S K Y S A F A R I
Rift Valley Treasure

Where the Forest Meets the Lake

Lake Manyara National Park is a stunning gem nestled at the foot of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, vast flocks of flamingos, and lush groundwater forests that create a unique and diverse ecosystem.

The alkaline lake itself covers about two-thirds of the park, attracting thousands of flamingos and other waterbirds. The park's varied habitats — from the lake and wetlands to the forest and open savannah — support an incredible array of wildlife.

Whether you're watching elephants wade through the shallow lake, searching for lions resting in the branches of acacia trees, or simply soaking in the dramatic views of the Rift Valley, Lake Manyara is a destination that captivates and inspires.

330 km²

Park area

400+

Bird species

Tree-climbing

Lions in acacia trees

UNESCO

Biosphere Reserve

What You'll See

Wildlife of Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara offers a rich diversity of wildlife in a compact area, with unique behaviours like tree-climbing lions and spectacular birdlife.

Tree-Climbing Lions

Rare lions resting in acacia trees

Flamingos

Thousands of pink flamingos on the lake

Groundwater Forest

Lush forest with monkeys and bushbuck

Rich Birdlife

Over 400 species, including pelicans and storks

Ways to Explore

Lake Manyara Experiences

Game Drives

Explore the park's diverse habitats on game drives through the groundwater forest, along the lake shore, and across the open savannah.

Birdwatching

Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher's paradise with over 400 species. Spot flamingos, pelicans, crowned cranes, and many migratory birds.

Scenic Views

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, the shimmering lake, and the surrounding landscapes from the park's viewpoints.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, but birdwatching is best during the wet season when migratory species are present.

  • June – October: Dry season, excellent game viewing, large animal concentrations near water sources
  • November – February: Green season, lush landscapes, migratory birds, perfect for birdwatching
  • March – May: Long rains, vibrant greenery, fewer visitors, excellent for photography
  • July – August: Peak flamingo season on the lake
Lake Manyara through the seasons
Experience Lake Manyara

Suggested Tours

Classic Tanzania Safari
Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Ngorongoro

Classic Tanzania Safari

Combine Lake Manyara with Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater for a varied safari experience showcasing northern Tanzania's diversity.

7–10 Days

Tailor-made

Birding Safari
Lake Manyara, Tarangire

Birding Safari

Explore the rich birdlife of Lake Manyara and Tarangire with expert guides, spotting flamingos, pelicans, and hundreds of other species.

5–8 Days

Tailor-made

Family Safari
Lake Manyara, Tarangire

Family Safari

Enjoy a family-friendly adventure with flexible pacing, child-friendly activities, and comfortable accommodation near Lake Manyara.

5–7 Days

Tailor-made

Start Your Lake Manyara Journey

Ready to discover Lake Manyara?

Tell us what you'd like to see and experience, and our Tanzania-based team will create a Lake Manyara safari shaped around your interests, travel dates, and style.

Follow Sky Safari Tours

Follow the journey for safari moments, Zanzibar sunsets, Kilimanjaro adventures, and travel inspiration from Tanzania.

Wildlife encounter
Serengeti landscape
Zanzibar beach
Mount Kilimanjaro
Safari experience
Tanzania sunset