Lake Manyara Day Trip

Tour Overview

A Day Trip to Lake Manyara National Park offers an unforgettable safari experience within a compact but incredibly diverse ecosystem. Located between Arusha and the famous Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this park is an important stop along Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.

Lake Manyara National Park is known for its remarkable variety of habitats, including:

  • Lush groundwater forests
  • Open grassy plains
  • Acacia woodlands
  • The alkaline waters of Lake Manyara

These ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife and make the park one of Tanzania’s most scenic safari destinations.

What to Expect on This Safari

Tree-Climbing Lions

Lake Manyara is famous for its rare tree-climbing lions, which are often seen resting on acacia tree branches. This unusual behavior makes the park a unique safari destination in Tanzania.

Diverse Wildlife

During your game drive, you may encounter:

  • Elephants
  • Buffaloes
  • Giraffes
  • Zebras
  • Impalas
  • Hippos

The park is also home to large troops of baboons and vervet monkeys, especially in the forested areas.

Hippo Pools

One of the highlights of the park is the hippo pool, where visitors can observe hippos resting in the water while other animals gather nearby.

Birdwatching Paradise

Lake Manyara is a dream destination for bird enthusiasts, with over 200 bird species recorded.

Common sightings include:

  • Flamingos
  • Pelicans
  • African fish eagles
  • Lilac-breasted rollers
  • Various birds of prey

Rift Valley Escarpment

The park is bordered by the dramatic Great Rift Valley escarpment, creating a breathtaking backdrop and spectacular scenery during your safari.

Lake Manyara Day Trip Itinerary

07:00 – 08:00 AM – Pick-up from Arusha

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Arusha and drive toward Lake Manyara National Park.

Scenic Drive via Mto wa Mbu

On the way to the park, you will pass through the vibrant town of Mto wa Mbu, known for its local markets and cultural diversity.

Morning Game Drive

After entering the park, enjoy a guided game drive through forests, open plains, and lake shore areas in search of wildlife.

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch at a designated picnic site while surrounded by the beauty of the park.

Afternoon Safari

Continue your game drive exploring more of the park’s landscapes and wildlife habitats.

Return to Arusha

In the late afternoon, begin the drive back to Arusha, arriving in the early evening.

Lake Manyara Day Trip Prices

Number of Travelers
Price Per Person (USD)
1 Person
481 $
2 People
296 $
3 People
234 $
4-10 People
187 $
The Package Includes
  • Transport in a 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
  • Professional English-speaking safari guide
  • Park and crater entry fees
  • Packed picnic lunch
  • Bottled mineral water
  • Guiding and transit fees
The Package Excludes
  • Tips for the guide
  • Maasai village or cultural visits
  • Personal travel insuranc
  • Personal expenses
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
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