LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK

Lake Manyara National Park is home to a variety of wildlife. Here is a list of some of the key animal species found in this park:

• Tree-Climbing Lions: Known for their unusual behavior of climbing trees, these lions are a rare and intriguing sight in the park.
• Elephants: The park hosts a significant population of elephants, renowned for their gentle and approachable nature.
• Hippos: These large mammals are commonly found in the waters of Lake Manyara, providing an exciting spectacle for visitors.
• Flamingos: The alkaline lake attracts thousands of flamingos, especially during the wet season, creating a stunning pink panorama.
• Buffaloes: Robust and powerful, buffaloes are a common sight, often seen grazing in the grasslands or near water bodies.
• Zebras: Their distinctive stripes make them a favorite among visitors, and they are often spotted in herds throughout the park.
• Wildebeest: These animals, known for their migratory patterns, are also residents of Lake Manyara, contributing to the park’s dynamic ecosystem.
• Baboons: Large troops of baboons are a common and entertaining sight, particularly around the park’s forests and water sources.
• Warthogs: With their distinctive tusks and playful nature, warthogs add a unique charm to the park’s wildlife diversity.
• Impalas: These elegant antelopes are widely distributed across the park, known for their agility and grace.
• Giraffes: These tall and graceful animals are frequently seen browsing the high branches of trees in the park.
• Diverse Bird Species: Beyond flamingos, the park is a haven for birdwatchers with over 400 species recorded, including pelicans, storks, and many passerines.

Lake Manyara National Park experiences a climate that, like much of northern Tanzania, is marked by distinct wet and dry seasons.

Dry Season (June to October)

• Climate Overview: During these months, the park experiences a dry climate with minimal rainfall. The skies are typically clear, offering sunny days ideal for wildlife exploration.
• Temperature Range: The temperatures during the day are generally pleasant, averaging between 75°F and 85°F (24°C to 29°C). However, temperatures can occasionally spike to around 90°F (32°C). The evenings and early mornings are cooler, with temperatures often dropping to between 55°F and 60°F (13°C to 16°C). The coolest months within this season are often June and July.
• Impact on Wildlife: The scarcity of water during the dry season draws animals to Lake Manyara and other remaining water sources, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings. This is a particularly good time to observe animals such as elephants, giraffes, and various bird species congregating near the water.

  Wet Season (November to May)

  • Climate Characteristics: This period is split into two phases: the ‘short rains’ occurring between November and December, and the ‘long rains’ from March to May. Rainfall during this season typically arrives in short, heavy bursts, often in the late afternoon or evening.
  • Temperature Details: The wet season sees cooler daytime temperatures, usually in the range of 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). The cloud cover associated with the rainy season tends to keep night temperatures slightly higher than during the dry season, generally staying between 60°F and 65°F (16°C to 18°C).
  • Wildlife and Vegetation: The rains transform Lake Manyara National Park into a vibrant and lush habitat. This season is particularly favorable for bird enthusiasts, as the park becomes a breeding ground for various bird species and attracts migratory birds. While the dense vegetation may make some wildlife less visible, the scenic beauty of the park is at its peak, with flourishing flora and active fauna.

Generally, the dry season, spanning from June to October, is considered the best time to visit Lake Manyara for wildlife viewing. During these months, the sparse vegetation and limited water sources compel animals to congregate around Lake Manyara and other accessible water bodies, making them easier to spot. This period is also marked by clear skies, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures. However, for those interested in bird watching and enjoying the lush scenery, the wet season, particularly from November to December and March to May, presents a park teeming with birdlife and vibrant green landscapes. Each season in Lake Manyara has its own charm, making it a year-round destination for different safari experiences.

The Lake Manyara National Park entrance fee is $59 for non-resident adults and $18 for non-resident children. This is valid for 24 hours but only permits one entry, so you'll need to pay the fee again if you leave and re-enter the park. If you plan to stay overnight, you'll need to pay an additional $47.20 for non-resident adults and $12 for non-resident children per night.

Like most other spots on the northern Tanzania safari circuit, Lake Manyara National Park is best accessed from Arusha. In the majority of cases, it's easiest to start your trip by flying to Kilimanjaro International Airport. From here, you can reach Arusha in approximately one hour by car, with a further 90-minute drive needed to get to Lake Manyara National Park. This is by far the most popular route but there are also some alternative options available to you. To cut down on travel time over land, it's possible to take a domestic flight to Arusha Airport from either Kilimanjaro International Airport. Furthermore, some safari packages will include an additional flight to Lake Manyara Airport, which is usually limited to chartered planes.