Remote, Unique, and fascinating; Lake Manyara national park is such a wonder and spectacular place to visit. In many ways, it is a symbol of the connection between humans and the wild. The flourishing landscape, beauty, and amazing attractions among others.
It seats on a 325 Sq. km2 of land. Inclusive of a vast magnificent lake that is decorated with the flourishing landscape. Several rare birdlife, and the flourishing landscape among others.
The park is situated 126km southwest of Arusha city. A few kilometers from Tarangire national park to the southeast, plus several other destinations in the northern circuit of Tanzania. It is bordered by Manyara airport, marang forest reserve, engaruka basin to the west, and Kwa Kuchinja to the east.
There is a hippopotamus pool at the northern part of the lake. Whereas Two hot springs; one at the southern, and the other at the center of the park. In addition to hippos, and several other mammals, a narrow zone of thick acacia woodland at the foot of the rift valley, magnificent rocky escapements. From November to December the park experiences shorter rains. April to May having wettest periods; and June to October having dry periods among others.
It has a lot of biodiversity, with over 670 flowering plants. Though a few are endemic, perennial springs and rivers powering their water off the escarpment. Lush forest dominated by sycamore fig trees, Broad-leaved Croton, yellow fever trees and trichilia among others.
Mammals, birds, and several primate species call it home. Notably; the unique tree-climbing lions, elephants, cape buffaloes, leopards, wildebeest, Grant gazelles, several antelope species, warthogs, and zebras among others. Over 350 unique bird species such as the great pelican. Thousands of flamingoes, yellow-billed stork, and marabou stork among others. Primates such as the baboon and monkeys among others. Over 180 unique butterfly species. Lake Manyara national park has two entrances. One at the northern side which is the main gate whereas the other is in the south.
What to do in Lake Manyara national park?
With all this biodiversity, Lake Manyara national park is open for honeymooners, game viewers, researchers, photographers, birders, hikers, and families among others, out for budget, luxury, group or solo safaris among others. Some of the activities offered here include;
Bird watching
Lake Manyara National Park is birders haven. With over 350 rare species notably. The flamingos which flood the shoreline of the lake, egrets, pelicans, and spoonbills among others, feed, resting and soaring above the lake. With the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide.
Game Viewing
On your safari vehicle during day or night game drive, with the camera set at a point of capturing the most remarkable grazing, hunting, and moving style of your favorite mammal, bird, or Primate; wildlife safari is the way to go. The park has the rare tree-climbing lions, leopards, warthogs, water-bucks, wildebeests, giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, and zebras among others.
Also, you will not end your adventure without wondering at the sympathetic look of the troops of baboons spread along with the forest cover.
Hiking
One or two hours of a forest walk along the escarpment is one of the rewarding activities done at the park; offering an exceptional experience and a remarkable adventure opportunity of photography, birding, discovering new plant species and relaxing among others. You can as well hike to the hot springs around the park through the guidance of an experienced tour guide.
Cultural experience
As you explore the magnificent park, two or more hours with the neighboring cultures is not a bad idea, dancing to their songs, copying their dances, and listening to the captivating stories makes the entire trip unforgettable.
Best time to do a safari in Lake Manyara national park
From June to October is the best time for a safari to Lake Manyara national park because the animals are many and easily seen, and the rains that can interfere with the activities are less or not there at all. However, come along with a camera, visa, passport, long-sleeved shirts, trousers, first aid, extra memory card, and medical insurance affirmation, and many more as the travel consultant will guide.
In conclusion, Lake Manyara national park is a tiny park with a wide range of biodiversity; amazing activities; beautiful landscape, and captivating landscapes that perfectly fall in your bucket list.