A compact, scenic park beneath the Rift Valley escarpment — a lake famous for flamingos, a groundwater forest full of primates, and one of the few places in Africa where lions are known to climb trees.
Lake Manyara packs a surprising range of habitat into a small footprint: dense groundwater forest, open grassland, the alkaline lake itself and the dramatic backdrop of the Rift Valley wall. It's best known for the local pride's unusual habit of resting in acacia trees, and the flocks of flamingo that gather along the shoreline in good years.
The local pride's habit of lounging in acacia branches is unusual enough that Manyara built its reputation on it.
Lush, spring-fed forest supports large troops of baboon and blue monkey close to the park entrance.
Flamingos, pelicans and storks gather along the alkaline lake shore in season.
Dry season (June-October and January-February) brings water levels down and concentrates birdlife along the shrinking shoreline — the best time for flamingos specifically. The park is a popular half-day or full-day add-on to a longer Northern Circuit itinerary.
This destination can stand alone or combine with other parks, Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar into one seamless itinerary. Tell us your dates and travel style for a personalized quote.
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