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About

Lake Manyara National Park is located in northern Tanzania just 43 miles (70 km) northwest of Tarangire National Park.  The national park encompasses an area of 125 square miles (325 sq km).

The boundaries of the national park include 89 square miles (230 sq km) of Lake Manyara itself.  It is a Biosphere Reserve.  Lake Manyara is a shallow alkaline lake created by a depression within the Great Rift Valley.  The lake sits at an elevation of about 3,150 feet (960 m).

The lake is shallow making it easy for wildlife to leverage across the entire thing.  Even during the rainy season when the lake is at its fullest, the peak depth is only 12 feet (3.7 m).  During the rainy season, the lake extends 25 miles (40 km) wide by 9.3 miles (15 km) long.

Typically, the deepest point is about 10 feet (3.0 m).  However, the average depth is only about 2.8 feet (0.81 m).  Marshlands, saline flats, and grasslands surround the lake.  A small forest featuring fig and mahogany trees are near the entrance to the park.  Baobab trees are also found within the park boundaries.

Streams that feed into the lake are covered with sycamore fig, forest toad-tree, Acacia, and the palm Phoenix.  The diversity of the terrain include woodlands, grasslands, swamps and marshes, and alkaline lake.  Because the area has strong water sources, there are large fig and mahogany trees that grace the area.

The land portion of the park is a narrow stretch of land the exists between Lake Manyara and the Gregory Rift Wall that lies to the west.  The marshes, grasslands, and accessible lake make this a great place for wildlife.

In addition to wildlife, the park features over 670 flowering plant species.  Ferns are also common adding to the stunning flora of the region.  The migration of wildebeests, zebra, Thomson’s gazelle, and Grant’s gazelle travels through the area.

Some of the other wildlife include bushbuck, baboon, buffalo, badger, elephant, giraffe, warthog, and zebra.  Some of the predator species include African wild cat, African golden cat, bat-eared fox, Cheetah, civet, hyena, jackal, lion, and leopard.  One of the unique features of the park’s wildlife, Lake Manyara is home to tree-climbing lions.  The buffalo are plentiful with herds reaching over 300 being recorded.

Lake Manyara National Park is renowned for the abundance of flamingos.  There is an estimated 1.9 million flamingo that leverages the shallow alkaline lake for feeding on algae.  There is another large population of varied water birds making the collective population of around 2.5 million water birds. There are over 30 different predator species of birds found in the park.

It is a bird watcher’s haven.  In addition to the abundance of flamingo and waterfowl, there are 40 different species of predatory birds with over 390 species of birds altogether.

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Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park

Things to See

With over 370 species of birds and 1.9 million flamingos, birdwatching is a highlight of the park.  The other highlight is game-viewing with the abundance and variety of wildlife found within the park.

Predators

Predators

Lake Manyara National Park is home to a variety of predators that play a crucial role in maintaining the park’s ecological balance. These predators are adept hunters and fascinating to observe in their natural habitat.

Lion: Lake Manyara is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, a unique behavior not commonly observed elsewhere. These apex predators stalk the park’s grasslands and woodlands in search of prey.

Leopard: Stealthy and elusive, leopards inhabit the dense forests and rocky outcrops of Lake Manyara. They are skilled climbers and ambush hunters, preying on antelope and smaller mammals.

Spotted Hyena: Highly adaptable scavengers, spotted hyenas are common sights in Lake Manyara. They hunt in packs and scavenge for food, often competing with lions and other predators for kills.

African Wild Dog: Endangered and highly social, African wild dogs roam the open plains of Lake Manyara in pursuit of prey. Their cooperative hunting strategies make them efficient hunters.

Cheetah: Lake Manyara is one of the few places in Tanzania where cheetahs can be spotted. These fast and agile predators rely on speed to chase down their prey on the park’s vast savannas.

Popular

Popular

Lake Manyara National Park is teeming with diverse wildlife, offering visitors the opportunity to encounter a variety of fascinating species beyond the predators. Here are some highlights:

Elephant: Majestic and iconic, elephants roam the woodlands and grasslands of Lake Manyara. They can often be seen bathing in the park’s namesake lake, providing memorable wildlife sightings.

Giraffe: Towering over the acacia trees, giraffes are a common sight in Lake Manyara. Their graceful movements and unique browsing behavior make them a favorite among visitors.

Buffalo: Forming large herds, Cape buffaloes are a formidable presence in Lake Manyara. These robust herbivores can often be spotted grazing on the park’s grassy plains.

Hippopotamus: Despite their massive size, hippos are surprisingly agile in the water. Lake Manyara provides a sanctuary for these semi-aquatic mammals, where they spend much of their time submerged.

Zebra: Striped and striking, zebras add a touch of patterned beauty to Lake Manyara’s landscapes. Their distinctive black-and-white coats make them easily recognizable as they graze in the grasslands.

