Short safari
3-Day Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Manyara Safari
First-time visitors with limited time who want elephants, the Crater and a lake in three days.
from $590
per person, 2 sharing
Destination
Lake Manyara National Park
Forest, flamingos and a lake below the escarpment
Lake Manyara National Park lies beneath the Rift Valley escarpment and combines groundwater forest, acacia woodland and an alkaline lake. It is small and varied, with baboon troops, elephants, hippos and a reputation for tree-climbing lions, and it works well as a shorter game drive on the way to Ngorongoro or the Serengeti.
- From Arusha
- About 2–2.5 hours by road
- Best for
- Varied scenery, birds, a relaxed half-day game drive
- Best time
- Year-round; flamingo numbers vary with water levels
- Status
- National park
What stands out
- Forest, woodland and lakeshore habitats in one short drive
- Large baboon troops, elephants, giraffes and hippos
- Flocks of flamingos and pelicans when conditions suit
- Views across the lake from the escarpment road
Animals you may see
Elephant Baboon Hippo Giraffe Buffalo Blue monkey Flamingo Pelican Lion
Nothing is guaranteed, but your guide knows where to look and when.
When to go
The park is enjoyable in all months. The green season brings lush forest and good birding; the dry season concentrates wildlife near the lake and the forest.
Trips
Safaris that include Lake Manyara
Classic safari
6-Day Complete Northern Circuit Safari
Travellers who want all four classic northern parks at an unhurried pace.
from $1,240
per person, 2 sharing
Safari + beach
9-Day Safari & Zanzibar Beach Escape
Couples and families who want the bush first and a beach to finish.
from $1,950
per person, 2 sharing
Nearby
Other parks
