How To Get To Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park spans approximately 330 square kilometers, with the lake covering about two-thirds of the park, roughly 200 square kilometers. The lake is an alkaline body with soda ash, providing a habitat for two million pink flamingo birds. Lake Manyara National Park is a scenic wonderland that offers visitors sweeping views of the Great Rift Valley’s steep and narrow escarpment, as well as expansive acacia woodlands, evergreen forest cover, and short savannah grasslands. These diverse habitats supports a wide variety of animals that visitors can observe while engaging in different activities in the park.
Unlike other safari destinations on this circuit, Lake Manyara National Park is noy as frequently visited. Most safaris on this route to Lake Manyara National Park typically begin from the town of Arusha. however, there are two primary ways to reach Lake Manyara National Park;
By Air
The most convenient method to reach to Lake Manyara is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA). This airport is approximately 46 km from arusha. It is also possible to fly domestically to Arusha Airport (ARK) from Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam.
Alternatively, travelers can take an international flight to Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport and then connect to domestic flight from either JRO or Arusha Airport (ARK). Charter flights are available to Lake Manyara Airport (LKY), which connect from Serengeti or Arusha. From lake manyara Airport, a road transfer of about 16.km (roughly 30 minutes) takes you to the park gate.
Domestic flights can be arranged through local carriers, and often, charter flights between parks are in most cases booked by your tour operator as part of your safari package.
By Road
Travelling by road from Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park covers approximately 126 kilometers (78 miles). The journey is straightforward by car, with the route passing through scenic landscapes. From Bahati, the region capital of Manyara, travelers also find it convenient to reach the park via road. This route is frequently chosen by tourists exploring the northern safari circuit.
The journey along the newly paved road from Arusha to the park typically takes between 1 ½ to 2 hours, making it a manageable day trip. This route also leads towards Ngorongoro crater and the Serengeti National Park, which are popular destinations further along the circuit. Many travelers opt for self-drive options, with companies like Self Drive Tanzania offering reliable vehicle rentals.
For those without private transportation, public buses operate route to Mto wa Mbu village, from where it us possible to hire a car to access the park. The distance between Tarangire National Park to Lake Manyara National Park is approximately 37.4 kilometers, making it feasible to visit both parks in a single trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Tanzanian Safari in Lake Manyara National Park
Best time to get to Lake Manyara National Park
The optimal time to visit Lake Manyara National Park for wildlife viewing is during the dry season, which spans from July to October and then January and February. During these months, roads are generally accessible, making it easier to spot large mammals. In contrast, the rainy season that begins in November to December and March to June is characterized with rains that make the inner roads rather slippery and hard to traverse. Despite the weather, the wet season offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, as the park hosts a diverse array of bird species during this time.
What kinds of animals can I expect to see?
Lake Manyara National Park is reknown for its diverse wildlife. Visitors often see wildebeests, Zebras, Thomson’s gazelle and Grant’s gazelle roaming the plains. The park is also famous for its tree-climbing lions, which are a unique feature of this region and a highlight for many travelers to this stunning national park. Its also a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to hundreds of bird species, including flamingos that sometimes gather along the lake’s shores, creating a spectacular pink-hued landscape. Other animals you might encounter include lion, leopard, black-backed jackal, bat-eared fox, serval, honey badger, African wild cat, spotted hyena, African civet, genet, elephant, baboon, Cape buffalo, lion, hippopotamus, wildebeest, bushbuck, impala, giraffe, zebra, white pelican, yellow-billed stork, Ayres’s hawk-eagle, Nile monitor, white-breasted cormorant, palm-nut vulture and cobra. Cheetah and African golden cat are rarely sighted.
Are there any special wildlife experiences unique to Lake Manyara?
Absolutely. The tree-climbing lions are the most notable feature. Seeing these majestic predators resting or stalking in the branches of acacia trees is an unforgettable sight. Birdwatchers will appreciate the abundance of flamingos, African dim hornbill, African falcon hawk, brush duck, pied kingfisher, pink-backed pelican, von der Decken’s hornbill, pied avocet, and many other birds. The park’s varied habitats, from lakeshores to dense forests to open grasslands, support a wide array of species, offering diverse wildlife encounters in a relatively compact area.
What activities are available during a safari in Lake Manyara?
Game drives are the main activity, typically conducted in open-sided 4×4 vehicle for optimal viewing. Guided walking safaris are possible by prior arrangement with the park authorities, including a hike up to the Marang’ forest via the Iyambi River in the south. Bush meals are allowed in all national parks but they are particularly popular in this national park. Canopy tree walk, Manyara has one of the longest tree canopy walkways in Africa with intermittent viewing decks positioned around the trees on the walk. Under the supervision of a guide, you can enjoy a totally new experience of leafy tree tops, butterflies, birds and monkeys. Night game drives are possible in the park. Birdwatching is another popular activity, especially during the migratory season. Some tours include visits to local villages to learn about the Maasai culture and traditions. Photography enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to capture stunning scenes of wildlife and landscapes.
How long should I spend in Lake Manyara?
A typical visit lasts one to two days. This duration allows enough time for multiple game drives and possibly some birdwatching or cultural experiences. If you’re combining Lake Manyara with other parks like Ngorongoro or Serengeti, you might spend several days exploring the broader region. Keep in mind that the park is small compared to other Tanzanian reserves, so a day or two is sufficient to enjoy its highlights.
What should I pack for a safari in Lake Manyara?
When preparing a safari in Lake Manyara, packing thoughtfully can make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some essential items to consider being along; long-sleeved shirts and pants, sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, sunglasses, a good camera, binocular, insect repellent, personal toiletries, medications, headlamp, water bottle. Don’t forget to move with the travel documents such as passport, visa, park permit, and travel insurance. cash and optimal items such as a travel journal, reading, materials among others.
What should I know about local culture and customs?
Most local communities around lake manyara are Massai tribes, known for their rich cultural heritage and tradition. Visitors often have the opportunity to visit the Maasai villages, where they can learn have opportunities to visit Maasai villages, where they can learn about traditional dances, crafts, and daily life. Tourists will also have a chance to engage in a variety of activities during these interactions, including visiting traditional Maasai homesteads known as “manyattas,” traditional Maasai dance performances, making beaded jewellery such as necklaces, bracelets, and anklets, listening to folk songs and stories, visiting kraals, and learning more about the Maasai people’s nomadic way of life.
Can I combine Lake Manyara with other safaris?
Certainly. Many travelers include Lake Manyara as part of a broader Tanzanian safari itinerary that might also encompass the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, or Lake Eyasi. Combining parks offers a diverse range of landscapes and wildlife, making for a more comprehensive and memorable adventure.