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Elephants and flamingos on the shore of Lake Manyara beneath the Rift Valley escarpment

Beneath the Great Rift Valley

Lake Manyara National Park

A compact and beautiful park of groundwater forest, grassland and soda lake beneath the Rift Valley escarpment.

Lake Manyara is a compact yet ecologically diverse park along the dramatic Great Rift Valley escarpment. Few parks pack so many different landscapes into such a small area, from shady groundwater forest to open grassland and the shimmering shores of the alkaline lake.

What to expect

Manyara is famous for its rare tree-climbing lions, often seen resting on acacia branches. The lake shore attracts flamingos and many other bird species, while elephants, baboons, blue monkeys, giraffes, zebras, hippos and buffalo are all commonly seen.

Most safaris spend a half or full day here on the way between Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Highlands. Sunset from a lodge on the escarpment, looking out over the lake, is a highlight of any trip.

Lions resting on the branches of a large tree
Lions resting on the branches of a large tree
Flamingos in the shallows of Lake Manyara
Flamingos in the shallows of Lake Manyara
The forested escarpment above Lake Manyara
The forested escarpment above Lake Manyara

Safaris that visit Lake Manyara

Lake Manyara: common questions

Do lions really climb trees at Lake Manyara?

Yes. Manyara is famous for lions that rest on acacia branches, though sightings are never guaranteed. Your guide will know the trees they favour.

Is Lake Manyara worth a stop?

Yes, particularly if you enjoy birds or varied scenery. It is on the road between Tarangire and Ngorongoro, so it is easy to include and adds real variety to a safari.

Add Lake Manyara to your safari

It sits right on the road to Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. We will fit it into your route.

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