Discover lake Manyara national park. Lake Manyara National Park (NP) is a 125 sq. mile park in northern Tanzania, some 55 miles/2hrs 40 minutes driving from the Ngorongoro Crater.
This is a small park at the base of the Great Rift Valley slope with a groundwater forest offering shelter to the unique tree-climbing lions found in the area. Elephants and birdlife including pelicans are also prolific and commonly found in the area.
A Lake Manyara safari offers visitors the chance to go game viewing near the legendary tree-climbing lions and impressively tusked elephants as well as large buffalo, wildebeest, and zebra herds congregating on the grassy plains.
Visitors to Lake Manyara will also enjoy the peace and tranquility of game drives with lesser crowds, compared to the busier Serengeti, guests will be able to fully appreciate their Tanzania safari experience and see plenty of animals.
Lake Manyara also is home to the only ‘Treetop Walkway’ in Tanzania. What a wonderful way to discover Lake Manyara National Park. A sky-high adventure through the beautiful forest of Lake Manyara walking amongst the treetops and experiencing the untouched nature and surroundings.
The alkaline lake is also a seasonal home to large flocks of flamingos, and a wide array of waterbirds can be found on the shore at all times.
Visitors will find tree-climbing lions, elephants as well as hippos, giraffes, impalas, zebra, flamingos, blue and vervet monkeys, bushbuck, baboons, leopards, and more.
The lions climb the trees to avoid tsetse flies and other bugs, but also to enjoy the cooler breeze and get an extended view of the surroundings while spotting potential prey.
Typically, tree-climbing lions tend to choose trees that are short and stout, easy to climb, and quickly jump out of if needed.
The density of wildlife and vegetation makes the park unique as well as the different ecosystems that create a diverse environment from arid lands to the stunning salt lake to lush forests and acacia woodlands, attracting large and small animals alike.
Mahogany and sausage trees are alive with blue and vervet monkeys; elephants feed on fallen fruit, and bushbuck, baboons, and leopards make their homes in the forest.
Over 400 species of birds can be found including black heron, glossy ibis, little bee-eater, and more.
A big array of water-associated birds, including pink-backed pelicans, are easily seen around the hippo pool. More than 50 birds of prey have been recorded including the crowned eagle.
The extended lake which gives the park its name attracts several species of birds and creates the perfect oasis for wildlife. The most impressive view includes that of hundreds of pink flamingos by the lake waters of the lake, making for breathtaking scenery and great shots.
There are multiple activities and things to do in Tanzania that can be added to your safari including walking safaris and trips to the Ngorongoro Crater. Here are some other activities which visitors can consider during their visit to Lake Manyara National Park:
