Lake Manyara National Park Day Trip

12 Hours

Flamingos, Forests & Tree-Climbing Lions

A jewel of Tanzania's safari circuit, Lake Manyara National Park offers dramatic contrasts in a compact area, making it perfect for a full-day adventure. The park is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, but it is also home to elephants, hippos, and prolific birdlife. The Rift Valley escarpment rises sharply above the alkaline lake, while lush groundwater forests provide shade and sanctuary for troops of baboons. With JoyTrekking's locally owned team, you'll discover how these habitats connect to cultural traditions, conservation and community partnerships. This day trip offers a diverse safari experience within easy reach of Arusha.

Highlights

Search for Lake Manyara's famous tree-climbing lions
See flamingos, pelicans and diverse birdlife along the soda lake
Drive through lush groundwater forests teeming with monkeys and baboons
Learn about the park's unique geology and Rift Valley landscapes
Gain cultural and conservation insights from our expert local guides

Itinerary

Lake Manyara National Park Day Safari
- Morning: Pickup from Arusha hotel and drive along the Great Rift Valley toward Lake Manyara. Enter the park and begin with a drive through dense groundwater forest, alive with baboons, blue monkeys and hornbills.
- Late Morning: Continue to the open plains and acacia woodlands where elephants and giraffes graze. Keep an eye on the treetops for lions stretched out on branches.
- Lunch: Picnic at a designated site with views of the soda lake.
- Afternoon: Drive along the lakeshore to spot flamingos, pelicans, hippos, and buffalo. Visit viewpoints of the Rift Valley escarpment for panoramic photos.
- Evening: Exit the park and return to Arusha by early evening.

Cost Includes

Professional JoyTrekking safari guide
4x4 safari vehicle with open roof
Park entry fees and ranger fees for walking safari
Picnic lunch and bottled drinking water
Hotel pickup and drop-off (Arusha)

Cost Excludes

International flights
Travel insurance
Optional Maasai boma visit (entrance fee not included)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks beyond water)
Tips for guide and ranger

Dates

See all departures at Lake Manyara National Park Day Trip

FAQs

How far is Lake Manyara from Arusha?

About 2-2.5 hours by road.

What is Lake Manyara best known for?

Tree-climbing lions, flamingos and incredible bird diversity.

Will I see elephants here?

Yes, Manyara is known for its elephant populations.

Can this trip be combined with another park?

Yes, Manyara is often paired with Tarangire or Ngorongoro for multi-day safaris.

What is the landscape like?

It ranges from forest to savanna to alkaline lake, all beneath the Rift Valley escarpment.

Are walking safaris possible?

Not typically - Manyara is best experienced via game drive.

At JoyTrekking Tours & Safaris, we are on a mission to curate extraordinary journeys and forge lifelong memories. Our commitment to delivering top-tier adventure experiences, coupled with a deep respect for the natural and cultural wonders of Kilimanjaro and its surroundings, defines our essence.

See it online https://joytrekking.com/trip/lake-manyara-national-park-day-trip/