EXPLORE
Lake Manyara
TANZANIA’S TREE-CLIMBING LIONS
A compact park of remarkable diversity, where a soda lake, groundwater forest and open grassland meet beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
Small Park, Remarkable Diversity
Lake Manyara National Park – Tanzania
The Lake Manyara National Park sits beneath the dramatic escarpment of the Great Rift Valley in Tanzania’s Arusha Region. Though compact, it packs remarkable diversity into a small area, from groundwater forest to open grassland and the alkaline waters of Lake Manyara itself.
The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior seen in few places in Africa, along with large elephant herds and, in the right season, thousands of flamingos gathered along the lake shore. Its varied habitats make it one of the northern circuit’s best birding destinations.
Park fees and current park regulations are published by Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA).
Why Visit Lake Manyara?
Tree-Climbing Lions
A rare behavior found in only a handful of African parks.
Flamingo Flocks
Thousands gather along the lake in the right season.
Groundwater Forest
Lush, shaded habitat unlike anywhere else in the region.
Large Elephant Herds
Healthy populations roam the park’s varied terrain.
Rift Valley Views
Dramatic escarpment scenery framing the lake.
Rich Birdlife
Over 400 recorded bird species across diverse habitats.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season
Flamingo Season
Long Rains
Peak Season
WILDLIFE
Meet the Lake Manyara Wildlife
From the Big Five to the smallest creatures, Lake Manyara is home to an extraordinary variety of wildlife.