Lake Manyara was established in 1960 as a National Park with an area of 330 km 2, and in 1981, UNESCO declared it a Biosphere Reserve. It is the 7th largest lake in Tanzania by surface area. It is a shallow and alkaline lake of 231 km 2 with a length of 50 km and a width of 16 km. It is considered a home for wildlife.
The park is located in northern Tanzania, a 2-hour drive (120 km) from Arusha and just a few steps from the Mto wa Mmbu area. This area is famous for its inhabitants; there are more than 120 tribes living in the Mto wa Mmbu area, including the Maasai, Iraq, Mangati, Chagga, and Mbugwe tribes, among others.
There are different explanations for how Lake Mayara got its name from the tribes around the park. The name is said to come from the Maasai word” many,” which “h means farm or house (“bom.” An “other meaning may come from the word”many “”” from” the Mbugwe tribe, which means the place where animals drink water.
A VERY SPECIAL SAFARI
We organize safaris in the Lake Manyara National Park of Tanzania for those who want to live a wild experience in a diversified habitat with a forest area, the wall of the Rift Valley that crosses the park to its alkaline lake.
Going on a safari in Lake Manyara is a fascinating adventure. It is famous for being the ideal place to observe unusual tree-climbing lions.
The park has many animals throughout the year. There is a large concentration of elephants, giraffes, and troops of hundreds of baboons deworming each other. It will surely be the first thing you see when entering the park.
Different species of primates appear in the forest, such as:
- the green cercopiteco (tumbili)
- gray langur
- the colobus monkeyGmonkeyGarnet’ssby.
We will see wildebeest, zebra, and antelope in the open plains of fresh grass.
We will find”Maji “t” ( ho” springs ), a large swampy area on the western shores of Lake Manyara National Park. This geothermal area is formed by hot (60ºC) underground water that passes through the volcanic magma rocks of the Great Rift Valley. ! It is said that an egg can be boiled in just a few minutes!
It is allowed to walk around the area and explore this incredible phenomenon and its unique views. A walkway crosses the swamp, from which you can see a beautiful view of the lake and water birds such as flamingos, pelicans, and the water horse (hippo).
Lake Manyara National Park is the best place to watch birds, primates, and tree-climbing lions.
Check our itineraries for the North circuit and visit Lake Manyara with us.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LAKE MANYARA
Observing wildlife in Lake Manyara National Park is incredible throughout the year. Still, the best time is undoubtedly from late May or early June to October, when the tremendous dry season begins.
The park retains its great beauty during the wet season. During the short rainy season (November and the first half of December) and the long rainy season (from early March to early May), large groups of elephants, troops of baboons, lots of vegetation, and beautiful waterfalls are observed. These make our visit to Lake Manyara worthwhile.
Our packages contain itineraries that will take you to this beautiful park.
You can also customize your safari in Tanzania and visit Manyara National Park.
The park retains its great beauty during the wet season. In the short rainy season (November and the first half of December) and the long rainy season (from March to May), large groups of elephants, troops of baboons, lots of vegetation, and beautiful waterfalls are observed. These make our visit to Lake Manyara worthwhile.
Our packages contain itineraries that will take you to this beautiful park.
You can also customize your safari in Tanzania and visit Lake Manyara National Park.
TheParkThePark’ss Geography
Lake Manyara National Park – A Location Like No Other
Lake Manyara National Park offers a unique geographical setting at the base of the Great Rift Valley. The park encompasses a variety of habitats, including the alkaline Lake Manyara itself, the dense groundwater forest, and the dramatic cliffs of the Rift Valley escarpment.
A Diverse Wildlife Haven
Exploring LakeManLakeManyara’sscal Wonders
The park’s flora includes woodlands, grassy floodplains, and abundant acacia trees. Among the most fascinating features is the groundwater forest, home to a canopy of ancient mahogany and fig trees. BirdwatBirdwatcher’sse
LakeManLakeManyara’ssSpectacle
With over 400 bird species, Lake Manyara National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Flamingos, pelicans, and storks are commonly spotted along the lake’s lakes, creating a second-to-none visual spectacle.
Mammals Galore
Witnessing the Big and Small
LakeManLakeManyara’siodiversity includes elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. But the park is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, a unique behavior observed in these big cats.
Maasai Culture
Meeting the Indigenous Inhabitants
The Maasai people inhabit the region surrounding Lake Manyara National Park. Engaging with their culture and learning about their traditional way of life is a unique and enriching experience.
Preserving the Ecosystem
LakeManLakeManyara’ssment to Conservation
The park’s management actively conserves and protects the ecosystem, including its vital groundwater forest and the diverse wildlife it supports. Learn about the park’s management efforts and contribution to preserving Tanzania’s heritage.
Planning Your Trip
Tips and Tricks for a Memorable Visit
Before embarking on your journey to Lake Manyara, it is essential to plan your trip effectively. This section provides practical advice and suggestions for making the most of your visit.
Activities and Safari Options
Exploring the Park to the Fullest
Lake Manyara offers tourists various activities and safari options, each providing a unique perspective on the park’s beauty.
Conclusion
Unveiling the Natural Wonders
Lake Manyara National Park is a unique gem in TanzaniTanzania. It offers a breathtaking blend of diverse wildlife, enchanting flora, and cultural richness. Whether you are an avid birdwatcher, a wildlife enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, this park has something to offer everyone.INature thrives here, and the Maasai heritage perseveres, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
Get ready to be captivated by the wonders of Lake Manyara National Park.
FAQs
- How do I get to Lake Manyara National Park?
- The park is accessible by road, and guided tours are available from Arusha, the nearest major city.
- Are there accommodations within the park?
- Yes, the park offers lodges and campsites for visitors.
- Is it safe to visit Lake Manyara National Park?
- Yes, the park is generally safe for tourists, but it’s essential to follow the guidelines of park authorities and your tour operator, Great Image Expedition.
- What should I pack for a trip to Lake Manyara?
- Be sure to pack comfortable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, and binoculars for wildlife and bird watching.
You will be taken care of by the best experts in the sector, who will welcome you to the remarkable experience in Tanzania.
