Lake Manyara
Home of Tree-Climbing Lions & Pink Flamingos
Tree-Climbing Lions
Famous for lions lounging in trees
Flamingo Flocks
Thousands of pink flamingos on the lake
Alkaline Lake
Scenic soda lake covering 230 km²
Diverse Habitats
Forest, woodland, grassland & lake
A Gem of the Rift Valley
Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is a compact gem that packs incredible biodiversity into just 330 square kilometers. The park spans diverse habitats from dense groundwater forest to open grasslands and the alkaline lake itself.
Ernest Hemingway called it "the loveliest lake in Africa." Today, visitors are drawn by the famous tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, hippo pools, and the spectacular sight of thousands of flamingos painting the lake shore pink.
Lake Manyara Safari Packages
6-Day Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Lake Eyasi Safari
6-Day Tanzania Wildlife up Close
6-Day Tanzania Wildlife Adventure Safari
6-Day Amazing Budget Wildlife & Culture Experience Tour
5-Day The Best of Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and Serengeti
5-Day Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater& Manyara
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lake Manyara famous for?
Lake Manyara is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, a unique behavior not commonly seen elsewhere. The park is also famous for its massive flocks of flamingos, dense groundwater forest, and incredible biodiversity packed into a relatively small area.
How long should I spend at Lake Manyara?
Lake Manyara is perfect for a half-day or full-day game drive. Most visitors spend 4-6 hours exploring the park. It's often combined with Tarangire and Ngorongoro as part of a multi-day Northern Circuit safari.
When is the best time to see flamingos?
Flamingos are present year-round but are most numerous during the wet season (November-May) when water levels are higher. During peak times, the lake shore turns pink with hundreds of thousands of lesser and greater flamingos.
Is Lake Manyara suitable for a day trip?
Yes! Lake Manyara is only 120 km from Arusha, making it perfect for a day trip. Its compact size means you can see the highlights in one day. However, combining it with nearby parks offers a richer safari experience.
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