Lake Manyara National Park
A narrow strip of forest, grassland and lake beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Lake Manyara is small, but it packs a lot into a half day.
What Lake Manyara is like
You enter through a groundwater forest of tall fig and mahogany trees, fed by springs from the escarpment. Troops of baboons and blue monkeys move through it, and elephants feed in the shade.
Further in, the forest opens into grassland and the shore of the lake, where hippos, buffaloes, giraffes and many water birds live. In some years flamingos gather on the lake in large numbers. The park is known for lions that climb trees, but they're seen far less often than the stories suggest.
Is it worth it?
Lake Manyara is on the road from Arusha to Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, so it's easy to add as a half day. It works well if you've seen Tarangire already, love birds, or want something different from the open plains. On a short trip, Tarangire usually gives you more wildlife.
When to go
The dry season, June to October, is best for larger animals. The wet season is great for birds and the park is at its greenest.
Where to stay
Most lodges are on the escarpment above the park or in Mto wa Mbu village, with great views over the lake. Many guests stay in Karatu instead and visit Manyara on the way.
