Manyara

Flamingos and tree climbing lions

Lake Manyara National Park is a diverse and picturesque wildlife reserve located in northern Tanzania. Covering approximately 330 square kilometers (127 square miles), the park is known for its stunning scenery, including the alkaline Lake Manyara, lush rainforests, and open grasslands. It’s famous for its large flocks of flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and a rich variety of bird species. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, bird watching, and scenic drives, making it a popular stop for visitors exploring Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.

Birding paradise

Lake Manyara National Park is a captivating wildlife reserve located in northern Tanzania, near the town of Mto wa Mbu and roughly halfway between Arusha and the Serengeti. Here’s a more detailed overview:

1. Size and Landscape: The park covers about 330 square kilometers (127 square miles) and is situated along the western escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. It features a range of landscapes, including the lush rainforest along the park’s northern edge, open grasslands, and the expansive, shallow Lake Manyara, which dominates the park’s central area.
2. Wildlife: Lake Manyara is known for its diverse wildlife. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior observed in this region. It is also home to large herds of elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes. The park’s diverse habitats support a rich birdlife, including thousands of flamingos that flock to the lake, as well as other species like pelicans and herons.
3. Bird Watching: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded. The alkaline waters of Lake Manyara attract large numbers of migratory birds and resident species.
4. Scenic Features: Lake Manyara’s picturesque setting includes dramatic views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the lake itself, which changes in color and size depending on the season and water levels.
5. Activities: Visitors to Lake Manyara National Park can enjoy game drives, which offer opportunities to see a wide range of wildlife. The park also provides guided walking safaris and canoe safaris on the lake, though the latter are subject to seasonal water levels and park regulations.
6. Conservation: The park plays a crucial role in conserving its unique ecosystems and the diverse species that inhabit them. Efforts are ongoing to protect the park’s natural resources and wildlife.

Lake Manyara National Park is often included in Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, providing a rich contrast to the more famous Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, and is valued for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife.