Lake Manyara Safari Guide
Lake Manyara, near Arusha, is famed for flamingos, lush forests, and rare tree-climbing lions—making it a stunning safari gem.
Most visitors come for Serengeti and Ngorongoro—but Lake Manyara offers a serene, richly diverse safari experience less than two hours from Arusha. This hidden gem charms with its flamingo-fringed lake, groundwater forest, elephants, and rare tree-climbing lions. Perfect for photographers, first-timers, and those short on time.
Why Choose a Lake Manyara Safari?
Despite its small size, Lake Manyara National Park is full of wildlife and lush scenery, all packed into a compact area:
- Tree-climbing lions perched above the ground
- Elephant herds roaming forest and plains
- Baboons and blue monkeys in abundant trees
- Thousands of flamingos shimmering pink on the lake
- Leopards, giraffes, buffalo, hippos and more
Wildlife Encounters: Small Park, Big Game
This small park packs big safari moments—with abundant opportunities for close wildlife sightings and photography without the crowds.
Elephants moving through the waters in the lake manayara.
Ideal for First-Time Safari Goers or Short Stays
For UK and US travellers short on time, Lake Manyara is ideal—only a two-hour drive from Arusha and commonly included in 5–7 day Northern Circuit itineraries.
- Gentle introduction to safari—perfect for families and couples
- Seamless connection to Ngorongoro or Serengeti next
- Relatively compact, crowd-free wildlife watching
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
- Dry Season (June–October): Best game viewing; animals gather at watering holes.
- Wet Season (November–May): Lush scenery, spectacular birding, fewer tourists.
- UK/US winter escape (Dec–Mar): Green landscapes and vibrant skies — ideal for photos.
a lion on a tree having rest.
Suggested Itinerary Featuring Lake Manyara
- Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – start your adventure
- Day 2: Lake Manyara Safari – tree-climbing lions, birdlife & forest
- Day 3: Mto wa Mbu cultural tour – local life and market visit
- Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater – wildlife-rich crater experience
- Day 5: Return to Arusha or continue safari at Serengeti
Where to Stay Near Lake Manyara
- Lake Manyara Tree Lodge – Luxury nestled in the forest canopy
- Manyara Serena Safari Lodge – Spectacular Rift Valley panoramas
- Escarpment Luxury Lodge – Elevated views and serene ambience
Lake Manyara Safari from the UK or USA
Maramatta Safaris custom-designs itineraries for international travellers. From international flight arrivals to cross-park transfers, we handle all logistics. Add Lake Manyara as a standalone safari or combine it with Serengeti, Tarangire, or Zanzibar for a full Tanzanian journey.
Final Thoughts
If you're after a lesser-known yet unforgettable Tanzanian safari, Lake Manyara delivers. With its vibrant landscapes, birdwatching, tree-climbing lions, and gentle safari pace, it's a destination that wows. Let Maramatta Safaris design your perfect Manyara adventure.
🌍 Quick Lake Manyara Safari Tips
- Book early in dry season for better wildlife visibility
- Bring binoculars and camera – birds & lions are best seen from distance
- Stay at tree lodge for immersive experience
- Combine Manyara with Ngorongoro for varied wildlife habitats
