Home to thousands of
pink-hued flamingos
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is located in northern Tanzania, near the town of Mto wa Mbu and about 126 kilometers southwest of Arusha town. The park covers an area of 330 square kilometers and is known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
One of the unique features of Lake Manyara National Park is its namesake lake, which is a shallow alkaline lake that covers much of the park’s area. The lake is home to a variety of waterbirds, including thousands of pink-hued flamingos, pelicans, and storks. Visitors can take guided boat tours of the lake to get a closer look at the birds and other wildlife that live in and around it.
In addition to the lake, Lake Manyara National Park is also known for its tree-climbing lions, which are a rare and unique sight. The park is home to several troops of baboons and other primates, as well as large herds of elephants, buffalo, and giraffes. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded within its borders.
Another unique feature of Lake Manyara National Park is its stunning landscapes, which range from lush forests to open grasslands and rocky escarpments. Visitors can take scenic drives and guided walks to explore the park’s different ecosystems and take in the panoramic views.
Overall, Lake Manyara National Park offers a unique combination of wildlife, landscapes, and birdwatching opportunities that make it a must-visit destination for tourists to Tanzania. Its tree-climbing lions and flamingo-filled lake are particularly unique and unforgettable attractions.
Lake Manyara National Park can be accessed by road and by air.
By road, the park is approximately a 2-hour drive from Arusha, which is a major city in northern Tanzania. Visitors can either rent a car and drive themselves or hire a driver and vehicle. There are also several tour companies that offer guided tours of the park as part of a larger itinerary.
By air, visitors can fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, which is located near Arusha, and then take a connecting flight to Lake Manyara Airport, which is located near the park. Several domestic airlines offer daily flights to Lake Manyara Airport from Kilimanjaro International Airport or Dar es Salaam.
Once inside the park, visitors can explore the park by taking guided game drives, walking safaris, or boating tours. It is important to note that some areas of the park are inaccessible during the rainy season, which typically runs from March to May and from November to December, so visitors should plan their trip accordingly.