Tucked beneath the dramatic wall of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park packs remarkable variety into a small area. Lush groundwater forest, open floodplain and the alkaline lake itself create a surprising range of habitats within a single game drive.
The park is known for its lions, which are sometimes seen resting in the branches of acacia trees, as well as large troops of baboons, elephants, giraffes and hippos. The lake’s shallow waters attract flamingos, pelicans and hundreds of other bird species, especially in the wetter months.
Just a short drive from Arusha and on the road to Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara is an easy and beautiful addition to any northern Tanzania itinerary.