Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara is a stunning, shallow lake located in northern Tanzania within the Lake Manyara National Park, which is part of the Great Rift Valley. The park is known for its dramatic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect, activities to enjoy, and the best time to visit:

1. Overview of Lake Manyara National Park

• Location: Northern Tanzania, near the town of Mto wa Mbu, about 1.5 hours from Arusha by road.
• Size: 330 sq km (127 sq miles), with two-thirds of the park covered by the lake when full.
• Scenery: The park is known for its incredible diversity of ecosystems, ranging from dense forests, grassy plains, acacia woodlands, to the shores of the alkaline lake. It’s nestled at the base of the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley, providing breathtaking views.

2. Wildlife

• Birds: Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 400 species of birds recorded. You can see huge flocks of flamingos, pelicans, cormorants, and storks.
• Tree-climbing Lions: Unique to Lake Manyara, these lions often rest in the acacia trees, providing a rare and exciting sight.
• Other Animals: Elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, hippos, wildebeest, baboons, and impalas are common. You may also spot leopards, though they are more elusive.

3. Activities

• Game Drives: The most popular activity. Drives are typically done early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is more active. You can expect to see elephants, hippos, monkeys, and a variety of birds.
• Birdwatching: With over 400 species, birdwatching is one of the key attractions. You can spot flamingos, pelicans, and migratory species.
• Canoeing: In the wet season, you can take a canoe tour on the lake (though this depends on the water levels).
• Cultural Visits: Mto wa Mbu, a nearby village, offers cultural tours to learn about local tribes and their traditions.
• Treetop Walkway: A canopy walk through the forest offers a unique perspective of the wildlife, especially birds and monkeys.
• Night Game Drives: Some lodges offer night drives, giving you a chance to spot nocturnal species like bush babies and nightjars.
• Guided Walks: Explore the park on foot with a guide to learn about the smaller flora and fauna.

4. Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (June to October): The best time for wildlife viewing, as animals are easier to spot in the thinning vegetation. The weather is dry and cool, and the park’s roads are in good condition. This period is ideal for game drives and birdwatching.
• Wet Season (November to May): Best for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive, and the landscape is lush and green. The wet season has two periods:
  • Short Rains (November to December): The rains are not too heavy, and wildlife is still abundant.
  • Long Rains (March to May): The park may be harder to navigate due to muddy roads, but it’s the best time for canoeing on the lake.
• Flamingo Season: Flamingos typically arrive between November and May when water levels and conditions are right.

5. What to Expect

• Scenery: Expect lush forests, beautiful acacia woodlands, and expansive views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. The contrast of the lush greenery against the alkaline lake is stunning.
• Wildlife: Besides the more typical safari wildlife, Lake Manyara offers unique tree-climbing lions and large troops of baboons.
• Birdwatching: Whether you are a bird enthusiast or not, the abundance of birdlife, particularly flamingos, is impressive.
• Peaceful Setting: Lake Manyara is often less crowded than other northern Tanzanian parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, so you can enjoy a more peaceful safari experience.

Lake Manyara is often part of the classic northern Tanzania safari circuit, typically paired with visits to Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater.