Trip Info
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4X4 Landcruiser
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Available
Overview
On the edge of the Rift Valley, Lake Manyara National Park is small, but its diverse eco-systems pack in a huge variety of animal and birdlife. It is rightly famous for its tree-climbing lions, but also for its boisterous baboons.
Itinerary
06:00 AM – Pick-up from Arusha/Moshi
Your guide will pick you up from your hotel or agreed meeting point in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle.
Briefing about the day’s schedule and expectations.
Begin the 2-hour drive to Lake Manyara National Park, passing through picturesque landscapes and local villages.
08:00 AM – Arrival at Lake Manyara National Park Gate
Complete park entry formalities.
Introduction to the park’s unique ecosystem and wildlife by your guide.
08:30 AM – Morning Game Drive
Start exploring the park’s varied habitats, including groundwater forests, open savannahs, and the alkaline lake.
Look out for wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and the famous tree-climbing lions.
The lake is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with flamingos, pelicans, storks, and over 400 other bird species.
12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a packed lunch at a designated picnic site, often with stunning views of the park or the Rift Valley.
Relax and soak in the serene environment.
01:30 PM – Afternoon Game Drive
Continue your exploration, focusing on the lake’s edge where waterbirds congregate and hippos lounge.
Learn about the park’s unique flora and fauna from your guide.
03:30 PM – Begin Drive Back to Arusha/Moshi
Exit the park and embark on the return journey.
Stop at a local curio shop (optional) for souvenirs or cultural artifacts.
05:30 PM – Drop-off at Your Hotel
Arrive back at your accommodation in Arusha/Moshi.
End of the day trip with memories of an extraordinary adventure.
Notes
Early booking is recommended to ensure availability.
This itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted to accommodate special requests.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Professional English-speaking safari guide/driver.
- Transport in a private 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing.
- Park entrance fees.
- Picnic lunch and bottled water.
- Binoculars and field guides available in the vehicle.
Cost Excludes
- Travel insurance.
- Tips and gratuities for your guide/driver.
- Personal items such as souvenirs.
FAQs
Lake Manyara National Park is approximately 130 kilometers (about 2 hours’ drive) west of Arusha. It’s a common day-trip destination from both Arusha and the Ngorongoro Crater.
The park can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October), as animals tend to gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. However, the green season (November to May) can be great for birdwatching, as migratory birds flock to the park.
The park is home to a variety of animals, including:
- Tree-climbing lions (famous in the area), Elephants, Giraffes, Zebras, Baboons, Various antelopes (impalas, gazelles), Hippos
- Numerous species of birds, especially flamingos (in the wet season)
On a day trip, you can enjoy:
- Game drives: The most popular activity, where you can explore the park and observe wildlife.
- Birdwatching: Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially for viewing flamingos, pelicans, and other species.
- Nature walks: A guided walking safari with a park ranger can be arranged to explore the park’s ecosystems more closely.
- Cultural visits: Some tours may include stops at nearby Maasai villages to learn about local culture.
For a day trip, make sure to bring:
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing and birdwatching
- A camera for photos
- Comfortable clothing for warm weather and outdoor activities (light, neutral-colored clothes are ideal)
- Hats and sunglasses for sun protection
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Water and snacks (if not provided by the tour)
- A light jacket in case it gets cooler in the morning or evening
Yes, Lake Manyara is generally considered safe for tourists. However, always follow the instructions of your guide and park rangers, especially regarding wildlife encounters. Ensure you’re with a licensed guide or operator for added safety and compliance with park rules.
It is possible to visit Lake Manyara and other nearby parks (like Ngorongoro Crater or Tarangire) on the same day, but it can be a very busy and long day. Most people prefer to visit one park per day to fully enjoy the experience. If you’re planning a multi-park visit, it’s better to space out the visits over multiple days for a more relaxed trip.
