Lake Manyara National Park is celebrated for its unique tree-climbing lions and elephants with impressive tusks. The park’s lush plains are a gathering place for extensive herds of buffalo, wildebeest, and zebra. Its escarpment provides a haven for a considerable population of leopards. However, catching a glimpse of these secretive big cats often relies on luck.
The forested area at the entrance to the park serves as a habitat for acclimated groups of olive baboons and blue monkeys. Occasionally, bushbucks are observed, swiftly disappearing into the underbrush. The charming dik-diks, notable for their doe-like eyes and twitching noses, are a common sight. Additionally, klipspringer pairs may be seen skillfully navigating the rocky terrain at the park’s southern extremity.
Lake Manyara offers good wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year, but the Dry season (June to October) is considered the best time to visit. During this period, the sparse vegetation and the tendency of animals to gather at predictable water sources make spotting wildlife simpler. On the other hand, the Wet season (November to May) reveals the park in its most scenic form, although it’s important to remember that March and April are months with substantial rainfall.
Birdwatching in Lake Manyara offers delights all year round, yet it peaks from November to April. This season allows enthusiasts to witness a variety of migratory birds from both the Palearctic and intra-African regions. It’s also when numerous birds showcase their colorful breeding feathers, enhancing the visual experience. Meanwhile, the best period for spotting wildlife is during the Dry season, which runs from June to October, when conditions are most favorable.
450+
Nov to Apr
Bask in the endless sunshine and azure skies, a signature feature of our climate, where raindrops are a rare sight.
As the calendar pages turn from June to September, the days are bathed in a pleasant warmth with temperatures gracefully averaging 26°C (79°F). Yet, as the sun bids farewell, the mercury dips to a cool 14°C (57°F), enveloping the nights and early mornings in a brisk embrace. For those venturing out into the dawn, a wardrobe equipped with cozy layers becomes an essential companion.
When October’s air begins to stir, it whispers the arrival of the brief rainy season, transforming the landscape and inviting a different kind of beauty.
In the Wet season, days warm up to about 28°C (82°F) and nights cool down to 19°C (66°F).
November and December bring short, light rains. You might see some rain in the afternoon, but it usually doesn’t last all day, so it won’t really mess with your plans.
January and February are dryer months, a nice break between the rainy times. But, it’s hard to say exactly when this dry spell will happen.
From March to May, expect the “Long rains” — it rains most days, but not all day long, leaving the sky mostly cloudy.
Nestled within the famed Northern safari route, Lake Manyara National Park stands out as a must-visit destination, with the town of Arusha acting as the essential starting point for adventurers. Reaching Arusha is most easily done by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), conveniently located just 50km (31 miles) from the town. For those coming from farther afield, Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam offers an alternative pathway, with onward flights to either Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport, facilitating your journey to the heart of safari country.
Adventurers bound for Lake Manyara will find direct flight options from Arusha as well as from the iconic Serengeti National Park directly to the park’s own airstrip, making the journey as seamless as the African skies. If the road calls to you, a scenic drive from Arusha will get you to Lake Manyara in about 1.5 hours, gliding along smooth, paved roads that promise an easy and enjoyable trip.
For those venturing from the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, a two-hour drive covering 80km (50 miles) will lead you through breathtaking landscapes to your Lake Manyara adventure.
You can use Skyscanner to check which airlines fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), see ticket prices, and compare them with other sources.
Typically, flights between parks are included in your safari package provided by Bush 2 City Adventure consultants. We have established special partnerships with local carriers, facilitating convenient access to domestic flights. These carriers include:
Kindly refer to our “Gett – “Tanzania” page for detailed information on passport, visa, COVID-19, and other entry requirements.
When planning a trip to Lake Manyara, it’s crucial to protect yourself against malaria. Ensure to use mosquito repellent, particularly those containing DEET for maximum effectiveness, and remember to cover any exposed skin during the evening hours. Additionally, it’s highly recommended to take antimalarial medication as a precautionary measure. Don’t forget to inquire about several vaccinations that are also advised for this region. Before embarking on your journey, it’s wise to seek guidance from your doctor or a specialized travel clinic to ensure you’re adequately prepared.
Watching wildlife is an incredibly safe experience, as long as you follow the park’s rules and heed the advice of your assigned guide. For extra safety tips, please consult the ‘Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions’ section below.
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