With the Lake on its east and the Manyara Escarpment to its west, the Lake Manyara National Park offers breathtaking views and a large variety of habitats supporting an array of wildlife. Manyara has the largest concentration of baboons anywhere in the world and the lions here are also renowned for their tree climbing.

This article will review everything you need to know about this sometimes-forgotten national park, which offers a lot in terms of experience and uniqueness. It is an unspoiled paradise, with more than half of its surface submerged in water. The special ecosystem, the lush vegetation and the abundance of water, make this park a source of diversity unrivaled by other African national parks.

Where Is Lake Manyara National Park Located?

This smaller, but still very important national park is situated just between Ngorongoro and the Tarangire National park, in the northern regions of Tanzania. It is approximately 2 hours-drive south Arusha and despite the size of its neighboring parks, Lake Manyara National Park is a gem.

What Makes Lake Manyara National Park Unique?

As already mentioned, the density of wildlife and vegetation makes the park unique. Still, several other characteristics make a visit to this national park worth it.

The park hosts different ecosystems that create such a diverse environment. From arid lands to the stunning salt lake to lush forests and lush woodlands, despite the smaller surface compared to the major African National parks, Lake Manyara has no reason for envying them. The park ranks above the Serengeti in terms of diversity, which is quite an achievement!

The extended lake which gives the park its name attracts several species of birds and creates the perfect oasis for wildlife. More than four hundred species of birds come to the park’s waters during the wet season. You’ll be able to spot plenty of flamingos, pelicans but also hippos in the shallow waters and elephants, zebras or antelopes around the shore of the lake. The most impressive view, however, might be that of hundreds of pink flamingoes in waters of the lake, contrasting with the beautiful green of the vegetation and the blue of the sky, which makes it for breath-taking scenery and great shots.

Additionally, one of the most special features of this impressive national park is made of its tree-climbing lions, a rare sight that can only be found at Lake Manyara and Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. The lions climb the trees to avoid tsetse flies and other bugs, but also to enjoy the cooler breeze and get an extended view of the surroundings while spotting potential preys. Usually, tree-climbing lions tend to choose trees that are short and stout, easy to climb and quickly jump out of if needed. Take a look at tree branches, you’ll never know, you might find some lions hanging out!

Because Laka Manyara is a lesser-known safari destination, it means that the atmosphere in the park will be more quite. Forget about the lines to get to the park early in the morning, at Lake Manyara National Park, you’ll be able to fully appreciate your safari and spot plenty of animals.

Lake Manyara also is home to the only Walkway in Tanzania. While it is dangerous to leave your car (and you shouldn’t do so) at most spots in national parks, at Lake Manyara you can walk through the “Treetop Walkway”. You won’t have it guaranteed to see animals during your walk, but it is still a fantastic opportunity to get out of the car after many hours of driving and fully immerse yourself in the stunning nature around you.