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.
Suggested Lake Manyara safari itineraries
Manyara is often underestimated — yet in a small area it offers remarkable variety: forest, lake and Rift Valley. Our route suggestions show how to fit it into your safari and truly experience it.
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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Short distances: great for compact safari days.
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Groundwater forest: wildlife feels close, but can disappear into greenery fast.
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Baboon troops: a signature Manyara experience.
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Treetop Walk: elevated bridges through the canopy.
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Walking Safari: on foot with a ranger, focused on tracks & signs.*
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Lake & flamingos: water levels vary — birdlife remains strong.
* subject to local availability/permissions
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
Frequently Asked Questions about a
Laka Manyara National Park safari
Lake Manyara National Park was established in 1960 and, despite its relatively compact size, it offers remarkable ecological diversity within a small area. Often overshadowed by Serengeti and Ngorongoro, it is sometimes underestimated. Quite unfairly: its groundwater forests, flamingo-lined lake shores, tree-climbing lions, and dramatic Rift Valley escarpment make it one of Tanzania’s most scenic and varied safari destinations.
1. How many days do you need?
Plan 1–2 nights for game drives at different times of day and an optional activity like the Treetop Walk or Walking Safari. That should be enough.
2. Is Manyara suitable for families?
Yes — short distances and varied scenery work well.
3. Which wildlife can I expect in Lake Manyara National Park?
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Large baboon troops & blue monkeys in the groundwater forest
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Elephants, buffalo & giraffes are often seen
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Hippos in wet areas such as the Hippo Pool on the Simba River
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Lions & hyenas occur too, but are often harder to spot in dense vegetation than in open savannah parks
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Over 400 bird species — including flamingos, pelicans, cormorants and storks.
4. How likely are tree-climbing lions?
Possible, never guaranteed — which makes the sighting special.
5. How is Lake Manyara National Park different from Tarangire National Park?
Lake Manyara: greener forest-and-lake landscapes, dense vegetation, primates and rich birdlife.
Tarangire: open savannah, iconic baobabs, in the dry season much of the wildlife concentrates along the Tarangire River
6. How to fit Lake Manyara National park into a short 3–5 day safari from Zanzibar?
A classic 3–5 day route is:
• Arusha → Lake Manyara National Park → Ngorongoro Crater → Tarangire National Park → Arusha.
Forest and lake first, crater in the middle, then a Tarangire finale with baobabs and elephant herds.
Want the day-by-day plan? 3-day Northern Circuit Classic or 4-day Classic + Arusha NP