Tanzania · Safari Guide

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park – Tanzania’s Scenic Safari Gem

Introduction

About Lake Manyara National Park

Described by Ernest Hemingway as “the loveliest I had seen in Africa,” Lake Manyara National Park is a small but breathtaking wildlife sanctuary in northern Tanzania. Nestled at the base of the Rift Valley escarpment, the park stretches for nearly 50 kilometres, encompassing evergreen forests, open savannahs, and shimmering marshlands surrounding its iconic soda lake.

Often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours, Lake Manyara is a hidden gem with one of the highest concentrations of large mammals in Africa. While many travellers visit on a quick day trip along the Northern Circuit, those who stay longer are richly rewarded with intimate wildlife encounters.

The park is home to majestic elephants, Maasai giraffes, zebras, gazelles, and hippos, along with the rare and fascinating tree-climbing lions. Along the lakeshore, visitors are treated to the sight of thousands of flamingos and more than 400 bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Explore the park’s lush forests where blue monkeys and playful baboons roam or journey south to the sulphur hot springs, where mineral-rich waters bubble to the surface. Whether you’re captivated by its diverse landscapes or its prolific wildlife, Lake Manyara offers an unforgettable safari experience.

Want to see why Hemingway was so enchanted? Browse our Tanzania safaris featuring Lake Manyara National Parkand let us craft your perfect journey.

Curated Safaris

Lake Manyara National Park Safaris & Tours

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

From $714 per person sharing

View lodge
Getting There

How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park

Planning your arrival
The Vencha way

Your travel designer arranges domestic flights, airstrip transfers and every detail of your journey — so you simply arrive.

Speak to a specialist
Seasons & Timing

Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park rewards travellers year-round; the months our safari designers most often recommend are highlighted below. Share your dates and we'll fine-tune the timing for wildlife, weather and value.

Jan January Good
Feb February Good
Mar March Green
Apr April Green
May May Green
Jun June Good
Jul July Peak
Aug August Peak
Sep September Peak
Oct October Peak
Nov November Green
Dec December Green
Peak — prime wildlife & weather Good — great value, fewer crowds Green season — lush & quiet, lowest rates
Simple & personal

How it works

  1. 1
    Describe your dream trip

    Where, when and how you love to travel — as much or as little as you know.

  2. 2
    We craft it around you

    A specialist who knows these places firsthand curates your itinerary.

  3. 3
    Confirm & start packing

    Refine it together until every day feels right — then we handle the rest.