Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is known for its striking beauty, diverse wildlife, and unique features such as tree-climbing lions. Here’s everything you need to know before visiting:
Location and Size
| Location | Size |
|---|---|
| Northern Tanzania, near the Rift Valley escarpment | 325 square kilometers (approx. 125 square miles) |
Lake Manyara National Park is conveniently located along the route to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti, making it a great stop for visitors.
Major Attractions
| Attraction | Details |
|---|---|
| Lake Manyara | A shallow alkaline lake that covers two-thirds of the park, is home to thousands of flamingos and other bird species. |
| Tree-Climbing Lions | One of the few places where lions can be seen lounging in acacia trees. |
| Groundwater Forest | Lush, jungle-like forest near the entrance, home to baboons and elephants. |
| Hot Springs (Maji Moto) | Steaming geothermal springs are located near the edge of the park. |
Wildlife in Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is known for its rich wildlife, including iconic African animals and over 400 species of birds.
| Wildlife | Details |
|---|---|
| Elephants | Often seen in the park’s groundwater forest and open plains. |
| Tree-Climbing Lions | Unique to Lake Manyara, lions can often be seen in trees. |
| Flamingos | Large flocks of flamingos frequent the lake, especially during the wet season. |
| Baboons | Large troops of baboons inhabit the forested areas. |
Activities in Lake Manyara National Park
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Drives | Explore the park’s diverse landscapes and observe wildlife from a vehicle. |
| Bird Watching | With over 400 species, birdwatching is a key attraction. |
| Walking Safaris | Guided walks through the park for a closer view of flora and fauna. |
| Canoeing | Seasonal canoeing on Lake Manyara for a unique perspective of the park. |
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park depends on the wildlife and activities you’re interested in.
| Season | Details |
|---|---|
| Dry Season (June – October) | Best for game viewing as animals gather around water sources and the vegetation is thinner. |
| Wet Season (November – May) | Best for birdwatching, especially flamingos; the park is lush and green. |
Accommodation Options
While there are no accommodations inside the park, several options are available nearby, ranging from budget to luxury lodges.
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Luxury Lodges | Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp |
| Mid-Range Lodges | Kirurumu Manyara Lodge, Manyara Serena Safari Lodge |
| Budget Accommodation | Manyara Campsite, local guesthouses in Mto wa Mbu |
How to Get There
| From | Distance |
|---|---|
| Arusha | 126 km, about a 2-hour drive |
| Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) | 120 km from the park, a 2-hour drive |
| By Road | Easily accessible via the main road to Ngorongoro and Serengeti |
Entrance Fees
| Category | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Foreign Adults | $50 per person per day |
| Foreign Children | $10 per person per day |
| East African Citizens | $10 per person per day |
Lake Manyara National Park is a fantastic destination for those seeking diverse wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and unique attractions like tree-climbing lions and flocks of flamingos. Whether you’re planning a day trip or adding it to a longer safari itinerary, this park offers something for every type of traveler.
Plan your visit today and discover the natural beauty of Lake Manyara!
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