Wildebeest: Known for their annual migration, wildebeests are a spectacle to behold in Lake Manyara. These hoofed mammals travel in vast herds, crossing the park’s plains in search of greener pastures.

Impala: Graceful and agile, impalas are a common antelope species in Lake Manyara. Their leaping abilities and keen senses help them evade predators and thrive in the park’s diverse habitats.

Baboon: Playful and social, baboons are a familiar sight in Lake Manyara. These intelligent primates inhabit the woodlands and can often be seen foraging for food or grooming each other.

Hyrax: Small and unassuming, hyraxes are often overlooked but abundant in Lake Manyara. These rock-dwelling mammals are distantly related to elephants and share similar features.

Dik-dik: Among the smallest antelope species, dik-diks are endemic to East Africa and can be found in Lake Manyara. Their diminutive size and shy demeanor make them a charming addition to the park’s wildlife.

Birds

Birds

Lake Manyara National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting a diverse avian population that includes both resident and migratory species. Here are some of the park’s notable bird species:

Flamingo: The park’s alkaline Lake Manyara is a breeding ground for flamingos, attracting thousands of these iconic pink birds during the wet season. Their vibrant plumage creates a striking spectacle against the lake’s waters.

African Fish Eagle: With its distinctive white head and piercing yellow eyes, the African fish eagle is a symbol of Africa’s waterways. These powerful raptors can often be seen perched near Lake Manyara, scanning for prey.

Great White Pelican: Large and elegant, great white pelicans are frequent visitors to Lake Manyara. They gather in large flocks, gliding gracefully across the water as they search for fish to scoop up in their bills.

Yellow-billed Stork: Easily identified by its long, yellow beak, the yellow-billed stork is a common sight along the shores of Lake Manyara. These wading birds use their bills to probe the shallow waters for prey.

Grey-crowned Crane: Africa’s national bird, the grey-crowned crane, can be spotted in Lake Manyara’s grasslands and wetlands. With its striking plumage and elaborate courtship displays, it’s a captivating sight for bird enthusiasts.

Superb Starling: Vibrant and iridescent, the superb starling adds a splash of color to Lake Manyara’s woodlands. Its shimmering blue and orange feathers make it one of the park’s most visually striking birds.

Marabou Stork: With its bald head and massive size, the marabou stork is an imposing presence in Lake Manyara. These scavengers can often be seen scavenging for carrion or perched high in the trees.

Helmeted Guineafowl: Recognizable by their distinctive spotted plumage and blue-black heads, helmeted guineafowl are a common sight in Lake Manyara. They forage for seeds and insects on the park’s forest floors.

Hammerkop: Named for its hammer-shaped head, the hammerkop is a unique and enigmatic bird found in Lake Manyara’s wetlands. It builds large, domed nests resembling haystacks in trees near water bodies.

White-backed Vulture: A vital component of the park’s ecosystem, white-backed vultures play a crucial role in scavenging carcasses and cleaning up the environment. Their soaring flights are a common sight above Lake Manyara.

Things To Do

Engaging Lake Manyara

Game Drives

Embark on thrilling game drives through Lake Manyara National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife population. Traverse the park’s varied landscapes, from lush forests to expansive grasslands, in search of iconic species such as elephants, giraffes, lions, and the famous tree-climbing lions.

Birdwatching

Explore Lake Manyara’s rich avian diversity, with over 400 bird species recorded in the park. Witness the spectacle of pink-hued flamingos wading in the lake’s shallow waters, along with numerous waterfowl, raptors, and migratory birds that inhabit the park’s wetlands and woodlands.

Nature Walks

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of Lake Manyara’s wilderness on a guided nature walk. Traverse scenic trails with knowledgeable guides, who will share insights into the park’s ecology, medicinal plants, and smaller wildlife often missed on game drives.

Canoe Safaris

Experience the serene beauty of Lake Manyara from a different perspective on a guided canoe safari. Paddle along the tranquil waters of the lake, accompanied by an experienced guide who will point out resident wildlife, including hippos, waterfowl, and other aquatic creatures.

Game Drives

Embark on thrilling game drives through Lake Manyara National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife population. Traverse the park’s varied landscapes, from lush forests to expansive grasslands, in search of iconic species such as elephants, giraffes, lions, and the famous tree-climbing lions.

Birdwatching

Explore Lake Manyara’s rich avian diversity, with over 400 bird species recorded in the park. Witness the spectacle of pink-hued flamingos wading in the lake’s shallow waters, along with numerous waterfowl, raptors, and migratory birds that inhabit the park’s wetlands and woodlands.

Nature Walks

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of Lake Manyara’s wilderness on a guided nature walk. Traverse scenic trails with knowledgeable guides, who will share insights into the park’s ecology, medicinal plants, and smaller wildlife often missed on game drives.

Canoe Safaris

Experience the serene beauty of Lake Manyara from a different perspective on a guided canoe safari. Paddle along the tranquil waters of the lake, accompanied by an experienced guide who will point out resident wildlife, including hippos, waterfowl, and other aquatic creatures.

