Lake Manyara National Park

A game drive in Lake Manyara

Game drives start in the groundwater forest near the gate, where troops of olive baboons and blue monkeys are common, before opening onto woodland and the lake shore. Elephants, buffalo, giraffe and hippos are regularly seen, and the lake draws flamingos and pelicans when water levels suit them.

Manyara's lions are known for sometimes resting in trees. Sightings are occasional rather than guaranteed.

Where you stay

Budget itineraries use Fanaka Campsite, which also serves Tarangire. Midrange and luxury trips are quoted with lodges near Mto wa Mbu or in the Karatu highlands.

Fitting Lake Manyara into a safari

The park lies on the road from Arusha to the Ngorongoro Crater, so it works well as a half-day stop on a northern circuit safari.