Lake Manyara National Park – Size & Establishment
Lake Manyara National Park is a relatively small but incredibly scenic park, covering about 330 square kilometers, of which nearly two-thirds is occupied by the alkaline Lake Manyara itself. Established in 1960, the park is situated at the base of the dramatic Great Rift Valley escarpment. Despite its compact size, it boasts remarkably diverse habitats, ranging from dense groundwater forests and acacia woodlands to open grasslands and the vast lake shore, making it a vital stop on the northern Tanzania safari circuit.
Animals to See in Lake Manyara National Park
The park is world-famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, often seen resting on the branches of acacia trees. It also hosts one of the highest densities of elephants in Tanzania. In the lush ground-water forest near the entrance, you will find large troops of baboons and blue monkeys. The plains are home to wildebeests, zebras, and giraffes, while the lake’s edge is a sanctuary for hippos. Rare sightings of leopards and cheetahs are also possible within the park’s diverse vegetation.
Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara National Park
The best time for large mammal viewing is during the dry season, from July to October, when animals are concentrated near water sources. However, the wet season (November to June) is the ideal time for birdwatching and enjoying the park’s lush, green scenery. This is when the waterfalls cascade down the escarpment and the lake level is highest, attracting the largest numbers of flamingos. Since the park is relatively small, it offers rewarding wildlife experiences throughout the year.
Flamingos & The Alkaline Lake
The shallow, alkaline Lake Manyara is the park’s most iconic feature, acting as a magnet for thousands of greater and lesser flamingos that create a shimmering pink hue along the shoreline. Besides flamingos, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 400 recorded species, including pelicans, storks, cormorants, and the majestic African fish eagle. The combination of the lake and the surrounding wetlands provides one of the best aquatic bird viewing experiences in East Africa.
Treetop Walkway & Night Safaris
One of the most unique activities in Lake Manyara is the Treetop Walkway, a 370-meter suspended bridge that allows visitors to walk through the forest canopy, offering a “bird’s-eye view” of the monkeys and birds. Additionally, Lake Manyara is one of the few national parks in Tanzania that allows night game drives. These guided tours offer a rare opportunity to see nocturnal animals such as porcupines, genets, and civets, as well as predators like lions and leopards on the hunt.
Tree Climbing Lion
Beyond its diverse landscapes, Lake Manyara is legendary for its unique population of tree-climbing lions. Witnessing a full-grown apex predator effortlessly draped across an acacia branch is a thrilling and unforgettable highlight for safari-goers. Experts believe these lions climb to catch a cool breeze away from the sweltering ground and tsetse flies, making the park one of the best destinations in Africa to witness this extraordinary behavior.
