Lake Manyara National Park

Where Lions Climb Trees and Flamingos Dance

Home > Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania

Manyara, the Jewel of the Rift Valley

Lake Manyara National Park is a concentration of wonders. Nestled at the foot of the spectacular cliffs of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, this park offers an incredible diversity of ecosystems in a small area. In a few hours, you can go from a lush jungle teeming with baboons to an acacia savannah, and finally to the shores of a spectacular alkaline lake.

This diversity makes it a sanctuary for varied wildlife. The park is world-famous for two reasons: its immense colonies of **flamingos** that color the lake, and its populations of **tree-climbing lions**, a rare behavior only observed in a handful of places in Africa.

📍
Location
Northern Tanzania, south of Lake Manyara
📏
Area
330 kmÂČ (2/3 covered by the lake)
🩁
Emblematic Animals
Tree-climbing Lion, Flamingo
📅
Best Period
June-Oct (mammals), Nov-April (birds)

Who Will You Meet at Lake Manyara?

Tree-climbing lion

The Tree-Climbing Lions

This is Manyara's main celebrity. Observe this rare behavior where lions lounge on acacia branches to escape the heat and insects. An unforgettable sight for the lucky few!

A Birdwatcher's Paradise

The alkaline lake attracts thousands of flamingos that form a vibrant pink carpet. You will also see pelicans, storks, and over 400 other bird species, making this park a must-visit for enthusiasts.

Life of the Forest

The lush forest at the park's entrance is home to one of Africa's largest concentrations of baboons. Look up to spot the agile blue monkeys leaping from branch to branch.

The Great Mammals

Beyond its stars, the park is rich in large mammals. You'll encounter herds of buffalo and wildebeest in the plains, hippos basking in the shallow waters, and many giraffes and zebras.

When to Visit Lake Manyara?

☀

Dry Season (June - October)

This is the best period for observing large mammals. As water becomes scarcer, animals like elephants, buffalo, and giraffes gather near permanent sources and the lake, making them easier to spot. It's also a great time to see the tree-climbing lions.

🌿

Wet Season (November - May)

The park transforms into a lush Garden of Eden. This is the **ideal season for bird lovers**, as thousands of migratory birds, including flamingos, flock to the lake. The escarpment's waterfalls are magnificent, and there are far fewer visitors, offering a more intimate experience.

Ready to Discover the Jewel of the Rift?

Lake Manyara is a fascinating stage that enriches any safari in Tanzania. Contact our specialists to include it in your tailor-made trip.

Start Creating

Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Address

184 Mayfield St. Hopewell
Junction, NY 12533

Phone

Email

We are dedicated to help you complete your bucket list in Tanzania. Explore the wildlife and climb Kilimanjaro with us.

Address

POV BOX 96 Marangu, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Phone

Email