Ready for Your Tree-Climbing Lion Adventure?
Book your Lake Manyara safari today
Lake Manyara National Park
Tree-Climbing Lions & Flamingo Shores
- Wildlife Safari
- Day Trip
- Birdwatcher's Paradise
From - $350
Overview
Lake Manyara National Park is a breathtaking wildlife sanctuary at the base of the Rift Valley escarpment. Famous for its tree-climbing lions, vast flamingo flocks, and lush groundwater forest, this compact park packs incredible biodiversity into a small area. The alkaline lake covers two-thirds of the park, creating spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities just two hours from Arusha.
- Duration: Full-day (8-10 hours)
- Group Size: Private or small groups (2-6)
- Best For: Wildlife lovers & birdwatchers
- Departure: Arusha or Karatu hotels
- Vehicle: 4x4 safari jeep with pop-up roof
- Tree-climbing lions (park's unique specialty)
- Massive elephant herds in groundwater forest
- Thousands of pink flamingos on the lake
- Over 400 bird species including hornbills
- Large troops of baboons and blue monkeys
- Pickup: 6:00 AM from your hotel
- Pack: Binoculars, camera, neutral colors
- Included: Park fees, lunch, guide, water
- Vehicle: Charging ports & cool box
Dry Season (June-October)
Best wildlife viewing as animals gather near the lake. Excellent flamingo sightings.
Green Season (November-May)
Lush landscapes and migratory birds, with fewer crowds.
- Round-trip transportation from Arusha/Karatu
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- All national park fees and taxes
- Picnic lunch with bottled water
- Use of binoculars (upon request)
- Park entry and game drive in 4x4 vehicle
Enhance your experience with these add-ons:
- Sunrise Start - Early departure for best wildlife activity
- Photography Guide - Expert assistance capturing wildlife
- Extended Safari - Combine with Tarangire for 2-day adventure
FULL DAY SAFARI ITINERARY
01
06:00 AM - Depart from Arusha/Karatu
Morning Start: Early departure to catch wildlife at peak activity. Scenic drive through the Rift Valley.
Highlights:
- Hotel pickup with briefing
- Stop at viewpoint overlooking the park
- Introduction to the region's geology
02
08:00 AM - Enter Park & Forest Drive
Wildlife Search: Explore the groundwater forest for tree-climbing lions and elephants.
Discover:
- Search for lions in acacia trees
- Elephant herds in the forest
- Blue monkey and baboon troops
- Learn about unique forest ecosystem
03
10:00 AM - Lakeshore Exploration
Lake Focus: Drive along the lake edge for flamingos and hippos.
Experience:
- Thousands of flamingos feeding
- Hippo pools viewing
- Birdwatching opportunities
- Learn about lake ecology
04
12:30 PM - Picnic Lunch
Lunch Break: Enjoy meals at scenic spot with lake views.
Includes:
- Fresh picnic lunch
- Wildlife viewing during break
- Relaxation time to soak in the views
- Tea/coffee service
05
01:30 PM - Afternoon Game Drive
Continued Exploration: Search for leopards and other wildlife in varied habitats.
Areas Covered:
- Acacia woodlands
- Open plains
- Scenic viewpoints
- Possible lion sightings
06
04:00 PM - Return Journey
Departure: Drive back to your hotel after an exciting safari day.
Arrival:
- Approx 6:00 PM drop-off
- Photo review with guide
- Farewell from your guide
- Wildlife checklist provided
