Lake Manyara

Destination Deep Dive

Lake Manyara National Park, though relatively small at 330 square kilometers (127 square miles), packs an incredible diversity of habitats into its compact area. The park is dominated by the alkaline Lake Manyara, which can cover up to 200 square kilometers during the wet season but shrinks dramatically in the dry season, creating a constantly changing ecosystem.

Geographic Features

The park divides into distinct ecological zones:

Ground Water Forest

Immediately inside the park’s entrance, a dense groundwater forest fed by underground springs creates a unique habitat. This evergreen forest, rare in East Africa, supports an incredible variety of wildlife, including the park’s famous tree-climbing lions, massive troops of olive baboons, and diverse bird species. The forest’s permanent water source ensures year-round wildlife activity

Lake Shore and Alkaline Flats

The shallow, alkaline lake dominates the park’s eastern section. During wet seasons, the lake hosts thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds. The surrounding alkaline flats create important feeding grounds for many species, while hot springs in the south add to the area’s geological diversity.

Acacia Woodland and Grassland

Between the forest and lake shore, mixed acacia woodland and open grassland provide essential grazing areas for herbivores and hunting grounds for predators. The yellow-barked acacia trees are particularly important, serving as favorite climbing spots for the park’s lions.

Wildlife Populations

The park supports remarkable biodiversity:

• 2,500+ olive baboons (largest troops in Africa)
• 400+ bird species Tree-climbing lions
• 200+ elephant seasonally Large buffalo herds
• Dense hippo populations
• Diverse primate species Massive flamingo flocks (seasonal)

Seasonal Patterns

The park experiences two main seasons:

• Dry Season (July-October): Concentrated wildlife around permanent water
• Wet Season (November-June): Lush vegetation, bird breeding Best game viewing typically occurs:
• June to September (Dry season)
• December to February (Short dry period)

Experience Highlights

Tree-Climbing Lions Encounter

Witnessing Lake Manyara’s famous tree-climbing lions is unforgettable. Unlike most lions, these cats regularly climb trees, often spending entire days draped across branches. During our visit, we spotted three lionesses lounging in a massive yellow fever tree, occasionally shifting positions to catch the cooling breeze, their behavior completely different from their ground-dwelling cousins elsewhere in Africa.

Forest Walk Adventure

The groundwater forest offers rare walking opportunities. Guided by a park ranger, we explored ancient mahogany and fig trees while observing the forest’s inhabitants up close. Massive baboon troops moved through the canopy above us, while silvery-cheeked hornbills swooped between branches. The experience of being on foot in this unique ecosystem creates a profound connection to the environment.

Lake Shore Birding

Dawn at Lake Manyara’s shore reveals an extraordinary spectacle of birdlife. Thousands of lesser and greater flamingos create pink ribbons across the water, while pelicans, storks, and herons wade through the shallows. The morning light catching their wings as they take flight creates unforgettable photographic opportunities.