Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is a captivating gem that offers a diverse range of wildlife and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and safari adventurers. This unique park covers an area of approximately 330 square kilometers, and its striking landscape includes a soda lake, dense forests, and the dramatic wall of the Great Rift Valley, creating a rich and varied environment that’s home to a wide array of flora and fauna.

One of the park’s most remarkable features is Lake Manyara itself, a shimmering alkaline lake that changes in size throughout the year due to fluctuating water levels. The lake provides a stunning backdrop and an essential source of nourishment for the park’s inhabitants, including a diverse bird population. Birdwatchers will be thrilled to know that Lake Manyara National Park is a designated Ramsar Wetland, making it a birding paradise with over 700 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and the elusive fish eagle.

The park’s lush groundwater forest, nestled along the base of the escarpment, adds to its allure. Here, you’ll find troops of Olive Baboons, Blue Monkeys, and the endangered Sykes’ Monkey, which are often seen leaping through the branches. The park’s rich vegetation also serves as a vital habitat for large mammals, including herds of African elephants, as well as giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes.

Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions. This peculiar behavior, where lions ascend to the branches of acacia trees, is a unique and fascinating sight. It’s believed that the lions climb the trees to escape the heat and avoid pesky insect bites, providing excellent photo opportunities and a thrilling experience for safari-goers.

Exploring the park can be done through a network of well-maintained tracks and trails, making it accessible for game drives and guided canopy tours. While wildlife is a major draw, the park is also a treasure trove of botanical diversity. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of plant species, including mahogany trees, fig trees, and the ubiquitous acacia trees.

This national park is an all-season destination, but the dry season (June to October) is ideal for game viewing, as animals tend to congregate around water sources.