Lake Manyara National Park
forest, lake & the rift wall
From groundwater forest to alkaline lake, from tree‑climbing lions to flocks of flamingos — a park of contrasts at the base of the Great Rift Valley.
Euphorbia tirucalli · Emanyara
The park takes its name from the Maasai word *Emanyara*, for the Euphorbia tirucalli plant used to protect their bomas (hedges). Gazetted as a National Park in 1960, it was declared a Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1981.
Climate & seasons
Short rains
November – December
Long rains
February – May
Dry season
Late June – October
Groundwater forest
From the entrance gate, the road winds through lush jungle‑like forest. Baboon troops lounge nonchalantly; blue monkeys scamper between ancient mahogany trees; bushbuck tread warily; outsized forest hornbills honk in the high canopy.
Floodplain & lake
In contrast with the intimacy of the forest, the grassy floodplain offers expansive views eastward across the alkaline lake to the jagged blue volcanic peaks of the Maasai Steppe. Large buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, and giraffes (some so dark they appear black) congregate here. Flamingos often colour the lake's edges.
Tree‑climbing lions
Manyara is famous for its lions that lounge in acacia branches — a rare behaviour seen in only a few parks in Africa. Leopards also rest in the trees, while hyenas patrol the floodplains.
Essential information
📍 Location & access
Northern Tanzania. The entrance gate lies 1.5 hours (126km/80 miles) west of Arusha along a newly surfaced road, close to the town of Mto wa Mbu. By road, charter or scheduled flight from Arusha, en route to Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
🏕️ Accommodation
One luxury treehouse‑style camp, public bandas and campsites inside the park. One luxury tented camp and three lodges perched on the Rift Wall outside, overlooking the lake. Several guesthouses and campsites in nearby Mto wa Mbu.
Discover Lake Manyara
we'll reply within 24 hours