Compact and varied, Lake Manyara squeezes groundwater forest, acacia woodland, hot springs and a soda lake between the Rift Valley escarpment and the water’s edge. It is famous for tree-climbing lions, large troops of baboons, hippos and, in season, huge flocks of flamingos.
Beyond its famous tree-climbing lions, the park supports large troops of baboon, hippo pods in the shallows, and, when water levels are high, thousands of flamingos along the lake’s edge.
Best time to visit
Year-round. Dry season for easier wildlife spotting; wet season for waterfalls on the escarpment and peak birdlife.
How to experience it with us
Perfect as a half-day or full-day stop en route to Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, or as a day trip from Arusha from $280 per person.