Overview

Nestled between the Great Rift Valley escarpment and Lake Manyara, this national park is a compact yet vibrant ecosystem rich in biodiversity. Spanning 330 square kilometers, with nearly two-thirds covered by the alkaline lake, it is famed for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and lush groundwater forests. The park’s diversity of habitats supports a wide variety of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Activities

1. Game Drives: Explore Lake Manyara’s wildlife-rich areas, from open savannahs to woodlands, in morning or evening safaris.
2. Bird Watching: With over 400 species, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Highlights include pelicans, storks, and flamingos that thrive along the lake.
3. Canoeing: During the wet season, canoe safaris offer a unique perspective of the park, providing close encounters with waterbirds and hippos.
4. Nature Walks: Guided forest walks introduce visitors to the park’s flora, small mammals, and waterfalls.
5. Treetop Walkway: Walk through suspended bridges high in the forest canopy to experience stunning views of the park.
6. Cultural Visits: Nearby villages like Mto wa Mbu provide opportunities to interact with local communities and explore Tanzanian culture.

Flora

Lake Manyara is a patchwork of diverse ecosystems:

• Groundwater Forests: Evergreen trees such as fig and mahogany dominate, thriving on underground springs.
• Acacia Woodlands: These open areas are dotted with acacia trees and are home to many herbivores and predators.
• Alkaline Lake Shoreline: The seasonal lake attracts flamingos and other waterbirds, especially during the wet season.
• Swamps and Grasslands: These areas support hippos, elephants, and other grazing animals.

Fauna
The park’s wildlife is as diverse as its landscapes:

• Tree-Climbing Lions: These unique predators are often seen lounging on tree branches, a rare behavior in lions.
• Elephants: Manyara is known for its large elephant population, often spotted near the forest edge.
• Other Mammals: Hippos, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and warthogs roam the savannahs and forests.
• Primates: Blue monkeys, olive baboons, and vervet monkeys are common in the forested areas.
• Birdlife: Flamingos create a pink spectacle on the lake, while other birds like African spoonbills, cormorants, and grey crowned cranes are frequently spotted.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (June to October): Excellent for spotting large mammals near water sources and enjoying clear skies.
• Wet Season (November to May): Ideal for birdwatching and witnessing the lush green landscapes, with the best chance of seeing flamingos.