Lake Manyara National Park – A Biodiversity Haven Beneath the Rift Valley

Lake Manyara National Park derives its name from the Euphorbia tirucalli plant, locally called Emanyara by the Maasai people, who traditionally use it to fence their bomas (homesteads). Officially gazetted as a national park in 1960, it was later designated a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1981. The park spans 648.7 km² (402 sq miles), with Lake Manyara itself covering 262.7 km² and the remaining 386 km² comprising dry land.

The park enjoys a bi-modal rainfall pattern: short rains from November to December and long rains from February to May. The dry season, ideal for wildlife viewing, lasts from late June to October. The annual mean temperature hovers around 26.5°C, with average lows of 11.3°C and humidity ranging between 45% and 85%.

Location & Accessibility

Lake Manyara is situated in northern Tanzania, approximately 126 km west of Arusha. It lies along the well-travelled route to Ngorongoro and Serengeti, making it an essential stopover. The park is easily accessible by both road and air (via charter or scheduled flights), and is near Mto wa Mbu—a culturally rich town that is home to representatives of all 120 Tanzanian tribes.

🌿 Best Time to Visit
June to October: Best for viewing large mammals

November to July: Ideal for birdwatching

The park is open year-round and offers unique experiences in every season.

Activities in Lake Manyara National Park

🚗 Game Drives
Day Game Drives: From 06:30 to 18:30 hrs, no extra fee.

Night Game Drives: From 19:00 to 23:00 hrs, requires additional ranger-guided booking and fees. Highlights include sightings of civets, porcupines, lions, hippos, owls, and nightjars.

🚶 Walking Safaris
Short Walks (1–4 hours) and Long Walks (4+ hours) available.

Msasa Trail: River gorge to rift valley wall (2–3 hrs)

Lake Shore Trail: Up to 6 hrs, offers scenic beauty

Armed ranger accompaniment is mandatory and included in additional fees.