Lake Manyara National Park
LAKE MANYARA Northern Circuit Gem UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Tree‑Climbing Lions & Rift Valley Views

Discover one of Tanzania's most scenic treasures - a smaller but incredibly diverse park famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, spectacular birdlife, and breathtaking Great Rift Valley escarpment views.

Explore Tours

Why Visit Lake Manyara?

Experience the unique blend of forest, lake, and savanna ecosystems that make this park a photographer's paradise and wildlife enthusiast's dream.

Tree-Climbing Lions

Witness the famous tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara - a rare behavior found in only a few places in Africa. These magnificent predators often rest in acacia trees during the heat of the day.

Signature Experience

Bird Paradise

Home to over 400 bird species including thousands of flamingos that create a spectacular pink carpet on the lake. Perfect for bird watching with species ranging from pelicans to kingfishers.

Photographer's Dream

Rift Valley Views

Spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment rising dramatically from the lake shore. The contrasting landscapes of forest, lake, and mountain create breathtaking scenery.

Scenic Wonder

Gallery & Experiences

Immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of Lake Manyara National Park

Tree-Climbing Lions

Tree-Climbing Lions

The famous lions resting in acacia trees

Flamingo Paradise

Flamingo Paradise

Thousands of flamingos creating a pink spectacle

Rift Valley Escarpment

Rift Valley Escarpment

Dramatic views of the Great Rift Valley

Forest Wildlife

Forest Wildlife

Diverse forest ecosystems and wildlife

About Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara National Park, though covering only 325 square kilometers, offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and wildlife. The park is nestled between the Great Rift Valley escarpment to the west and Lake Manyara to the east, creating a stunning natural amphitheater.

The park's groundwater forest is fed by springs emerging from the base of the escarpment, creating a lush oasis that contrasts dramatically with the surrounding savanna. This unique ecosystem supports an extraordinary variety of wildlife and birdlife.

What makes Lake Manyara truly special is its accessibility and the concentration of wildlife in a relatively small area. Visitors can expect to see elephants, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, and of course, the famous tree-climbing lions all in a single day.

Key Features

Groundwater Forest

Lush evergreen forest fed by natural springs, home to diverse wildlife including elephants and baboons.

Alkaline Lake

The shallow alkaline lake supports vast flocks of flamingos and other water birds throughout the year.

Rift Valley Escarpment

Dramatic 600-meter high escarpment providing breathtaking views and diverse habitats.

Hippo Pools

Several hippo pools where you can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know for an unforgettable Lake Manyara experience

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (June - October)

Peak wildlife viewing, animals congregate at water sources, clear skies for photography.

Wet Season (November - May)

Lush landscapes, excellent birding, fewer crowds, dramatic scenery.

Top Activities

  • Game drives through diverse habitats
  • Bird watching at the lake shores
  • Hippo pool viewing
  • Canoeing on the lake (seasonal)
  • Cultural village visits

Getting There

By Road

2-hour drive from Arusha (126km). Easy day trip or overnight stay.

By Air

Charter flights to Lake Manyara airstrip available from Arusha or Kilimanjaro.

Park Gates

Main gate open daily 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Entrance fees apply.

Ready for Your Lake Manyara Adventure?

Discover our carefully crafted tours that showcase the best of Lake Manyara National Park, from tree-climbing lions to spectacular birdlife and breathtaking Rift Valley views.