What Makes Lake Manyara Worth Visiting?

1. Spectacular Variety of Landscapes

Few parks in Africa offer such diverse terrain in such a small area. As you enter the park, you’re immediately greeted by a dense groundwater forest with towering fig, mahogany, and acacia trees—lush and green even during the dry season. This cool, shaded area gives way to wide-open grasslands, rocky escarpments, marshes, and eventually the shimmering expanse of Lake Manyara itself.

The Great Rift Valley escarpment forms a stunning backdrop to the park, rising steeply on the western edge. This dramatic scenery creates excellent photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.

2. Tree-Climbing Lions: A Rare Behavior

Lake Manyara is one of the few places in the world where lions are known to climb trees and rest on the branches. While the exact reason for this behavior remains debated—ranging from avoiding insects to escaping the midday heat—it remains a unique and iconic feature of the park. Spotting a lion draped across an acacia branch is one of the highlights for any visitor and a dream come true for wildlife photographers.

3. Incredible Birdwatching Opportunities

With over 400 recorded bird species, Lake Manyara is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The alkaline waters of the lake attract thousands of pink flamingos, especially during the wet season, creating a breathtaking sight. Other water birds like pelicans, storks, spoonbills, and cormorants are also common.

Inland areas of the park host a range of forest and savannah birds, including hornbills, kingfishers, crowned eagles, and the rare silvery-cheeked hornbill. Migratory birds from Europe and Asia arrive between November and April, making this period ideal for ornithologists.

4. Diverse Wildlife in a Compact Area

Despite its relatively small size, Lake Manyara National Park is home to a wide array of animals, including:

• Elephants: Once overpopulated, conservation efforts have allowed the elephant population to stabilize. They are often seen feeding in the forest.

• Hippos: Found in large numbers in the lake and hippo pools.

• Giraffes, Zebras, Wildebeests & Buffaloes: Commonly seen grazing in the open areas.

• Primates: The park is famous for its huge troops of olive baboons, often numbering in the hundreds, as well as blue monkeys and vervet monkeys.

• Leopards, hyenas, and mongoose are also present, though more elusive.

5. Maji Moto Hot Springs – A Natural Wonder

Deep within the park is Maji Moto, a natural hot spring that bubbles up from underground geothermal sources. The turquoise waters are crystal clear, and the site is surrounded by palm trees and fig groves. Although swimming is not allowed due to potential dangers, the area is a peaceful spot for a break or picnic during a game drive.

6. Cultural Encounters in Mto wa Mbu

Just outside the park’s northern gate lies Mto wa Mbu, a bustling and multicultural town where over 120 Tanzanian tribes live side by side. Visitors can engage in community-based tourism activities such as:

• Village walks and bike rides

• Visiting local markets and banana plantations

• Traditional food tastings

• Art and wood carving workshops

These experiences offer an authentic glimpse into the daily lives and cultural richness of the region, adding depth to your safari.