Lake Manyara National Park Trails

There are no trails for hiking in Lake Manyara National Park.  However, there are guided hikes along the Great Rift Valley ridge which provides views out over the park.  This is a great way to experience the outdoors and get closer to nature.

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Lake Shore Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2 miles (3.2 km) with minimal elevation gain

Description: The Lake Shore Trail offers a leisurely stroll along the scenic shores of Lake Manyara, providing opportunities to observe diverse birdlife and wildlife such as hippos and elephants.

Hikers will walk along flat paths, enjoying panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.

Take in the serene ambiance of the park while immersing yourself in the beauty of one of Tanzania’s most biodiverse habitats.

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Msasa Loop Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3 miles (4.8 km) with an elevation gain of 328 feet (100 meters)

Description: The Msasa Loop Trail meanders through the diverse habitats of Lake Manyara National Park, including woodlands and grasslands.

Hikers will encounter wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and baboons while enjoying sightings of colorful bird species.

The trail offers gentle ascents and descents, providing opportunities to appreciate the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Enjoy the tranquility of the African wilderness on this scenic hike.

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Maji Moto Hot Springs Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 4 miles (6.4 km) with minimal elevation gain

Description: The Maji Moto Hot Springs Trail leads hikers to the rejuvenating Maji Moto hot springs, nestled amidst the lush vegetation of Lake Manyara National Park.

Hikers will trek through wooded areas and open grasslands, encountering wildlife along the way.

Enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural thermal pools while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush, making this trail a refreshing retreat for nature lovers.

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Rift Valley Viewpoint Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 5 miles (8 km) with an elevation gain of 656 feet (200 meters)

Description: The Rift Valley Viewpoint Trail offers panoramic vistas of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Manyara from elevated vantage points within the park.

Hikers will trek through diverse landscapes, including acacia woodlands and rocky outcrops, while enjoying sightings of wildlife such as elephants and antelopes.

Marvel at the expansive views of the Rift Valley’s dramatic escarpments and the shimmering waters of Lake Manyara on this scenic hike.

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Endabash River Trail

Rating: Moderate to Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: 6 miles (9.7 km) with an elevation gain of 984 feet (300 meters)

Description: The Endabash River Trail follows the meandering course of the Endabash River through Lake Manyara National Park, offering opportunities to encounter wildlife and explore diverse habitats.

Hikers will traverse through riverine forests and open savannah, encountering elephants, buffaloes, and various bird species along the way.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the African bush while exploring this scenic and wildlife-rich trail.

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Lake Shore Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2 miles (3.2 km) with minimal elevation gain

Description: The Lake Shore Trail offers a leisurely stroll along the scenic shores of Lake Manyara, providing opportunities to observe diverse birdlife and wildlife such as hippos and elephants.

Hikers will walk along flat paths, enjoying panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.

Take in the serene ambiance of the park while immersing yourself in the beauty of one of Tanzania’s most biodiverse habitats.

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Msasa Loop Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3 miles (4.8 km) with an elevation gain of 328 feet (100 meters)

Description: The Msasa Loop Trail meanders through the diverse habitats of Lake Manyara National Park, including woodlands and grasslands.

Hikers will encounter wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and baboons while enjoying sightings of colorful bird species.

The trail offers gentle ascents and descents, providing opportunities to appreciate the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Enjoy the tranquility of the African wilderness on this scenic hike.

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Maji Moto Hot Springs Trail

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 4 miles (6.4 km) with minimal elevation gain

Description: The Maji Moto Hot Springs Trail leads hikers to the rejuvenating Maji Moto hot springs, nestled amidst the lush vegetation of Lake Manyara National Park.

Hikers will trek through wooded areas and open grasslands, encountering wildlife along the way.

Enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural thermal pools while surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush, making this trail a refreshing retreat for nature lovers.

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Rift Valley Viewpoint Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 5 miles (8 km) with an elevation gain of 656 feet (200 meters)

Description: The Rift Valley Viewpoint Trail offers panoramic vistas of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Manyara from elevated vantage points within the park.

Hikers will trek through diverse landscapes, including acacia woodlands and rocky outcrops, while enjoying sightings of wildlife such as elephants and antelopes.

Marvel at the expansive views of the Rift Valley’s dramatic escarpments and the shimmering waters of Lake Manyara on this scenic hike.

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Endabash River Trail

Rating: Moderate to Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: 6 miles (9.7 km) with an elevation gain of 984 feet (300 meters)

Description: The Endabash River Trail follows the meandering course of the Endabash River through Lake Manyara National Park, offering opportunities to encounter wildlife and explore diverse habitats.

Hikers will traverse through riverine forests and open savannah, encountering elephants, buffaloes, and various bird species along the way.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the African bush while exploring this scenic and wildlife-rich trail.

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