Lake Manyara is a small alkaline lake whose northwest portion is protected by the Lake Manyara National Park. It is located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. The lake occupies a large portion of the 330 km2 park, but one of the great surprises for visitors is the extraordinarily diverse range of terrestrial ecosystems, including forest, wetland, floodplain, and acacia woodland, which in turn supports an equally astonishing range of wildlife.

A Lake Manyara safari will immediately draw your attention to the abundant birdlife. Nearly 400 species have been identified here, making it a great and convenient introduction to the birds of East Africa. Highlights with feathers include several raptors and sizable flamingo flocks.

Lake Manyara National Park, a crucial component of the Tanzania safari experience, shouldn’t be disregarded in the haste to see its more well-known neighbors, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. It makes a restful, breath-taking layover for a day or two because it is practically down the road from the town of Arusha, which serves as Tanzania’s entry and exit point for the “northern safari circuit.”

The visitor is in store for more surprises. Along with buffalo, antelope, zebra, and giraffe, Lake Manyara is also home to an increasing number of elephants, and the park’s lions have acquired the curious habit of climbing trees. While boat tours will take you in search of snorting hippo pods and lounging crocodiles, the park is home to the elusive leopard.

Although Lake Manyara is a stop on the majority of Tanzania safari itineraries all year round, the greatest game watching months are December to February and May to July. Both inside and outside the park, there are superb luxury lodging options, giving guests the chance to explore by 4X4, canoe, motorboat, mountain bike, and even on foot.