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Lake Manyara National Park

A Wildlife Haven Between Rift Valley and Water

Lake Manyara National Park

All About Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is located in northern Tanzania. It’s a stunning blend of lush groundwater forests, expansive grassy floodplains, and the shimmering alkaline waters of Lake Manyara itself. This compact yet diverse park is famed for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and an impressive array of bird species, including the vibrant pink flamingos that gather at the lake’s edge. The park’s varied ecosystems support a remarkable range of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts.

Beyond its incredible wildlife, Lake Manyara National Park offers breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, creating a dramatic backdrop for game drives. The park is also an essential stop for migratory animals and an important breeding ground for various bird species. The surrounding groundwater forest provides a cool, lush retreat, home to troops of baboons, blue monkeys, and other primates. The combination of scenic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique wildlife behavior makes Lake Manyara a captivating and unforgettable safari destination.

The best time to Visit Lake Manyara National Park

When is the Best Time to Visit Lake Manyara National Park?

The best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park depends on the type of experience you seek.

Peak season

Runs from June to October, is the ideal time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around the remaining water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is dry, and the skies are clear, ensuring excellent conditions for game drives.

High season

Goes from December to February, also offers great wildlife sightings, with moderate visitor numbers. This period is ideal for those who want a balance between good animal encounters and fewer crowds compared to the peak season.

Low season

Is from March to May, brings fewer tourists and lush green landscapes due to the long rains. While some roads may become muddy and challenging to navigate, this is the best time for birdwatching, as migratory species arrive, and the park’s vegetation flourishes, providing stunning photographic opportunities.

Lake Manyara National Park Weather and Climate

Weather and Climate in Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park experiences a warm, tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Temperatures remain relatively stable throughout the year, though mornings and evenings can be cooler.

Season Months Temperature Range Weather Conditions
Dry Season June – October 20°C – 30°C (68°F – 86°F) Clear skies, minimal rainfall, excellent for wildlife viewing
Short Rains November – December 22°C – 27°C (72°F – 81°F) Light rains, lush vegetation, fewer crowds
Wet Season March – May 22°C – 27°C (72°F – 81°F) Heavy rainfall, green landscapes, best for birdwatching

How to Get to Lake Manyara National Park

Ways to Travel to Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is easily accessible by both road and air.

By road: From Arusha it’s approximately 126 km (78 miles) and taking about two hours. The journey offers a scenic drive through small villages and picturesque landscapes before reaching the park entrance. Many safari packages include Lake Manyara as part of Tanzania’s northern circuit, alongside Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro.

By air:  Domestic flights from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Dar es Salaam land at the Lake Manyara Airstrip, which is located just a short drive from the park’s main gate. Several local airlines operate daily flights, making it an accessible destination for travelers on a tight schedule.

Google Map of Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park Map Showing its location

The below Lake Manyara National Park Map shows the exact location. Expand it to see more details, surrounds, and directions of where you could be coming from, to help you access it easier and better.

Lake Manyara National Park Fees Entrance

Park Fee Entrance to Lake Manyara National Park

The park entrance fees vary depending on nationality and age category.

Visitor Category Fee (USD) per Adult Fee (USD) per Child (5-15 years)
East African Citizens $5 $2
Foreign Residents $30 $10
International Tourists $59 $18

Visitors must pay park fees through official channels designated by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA). Payments can be made via credit/debit cards, mobile money, or bank transfers.

To pay online, visitors should access the TANAPA website or visit the official payment portal. Once on the platform, they need to enter their details, select Lake Manyara National Park, and indicate the number of visitors in their group. The system generates a unique payment reference number, which must be used when completing the transaction via mobile money services such as M-Pesa, credit/debit card, or direct bank transfer. After successful payment, a confirmation message or email is sent, which must be presented at the park entrance for verification before admission.

For those paying on arrival, the park gates are equipped with POS machines to facilitate payments via cards. However, carrying some cash (preferably in Tanzanian shillings or US dollars) is advisable in case of network issues that may affect card transactions.

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