Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park, located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment in northern Tanzania, is a small but incredibly diverse park known for its breathtaking scenery and rich wildlife. Covering about 330 square kilometers, with nearly two-thirds of the park submerged by the shallow, alkaline Lake Manyara, it offers a unique blend of ecosystems, from dense groundwater forests and open grasslands to swamps and the shimmering lake itself.

The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large troops of baboons, and impressive flocks of flamingos that gather along the lakeshore. Visitors can also encounter elephants, giraffes, hippos, buffalos, and a wide variety of birdlife — making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.

Lake Manyara National Park offers more than just game drives; activities such as walking safaris, canoeing (when water levels permit), and cultural visits to nearby villages add extra layers to the experience. Its compact size allows for rewarding exploration in just a day, making it a perfect addition to a northern Tanzania safari circuit.