Lake Manyara National Park is a stunning wildlife destination located in northern Tanzania, on the edge of the Great Rift Valley. Known for its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking views, Lake Manyara is one of Tanzania’s most popular national parks. The park’s proximity to other renowned attractions, like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, makes it a key stop for travelers exploring the northern safari circuit.
Location and Size
- Location: Lake Manyara National Park is situated about 130 kilometers (80 miles) west of Arusha, Tanzania, on the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. It’s located near the town of Mto wa Mbu and is often visited in conjunction with nearby attractions like Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.
- Size: The park covers approximately 330 square kilometers (127 square miles), with around two-thirds of its area being covered by the lake itself, depending on the water level, which fluctuates seasonally.
History and Establishment
- Founded: Lake Manyara was established as a national park in 1960, becoming one of Tanzania’s first national parks.
- Historical Significance: The park is named after Lake Manyara, a shallow, alkaline lake that occupies a large portion of the park. It’s known for its birdlife, and the park’s diversity and accessibility make it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
Landscape and Terrain
- Topography: The park is characterized by a unique combination of landscapes, from the lush tropical forests of the escarpment to savannah grasslands, woodlands, and the beautiful lake itself. The Great Rift Valley escarpment provides dramatic views, and the park’s varied ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife.
- Rivers and Watering Holes: The Mto wa Mbu River and other small streams feed the lake and provide vital water sources for the wildlife in the park, particularly during the dry season. Many animals congregate around the waterholes for drinking.
- Climate: Lake Manyara has a tropical climate with a long dry season from June to October, which makes it a good time for game viewing. The wet season (November to May) brings lush vegetation, but the park can be more difficult to navigate due to rainfall.
Wildlife
Lake Manyara National Park is renowned for its diverse range of wildlife, from the famous tree-climbing lions to a rich variety of bird species. Visitors can expect to see both large mammals and smaller creatures in the park’s varied ecosystems.
- The Big Five: While not home to all of the Big Five, the park has elephants, buffaloes, and lions, with rare sightings of leopards. Rhinos are not typically found in the park, though they can be seen in nearby Ngorongoro Crater.
- Tree-Climbing Lions: Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior in which lions climb trees to escape the heat, avoid biting insects, and get a better view of their surroundings. The behavior is often spotted in the park’s acacia trees.
- Other Wildlife: The park is home to an impressive range of animals including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, baboons, and impalas. The varied landscapes offer a range of habitats for different species.
- Birdlife: Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded. The lake itself attracts large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and cormorants, while the surrounding forests and grasslands are home to a variety of raptors, hornbills, and herons.
- Rare Species: In addition to the famous tree-climbing lions, the park is home to some rarer species, such as the yellow baboon, vervet monkeys, and sacred ibises.
Attractions
- Lake Manyara: The park’s namesake lake is a stunning sight, especially when large flocks of flamingos gather on its shores. The lake’s vibrant pink hue, combined with the surrounding scenery, makes it a picturesque and tranquil spot.
- Tree-Climbing Lions: One of the most iconic features of Lake Manyara is its population of tree-climbing lions. Observing these lions perched in the acacia trees is a rare and fascinating sight.
- The Great Rift Valley Escarpment: The park is situated at the base of the escarpment, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and the lake below.
- Bird Watching: The wide variety of bird species makes the park a fantastic destination for birdwatching, especially along the lake’s shores and in the park’s woodlands.
Activities
- Game Drives: The primary activity in Lake Manyara is game viewing, and visitors can enjoy both morning and afternoon safaris to explore the park’s diverse wildlife. The park’s compact size makes it easy to see a variety of animals in one day.
- Bird Watching: With over 400 species of birds, Lake Manyara is one of the best spots in East Africa for birdwatching. Visitors can enjoy sightings of flamingos, hornbills, eagles, and other exotic species.
- Nature Walks: Guided walks are available, allowing guests to get closer to the park’s flora and fauna and learn more about the unique ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.
- Cultural Tours: Visitors can engage with the nearby Mto wa Mbu village, where they can learn about the local culture and traditions. The area is home to various ethnic groups, including the Chagga and Makonde tribes.
Accommodation
There are several accommodation options near Lake Manyara National Park, offering a range of experiences from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites:
- Luxury Lodges: High-end lodges like Lake Manyara Tree Lodge and Manyara Ranch Conservancy offer luxurious accommodations, often in stunning locations with panoramic views of the park and the lake.
- Mid-Range Lodges: Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge and Ngorongoro Farmhouse provide comfortable accommodations with great access to the park’s attractions.
- Camping: For those seeking a more adventurous experience, there are campsites available within and around the park, offering an authentic African safari experience.
How to Get There
- By Road: Lake Manyara National Park is easily accessible by road from Arusha (approximately 2 hours) or Ngorongoro Crater (about 1.5 hours). The park is located along the main safari route in northern Tanzania, making it convenient to visit as part of a longer safari itinerary.
- By Air: The nearest airstrip to the park is the Lake Manyara Airstrip, which is serviced by small aircraft from Arusha or Serengeti. From the airstrip, it’s a short drive to the park’s entrance.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (June to October): The best time to visit Lake Manyara is during the dry season when wildlife gathers around water sources, making game viewing easier. The weather is cooler, and the park’s roads are more accessible.
- Rainy Season (November to May): Although the wet season can make some areas harder to navigate, the park is lush and green, and it’s a fantastic time for birdwatching, as migratory birds are abundant.
Conservation and Challenges
Lake Manyara faces typical conservation challenges, including human-wildlife conflict and habitat destruction. However, the park’s status as a protected area, coupled with active conservation efforts, ensures the protection of its wildlife and ecosystems. Sustainable tourism is encouraged to ensure the park’s long-term viability.
Conclusion
Lake Manyara National Park is a remarkable destination, offering a combination of lush landscapes, rich wildlife, and unique attractions. Whether you’re interested in spotting tree-climbing lions, observing flamingos, or simply enjoying the spectacular scenery, Lake Manyara promises an unforgettable safari experience. With its diverse ecosystems and ease of access, it’s an essential stop on any northern Tanzania safari.
