Lake Manyara National Park

Located on the edge of the Rift Valley lies the lovely Lake Manyara National Park. This is one of Tanzania’s smaller national park, but incredible diverse. Almost two-third of the park is underwater which attracts pelicans, flamingos, hippos and so many more animals. Apart from the beautiful scenery and birdlife, Lake Manyara is also known for troops of baboons, herds of elephants and tree-climbing lions.

From woodland to Great Rift Valley

While Lake Manyara may be much smaller than most other parks in northern Tanzania, the flora and fauna is incredible diverse. From acacia woodland and swamps to a huge soda lake, grassland and the steep ridges of the Great Rift Valley. The forest is the perfect place to see herds of elephants, troops of baboons and lions climbing in trees, resting on the branches. On the grassy shores of the lake you can spot giraffes, warthogs, wildebeest and zebras. Moreover, the shallow pools in the north and south of the lake are home to grunting hippos, who like to wallow in the water all day.

Birding hotspot

As with the vegetation, birdlife in Lake Manyara is remarkably varied. More than 500 species of birds are recorded here including the superb starling, yellow lovebirds, lilac breasted roller and the kori bustard. One of the best places to see enormous flocks of flamingos is Lake Manyara. These pink-hued birds thrive in the alkaline lakes of the Rift Valley, as well as pelicans and storks. The green forests are the place to see other bird species like the silvery-cheeked hornbills, crested guinea fowl and crowned eagles. This park is a real birding hotspot.

Contact us for more information or to book a safari including Lake Manyara.

Check also our Travel Tips:

10 Tanzania nature records

7 Awe-inspiring things to do in Tanzania

Safari Tanzania & Zanzibar