LAKE MANYARA

    NATIONAL PARK

    Home to tree climbing Lions

    Lake Manyara National Park is a protected area, situated between Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley. It is administered by the Tanzania National Parks Authority, and covers an area of 325 km2 (125 sq mi) including about 230 km2 (89 sq mi) lake surface. More than 350 bird species have been observed on the lake. The lush green vegetation consisting of tall trees of the ground water forest, the tree climbing lions, the soda lake inhabited with thousands of pink-hued flamingos, large water birds and the troops of baboons and blue monkeys and the rift valley escarpment make your safari to this area unforgettable. The park derives its name from a plant called Euphorbia tirucalli, known as Emanyara in Maasai language.

    FACTS

    1. Location: Northern Tanzania, along the western edge of the Great Rift Valley.
    2. Size: Covers approximately 330 square kilometers, with the lake making up about two-thirds of the park.
    3. Wildlife: Known for diverse wildlife, including tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, giraffes, and large flocks of flamingos.
    4. Birdlife: Home to over 400 bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.
    5. Landscape: Features diverse landscapes including alkaline soda lake, dense woodlands, hot springs, and grassy floodplains.
    6. Biosphere Reserve: Part of the Lake Manyara Biosphere Reserve, recognized for its ecological significance.
    7. Activities: Popular activities include game drives, birdwatching, canoeing (seasonal), and walking safaris.
    8. Vegetation: Varied vegetation zones ranging from groundwater forests to open savannahs.
    9. Proximity: Close to the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, making it a convenient stop on the Northern Safari Circuit.
    10. Cultural Visits: Opportunities to visit local Maasai villages and learn about their culture.
    11. Seasonal Changes: Wildlife and bird populations vary with the wet and dry seasons.
    12. Tourism: Attracts tourists for its scenic beauty and rich wildlife viewing opportunities.
    13. Conservation: Efforts are in place to protect the park’s ecosystems and biodiversity.