Africa · Tanzania
Lake Manyara National Park
A compact jewel of the Northern Circuit — famous for tree-climbing lions, flamingo flocks, and groundwater forests spilling from the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
About Lake Manyara National Park
Despite covering just 330 km², Lake Manyara National Park packs extraordinary diversity into a small space. The soda lake at its heart attracts flamingos by the thousand, while the groundwater forest beneath the Rift Valley escarpment is home to habituated baboon troops, hippos, and the park's famously photogenic tree-climbing lions. The park serves as an excellent first stop on the Northern Circuit, combining perfectly with Tarangire, the Serengeti, and Ngorongoro.
Highlights
- Tree-climbing lions (rare behaviour)
- Flamingo flocks on the soda lake
- Groundwater forest walks
- Hippo pools
- Great Rift Valley escarpment views
Best Time to Visit
Year-round park; June–September for tree-climbing lions and predator activity. November–April for peak flamingo numbers.
Weather & Seasons
Lake Manyara sits at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. The park receives moderate rainfall channelled from the escarpment and is accessible year-round, though lake levels and flamingo populations vary with rainfall.
Dry Season
Jun – Oct
Best for game drives and tree-climbing lion sightings. Animals concentrate around the lake shore.
Warm Dry Season
Jan – Feb
Hot and dry with excellent wildlife. Flamingo numbers peak on the lake during this period.
Short Rains
Nov – Dec
Migratory birds arrive. Lush green forest and some afternoon showers.
Long Rains
Mar – May
Heavy rains make some tracks difficult. The park is lush and birding is exceptional.
Gallery
Tours and lodges for this destination are coming soon.