Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is a protected area located in northern Tanzania, known for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Established in 1960, the park covers approximately 330 square kilometers (127 square miles), with the alkaline Lake Manyara at its center. The park is part of the larger Lake Manyara Basin and is situated at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, offering stunning landscapes and a variety of habitats.

Key Features of Lake Manyara National Park

1. Lake Manyara:

• • The park is named after the shallow, alkaline lake that covers a significant portion of its area.
  • The lake is a seasonal home to thousands of flamingos and other waterbirds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
  • During the dry season, the lake shrinks, leaving behind salt flats.

2. Diverse Ecosystems:

• • The park features a variety of habitats, including groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, open grasslands, and the lake itself.
  • The groundwater forest is particularly unique, with towering fig and mahogany trees.

3. Wildlife:

• • Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior not commonly seen in other parts of Africa.
  • Other wildlife includes elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, zebras, wildebeests, and a variety of primates, such as baboons and blue monkeys.
  • The park is also home to over 400 bird species, including pelicans, storks, and eagles.

4. Scenic Beauty:

• • The park offers breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the lake.
  • The varied landscapes make it a picturesque destination for photography and nature enthusiasts.

Activities

• • Game Drives: The park is easily explored by vehicle, with well-maintained roads that provide access to its diverse habitats.

• • Birdwatching: The lake and surrounding areas are ideal for spotting both resident and migratory birds.

• • Canopy Walkway: A treetop walkway offers a unique perspective of the forest and its wildlife.

• • Cultural Tours: Visitors can explore nearby Maasai villages to learn about their traditional way of life.

Accessibility

• • Lake Manyara National Park is conveniently located between Arusha and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, making it a popular stop on northern Tanzania’s safari circuit.

• • It is approximately 126 kilometers (78 miles) from Arusha and can be reached by road or air.

Best Time to Visit

• The dry season (June to October) is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources.

• The wet season (November to May) is ideal for birdwatching, as migratory birds are present and the landscape is lush and green.