Lake Manyara National Park
The Where rainforest, flamingos and tree-climbing lions meet
Discover Lake Manyara National Park: safari moments beyond the vehicle on the Treetop Walk (Canopy Walkway) or a Walking Safari, plus flamingos on the soda lake and dramatic Rift Valley scenery on the route between Arusha and the Ngorongoro Crater.
What makes Lake Manyara National Park so unique
Safari in an Evergreen Rainforest
Right after the gate, you enter a shady, evergreen forest: the famous groundwater forest. Here, elephants move between tall trees while blue monkeys leap through the canopy.
Nature feels close and alive: large troops of baboons, birdsong and butterflies around ancient trees.
Ernest Hemingway is said to have called this the most beautiful park in Africa — and in this forest, you’ll understand why.
Soda Lake & Rift Valley Views
Lake Manyara is a shallow soda lake beneath the Rift Valley escarpment. Depending on water levels, the shoreline can feel wide and open or much narrower — the lake shapes the landscape in a very visible way.
When conditions are right, thousands of flamingos turn the waterline pink. Add pelicans, cormorants and many other lake bird species.
In wet areas such as the Hippo Pool along the Simba River, you can often spot hippos. With more than 400 bird species, Manyara is a paradise for bird lovers — well beyond the flamingo season.
Tree-Climbing Lions & Experiences Beyond the Vehicle
Lake Manyara is famous for tree-climbing lions — an iconic sight when lions rest in the branches. Even seasoned safari guests remember it.
There are also experiences beyond classic game drives: the Treetop Walk (Canopy Walkway) takes you across elevated bridges through the crowns of the groundwater forest.
On a Walking Safari with a ranger, the pace turns quiet and intense: reading tracks, following footprints and spotting animal signs you’d easily miss from a vehicle.
Highlights of Lake Manyara National Park
Rainforest, lakeshore and canopy views — these highlights deliver Lake Manyara’s most memorable safari moments.
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Groundwater forest
Evergreen, shaded and full of life — a very different safari feel from open savannah.
Groundwater forest
Large baboon troops
Great for observing behaviour up close, from youngsters to the constant movement of the troop.
Large baboon troops
Flamingos on Lake Manyara
When conditions fit, the shoreline turns pink — plus many other lake bird species.
Flamingos on Lake Manyara
Hippos in wet areas
A strong Manyara highlight around pools and river sections.
Hippos in wet areas
Tree-climbing lions
That moment when lions rest above you in the branches stays with you.
Tree-climbing lions
Treetop Walk & Walking Safari
Up in the canopy or on foot with a ranger — Manyara feels especially close.
Treetop Walk & Walking Safari
Best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is a year-round destination. Seasonality mainly changes greenery, water levels and birdlife.
Our suggestions for your Nyerere safari
Nyerere National Park on the Rufiji offers remarkable variety: game drives, boat trips and walking safaris on foot through the bush—often quiet, wild and far from the main routes. To help you find the right mix, we’ve put together suggested Nyerere safari itineraries that bring together wildlife viewing, river landscapes and a true feeling of wilderness. From slow river days to deeper time in the bush, each route has its own rhythm.
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Practical tips for Lake Manyara safaris
Whether it’s a game drive in an open 4x4, a Rufiji River boat safari, or a walking safari on foot, a few simple preparations will make your time in Nyerere National Park more comfortable—and more immersive. With these tips, you’ll be well prepared to enjoy the adventure with ease.
What to Pack
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Neutral-colored clothing
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Lightweight layers for changing temperatures
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Comfortable closed shoes
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Wide-brim hat and sunglasses
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Binoculars and a camera with zoom lens
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Insect repellent and sunscreen
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Soft duffel bags instead of suitcases
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A Type G, D travel adapter
What to Expect
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Game drives early morning and in the afternoon
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Rufiji River boat safaris through channels and backwaters (seasonal)
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Time to relax at your lodge or camp between activities
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Dusty, sometimes bumpy tracks are part of the safari experience
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Open 4x4 safari vehicles for close-up wildlife viewing​
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In selected camps, walking safaris or night game drives may be*
(*depending on lodge and availability)
Learn more here
Entry Requirements
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Tourist visa required, e-Visa recommended
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Yellow fever vaccination if arriving from risk areas or transit > 12 h
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​Passport valid at least 6 months beyond entry date
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Proof of return or onward ticket required
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Import/export of Tanzanian shilling (TZS) prohibited
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Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared
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Frequently Asked Questions about a
Nyerere National Park safari
Nyerere National Park was established in 2019 from the Selous protected area. It is Tanzania’s largest national park—yet it’s rarely the first name people mention. Quite unfairly: the Rufiji River, boat safaris and vast open space make it one of the country’s most unspoilt safari regions.
1. How many days should I plan for Nyerere National Park?
We recommend at least 2 nights, ideally 3. That gives you time for several game drives at different times of day—plus a Rufiji River boat safari and, depending on the camp, a walking safari or a night drive.
2. Is Nyerere National Park suitable for children?
Yes—many lodges and camps are family-friendly, and game drives can be tailored to your family’s pace. Some activities have minimum-age guidelines depending on the lodge, especially walking safaris. We’ll match the right accommodation and schedule to your family.
3. Which animals can I reliably expect to see in Nyerere?
Very common sightings include elephant, buffalo, hippo, crocodile and many antelope species. Lions are often seen and, with luck, leopard as well. A real highlight is the African wild dog. Rhinos are only seen extremely rarely.
4. How is a safari in Nyerere different from other parks?
Nyerere is a water-based safari: Rufiji River boat safaris are a core part of the experience. Add a varied mix of river channels, lakes, woodland and open plains—and usually far fewer vehicles than on Tanzania’s classic northern route.
5. What types of accommodation are available?
Options range from comfortable lodges to stylish tented camps, often right on the river. Many are unfenced, so wildlife can move freely—adding to the authentic Nyerere National Park safari atmosphere. Clear camp rules and welltrained teams on site ensure you feel well looked after at all times.
6. How can I best include Nyerere in a safari itinerary?
A Southern Tanzania safari circuit is ideal: combine Nyerere with Ruaha for even more wilderness and strong predator country. Alternatively, pair Nyerere with Mikumi for a shorter, easy add-on, and include Udzungwa if hiking and waterfalls are on your wish list. For a beach finish, Zanzibar or Mafia Island are excellent choices. If you continue north afterwards, you can fly on toward the Serengeti.