What do you know about Lake Manyara National Park?

What do you know about Lake Manyara National Park?

Nestled at the base of the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park, though among the more diminutive of Tanzania’s national reserves, offers an enchanting tapestry of ecological diversity and natural splendor. This verdant sanctuary stands as a striking contrast to the predominantly savannah- dominated parks of the region. Renowned for its lush groundwater forests and the elusive tree-climbing lions, Lake Manyara is predominantly celebrated for its substantial elephant population, which constitutes the park’s primary draw.

Wildlife & Animal Diversity

Lake Manyara National Park is distinguished by its impressive elephant population, which commands considerable attention from visitors. While the park is heralded for its tree-climbing lions, these majestic predators are notoriously difficult to spot. The park’s diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife, including habituated troops of olive baboons and blue monkeys that inhabit the verdant forest patch near the park entrance. Additionally, the park is home to a variety of ungulates such as buffalo, giraffe, and several species of antelope, which are frequently encountered during drives.

The park’s vast grassy plains witness the congregation of large herds of buffalo, wildebeest, and zebra, creating a spectacle of life and movement. The lake, a seasonal haven for vast flocks of flamingos, supports a broad spectrum of water-associated avifauna. Among the highlights are the impressively tusked elephants and the park’s renowned tree-climbing lions, whose presence adds an element of intrigue to the wildlife experience.

Wildlife Highlights

The forested area at the park’s entrance provides a habitat for habituated groups of olive baboons and blue monkeys, offering a fascinating glimpse into their daily lives. The occasional sighting of a bushbuck darting through the undergrowth adds to the park’s allure. At the southern extremity of the park, klipspringers can be observed balancing precariously on rocky outcrops. For those keen on observing semi-aquatic creatures, the hippo pool serves as an excellent vantage point for observing these large, sociable mammals up close.

Optimal Times for Wildlife Safaris & Tours

Lake Manyara National Park offers commendable wildlife viewing throughout the year, yet the Dry season, extending from June to October, represents the optimal period. During this time, the thinning vegetation and concentrated water sources enhance wildlife visibility. Conversely, the Wet season, spanning from November to May, although visually stunning with its lush landscapes, can render roads slippery and challenging.

Birding Safaris

For bird enthusiasts, Lake Manyara provides a superb introduction to Tanzania’s avian wealth. Over 400 bird species have been recorded within the park, with the opportunity to observe approximately 100 of these species within a single day. The park’s diverse avifauna includes an array of water-associated birds such as pink-backed pelicans, which are prominently visible around the hippo pool. The lake, depending on water levels, can host thousands of flamingos, their pink-hued plumage creating a striking spectacle. Notable raptors include the crowned eagle, with more than 50 bird-of-prey species recorded. Migratory species are prevalent from November to April, adding further diversity to the park’s avian offerings.

Best Time for Bird Watching Safaris

Bird watching in Lake Manyara is rewarding year-round, yet the peak period is from November to April, when migratory birds from Europe and northern Africa are present. This period also coincides with the breeding plumage of many species, enhancing bird-watching opportunities. For general wildlife viewing, the Dry season (June to October) remains the most favorable.

Climate & Weather

Lake Manyara’s climate is remarkably temperate and mild, with average daytime temperatures peaking around 29°C (84°F) during the Wet season (November to May). This period is characterized by a pattern of intermittent ‘short rains’ followed by drier spells and extended rain phases. The Dry season (June to October) is slightly cooler, although nighttime temperatures can plummet, occasionally reaching freezing levels. While freezing conditions are rare, the coolness of the early morning and evening necessitates warm clothing, particularly during game drives.

The Dry season from June to October is marked by clear and sunny conditions. June, July, August, and September typically see afternoon temperatures around 24°C (75°F), with evening temperatures dropping to approximately 14°C (57°F). October may herald the onset of the short rains. In contrast, the Wet season from November to May maintains mild temperatures, with afternoon peaks around 27°C (81°F) and nighttime lows around 16°C (61°F). November and December experience short rains lasting about a month, often resulting in brief afternoon showers. January and February are generally dry, although the timing of rain is unpredictable. March, April, and May see daily rainfall, though it rarely persists throughout the day, with clouds usually present.

Best Time to Visit for Wildlife Safari Tours

Wildlife observation at Lake Manyara is consistently good throughout the year, though it reaches its zenith from late June to October during the Dry season. This period, while ideal for wildlife viewing, also attracts a higher number of tourists, leading to increased prices. For those looking to avoid the crowds, an early morning visit is recommended, as most visitors arrive in the afternoon. While the Wet season (November to May) is less favorable for wildlife viewing, it presents the park in its most picturesque form, with lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls enhancing its scenic beauty.

How to Get There

Lake Manyara is situated within the renowned northern safari circuit. Arusha serves as the primary gateway town, with Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) being the most convenient entry point, located approximately 46 kilometers (29 miles) from Arusha. Alternatively, travelers may arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam and take a connecting flight to Arusha Airport (ARK). For direct access, a flight from Arusha or the Serengeti to Manyara’s airstrip is available. However, the drive from Arusha on well-maintained roads takes approximately 1.5 hours, while the journey from the Ngorongoro Crater covers 80 kilometers (50 miles) in about two hours.

Malaria & Safety

Lake Manyara National Park is frequented by high volumes of visitors who enjoy the park’s diverse wildlife with minimal incidents of crime. Nevertheless, it is prudent to exercise standard safety precautions, especially in urban areas. The vast majority of tourists experience trouble-free visits, though standard vigilance is recommended.

Malaria & Vaccinations

Protection against malaria is crucial for visitors to Lake Manyara. Utilizing mosquito repellent containing DEET is essential, and it is advisable to cover exposed skin in the evenings. Prophylactic antimalarial medication should also be taken. In addition to malaria precautions, travelers should adhere to general health advisories and vaccination recommendations as per the latest health guidelines.