DAY TRIP TO LAKE MANYARA
Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park is a scenic gem that offers a microcosm of the Tanzanian safari experience. Despite being one of the smaller parks in the Northern Circuit, it is incredibly diverse, with a unique ecosystem that ranges from lush groundwater forests to acacia woodlands and the vast, shimmering soda lake itself. A day trip to Lake Manyara promises a compact yet unforgettable adventure, packed with unique wildlife sightings and breathtaking landscapes.
Why Choose a Day Trip to Lake Manyara?
A day trip to Lake Manyara is the perfect choice for travelers with limited time or those looking to add a diverse and exciting experience to a longer safari itinerary. It’s easily accessible from Arusha and offers a fantastic opportunity to see:
- The famous tree-climbing lions: Lake Manyara is one of the few places in Africa where lions regularly climb trees, a behavior that remains a fascinating mystery to researchers.
- The largest concentration of baboons in the world: You’ll encounter large, social troops of baboons, providing endless entertainment as they interact.
- An incredible array of birdlife: With over 400 recorded species, the park is a paradise for birdwatchers. The highlight is undoubtedly the massive flocks of pink-hued flamingos that gather on the lake’s shores.
- Diverse landscapes: From the dense “underground water forest” to the open grasslands and the stunning Rift Valley escarpment, the scenery is a photographer’s dream.
- Large mammals: The park is home to a high concentration of elephants, as well as zebras, giraffes, buffalo, wildebeest, and various antelopes.
Lake Manyara Day Trip Itinerary
7:30 AM: Departure from Arusha/Moshi
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi. You’ll travel in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing and photography. The scenic drive to Lake Manyara National Park takes approximately 2-2.5 hours, offering glimpses of local life and the stunning Tanzanian landscape.
10:00 AM: Arrival and Morning Game Drive
Upon arrival at the park gate, your guide will handle the registration process. You’ll then begin your game drive, starting with the park’s lush groundwater forest. This dense, tropical-like area is a haven for blue monkeys, a variety of birds, and provides a stark contrast to the open plains. Keep a lookout for elephants, often found feasting on the abundant vegetation.
1:00 PM: Picnic Lunch with a View
After an exciting morning of wildlife spotting, you’ll find a designated picnic spot with a stunning view of the lake. Enjoy a delicious packed lunch and take a moment to soak in the incredible natural surroundings. This is a chance to relax, listen to the sounds of the African bush, and reflect on the morning’s sightings.
2:00 PM: Afternoon Game Drive
Refreshed and ready for more, you’ll continue your game drive. This is often the best time to head toward the open grasslands and the lakeshore. Here, you’ll search for the iconic tree-climbing lions resting in the acacia trees. The wide-open plains are also perfect for spotting large herds of wildebeest and zebra, as well as giraffes and buffalo.
The afternoon is also the best time to see the thousands of flamingos that adorn the alkaline lake’s edge, creating a breathtaking pink spectacle. Your guide will navigate to the best vantage points for birdwatching and photography, where you might also spot pelicans, cormorants, and storks.
4:30 PM: Optional Activities or Final Game Drive
Depending on your preference and time, you can choose to continue your game drive or add on an optional activity for a different perspective.
- Treetop Walkway: Experience the forest canopy from a different angle on Tanzania’s first treetop walkway. This suspended bridge offers a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife and a unique perspective on the park’s flora and fauna.
- Canoeing Safari: During the wet season when water levels are high, you can opt for a peaceful canoeing safari on the lake itself. This offers an incredible opportunity to get up close to hippos and waterbirds.
5:30 PM: Departure from the Park
As the sun begins to set, you’ll start your journey out of the park, taking in the final views of the Rift Valley.
7:30 PM: Return to Arusha/Moshi
You will be dropped off at your hotel, filled with memories of a day well spent in one of Tanzania’s most captivating national parks.