Top Safari Activities in Lake Manyara National Park
1. Game Drives (Day & Night Safaris)
The park offers both daytime and nocturnal game drives, making it one of the few Tanzanian parks where night safaris are permitted. During the day, drive through verdant groundwater forests filled with blue monkeys, olive baboons, and bushbucks, then transition into the acacia woodlands where elephants, giraffes, and the park’s iconic tree-climbing lions reside.
At night, the park transforms. Night game drives offer a rare chance to see nocturnal predators in action—lions on the hunt, leopards, genets, and civets, alongside other secretive creatures like porcupines and bush babies. This thrilling experience brings a whole new dimension to the safari adventure.
2. Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway
The Treetop Walkway is a unique canopy walk and one of the first of its kind in Tanzania. Elevated up to 18 meters above the forest floor and stretching for 370 meters, it provides a bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy, offering an excellent vantage point for spotting primates and forest birds. Expert guides accompany you, sharing insights about the flora and fauna around you.
3. Wildlife Photography & Filming
With its varied ecosystems and exceptional light, Lake Manyara is a photographer’s paradise. From the pink hues of flamingos to the striking silhouettes of baobab trees, this park offers countless opportunities for breathtaking wildlife and landscape shots. Many safari operators offer customized photographic safaris, complete with specialized vehicles and knowledgeable guides to position you for the best shots.
4. Bird Watching
Lake Manyara is a birding hotspot, boasting over 400 recorded bird species. Highlights include migratory birds from Eurasia, flocks of lesser and greater flamingos, pelicans, storks, herons, and the iconic African fish eagle. Even novice birders can expect to tick off over 100 species in a single day. The seasonal movement of birds between Lake Natron and Lake Manyara enhances its birding appeal, especially during the wet season.
5. Canoeing Safaris (Seasonal)
When lake water levels permit, canoe safaris provide a peaceful and immersive way to explore the park. Glide quietly across the water, past groups of hippos, and observe wildlife like buffalo and elephants as they come to drink along the shores.
6. Cultural Encounters & Cycling
Located near the culturally vibrant town of Mto wa Mbu, visitors can engage in cultural tours to interact with Maasai communities, visit local markets, or enjoy a biking safari through the surrounding villages and landscapes. These add an enriching human element to the traditional safari.
7. Camping Under the Stars
Lake Manyara offers exceptional camping experiences, from public campsites to more exclusive fly-camping setups. Set your tent near the lake and enjoy evening campfires, starry skies, and the sounds of the African wilderness at night—an unforgettable way to connect with nature.
