Lake Manyara National Park

Location

Lake Manyara National Park is located in the Rift Valley area of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. It lies 78 miles south-west of Arusha, 34 miles from the Ngorongoro Crater, and around 130 miles from the famous Serengeti National Park.

Size

Lake Manyara National Park covers around 125 square miles, of which Lake Manyara itself makes up 89 square miles.

History

Formerly a sport hunting destination visited as far back as the 1920s, the Lake Manyara Game Reserve was established in 1957 and later designated as a national park around 1960.

Entrance Fees & Permits

With proof of identity required upon entry, the entrance fee into Lake Manyara National Park is USD 52 per adult and USD 17.70 per child under 12 years of age, valid for a 24-hour period.

Hours of Operation

The entry gates of Lake Manyara National Park are open daily between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

How to Get There

By Road

Visitors can enter through either the southern or northern gate. The distance from Arusha is approximately 78 miles, a 90-minute drive on recently tarred roads.

By Air

Most visitors arriving in Arusha or Kilimanjaro choose to drive to Lake Manyara National Park. However, chartered flights are available to Lake Manyara Airstrip, followed by a 10-mile (30-minute) road transfer to the park.

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

The park experiences mild weather, with a dry season from June to early October—ideal for game viewing due to low grass. Wet months from December to May provide lush conditions perfect for birdwatching and flamingo sightings.

Avoiding Crowds

Visit during the green season between November and January, just before the long rains of March to May, to enjoy fewer crowds and a peaceful experience.

Value for Money

Lake Manyara offers a range of accommodations from comfortable lodges to luxury stays. Its convenient location between Arusha and Ngorongoro Crater makes it ideal for a one-night stay or as part of a longer journey through Tanzania’s Northern Circuit.

Wildlife and Landscape

Popular Wildlife Sightings

Wildlife sightings in Lake Manyara National Park include zebras, giraffes, vervet monkeys, and large elephant herds. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions and brilliant pink flamingos. Hippos can be seen in the lake, and night drives may reveal nocturnal animals such as porcupines, civets, and genets.

The Terrain

Lake Manyara’s cool waters make up two-thirds of the park. The rest of the landscape features a mix of grasslands, floodplains, woodlands, and rugged mountain escarpments.

Experiences

Game Drives

Enjoy game drives in enclosed 4×4 vehicles, with some lodges offering open-vehicle options. Spot tree-climbing lions, zebras, elephants, and the stunning spectacle of flamingos on the lake. Night drives offer the chance to see hippos on land and elusive nocturnal creatures.

Guided Walking Safaris

Explore on foot with guided walks along the Msara and Lyamba River Trails. Discover the 370-meter treetop walkway composed of suspension bridges, offering scenic views and unique bird and wildlife encounters among the trees.

Experience the wonders of Lake Manyara National Park with Adventure In The Wild Safaris—your expert safari partner for unforgettable adventures in Tanzania.