies within the Manyara Region and is bordered by the Great Rift Valley escarpment to the west and Lake Manyara to the east.
Size : The park covers an area of approximately 330 square kilometers (127 square miles), making it one of the smaller national parks in Tanzania.
Landscape : Lake Manyara National Park is characterized by a varied landscape, including groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, grassy plains, and the alkaline Lake Manyara itself. The park is famous for its striking scenery, with the Great Rift Valley escarpment providing a dramatic backdrop to the lush vegetation and shimmering lake.
Activities : Common activities in Lake Manyara National Park include game drives, birdwatching, guided walks, and cultural visits to local Maasai communities. Boat safaris on Lake Manyara offer a unique perspective of the park’s wildlife and scenery.
Accommodation : Lake Manyara National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, including luxury lodges, tented camps, and campsites. Many lodges and camps are located within or near the park boundaries, offering stunning views and easy access to wildlife-rich areas.
Wildlife : Despite its smaller size, Lake Manyara is home to a diverse array of wildlife. The park is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, which can often be spotted resting in the branches of acacia trees. Other notable species include elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, and various antelope species such as impala and klipspringer. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the park’s rich birdlife, with over 400 bird species recorded.
Best Time to Visit : Lake Manyara National Park can be visited year-round, but the dry season (from June to October) is considered the best time for wildlife viewing. During this time, vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot animals, and wildlife tends to concentrate around the lake and other water sources. The wet season (from November to May) brings lush green landscapes and migratory bird species to the area, but wildlife may be more dispersed.
Accessibility : The park is accessible by road from Arusha, with the journey taking approximately 2-3 hours. Many visitors combine a visit to Lake Manyara with a safari in neighboring parks such as Tarangire or the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Conservation : Lake Manyara National Park is managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) with the aim of conserving its natural and cultural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to park rules and regulations to minimize their impact on the environment and wildlife.
Entry Fees: Visitors to Lake Manyara National Park are required to pay entry fees, which contribute to conservation efforts and park management. Fees vary depending on nationality, vehicle type, and duration of stay, so it’s advisable to check with park authorities or tour operators for the latest fee informatio
Overall, Lake Manyara National Park offers a rewarding safari experience with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural encounters, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers in Tanzania.