Lake Manyara National Park Tanzania

The Groundwater Forest

Upon entering the park, one is immediately greeted by the lush groundwater forest, a verdant jungle fed by springs emanating from the escarpment. This forest is home to towering fig and mahogany trees, providing a cool canopy for the wildlife below. Troops of baboons and blue monkeys are common sights here, as are bushbucks and hornbills. The dense foliage offers a refreshing contrast to the more open and arid regions of the park.

The Lake and its Shores

The centerpiece of the park is the shallow, alkaline Lake Manyara itself. During the wet season, the lake expands and attracts thousands of flamingos to its shores, creating a spectacular pink hue that is a photographer’s dream. Pelicans, storks, and a wide variety of other waterfowl can also be seen wading in the shallows or soaring above the water. In the dry season, as the lake recedes, it leaves behind exposed salt flats that are frequented by large herds of grazing animals such as wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle.

Acacia Woodland and Savannah

Beyond the lake lies the acacia woodland and open grasslands, where the legendary tree-climbing lions of Manyara can be spotted. These majestic predators are known for their unusual behavior of lounging in the branches of trees, a rare sight in the wild. The grassy floodplains and savannahs are also prime territory for giraffes, elephants, and hippos, which can be seen roaming and bathing in their natural habitats.

Cultural Encounters and Activities

Lake Manyara National Park is not only about wildlife. The area is rich in cultural history, with several local tribes, including the Maasai and the Barabaig, living in the vicinity. Visitors can engage with these communities, learn about their traditional ways of life, and even participate in cultural activities that offer insight into their daily routines and customs.

For those looking for a bit of adventure, the park offers night safaris, guided nature walks, and canoeing when water levels permit. These activities provide unique perspectives of the park and opportunities to encounter nocturnal animals or enjoy the tranquility of the lake.

Game Drives : Game drives are the primary way to explore Lake Manyara National Park. Guided tours in 4×4 vehicles traverse the variety of landscapes, offering ample opportunities to view wildlife and take in the stunning scenery. Morning drives are ideal for catching predators in action, while afternoon drives often result in large animal sightings as they gather around water sources.

Night Game Drives: For a different perspective, night game drives are available and provide a chance to observe nocturnal creatures and the behaviors of animals under the cover of darkness. It’s an exhilarating experience to hear the sounds of the African night while searching for the shining eyes of predators on the prowl.

Canoeing: When water levels are high enough, canoeing on Lake Manyara offers a tranquil and intimate way to experience the park. Gliding across the water, you’ll have a water-level view of the birds and wildlife that come to the lake’s edge to drink and feed.

Cultural Tours: Beyond the wildlife, Lake Manyara National Park is surrounded by rich cultural heritage. Visitors can engage with local communities and learn about the Maasai and other indigenous tribes’ way of life. Cultural tours often include visits to nearby villages, schools, and markets, providing insight into the daily lives of the Tanzanian people.

Treetop Walkway: For a unique view of the park, take a walk on the Treetop Walkway. This suspended bridge system takes you through the forest canopy, allowing for close-up encounters with the diverse birdlife and a panoramic view of the forest below.