Lake Manyara Day Safari
Spot tree-climbing lions and flamingos in this Rift Valley gem.
Overview of the Route
Explore the diverse ecosystems of Lake Manyara National Park, a compact gem offering incredible biodiversity. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large flamingo flocks, and the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment that forms its western boundary. This day safari takes you through groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, and along the shores of the alkaline lake. The park is home to elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebras, and an exceptional variety of primates including baboons and blue monkeys. The birdlife is spectacular, with over 400 species recorded. Pink flamingos often line the lakeshore, and the park is one of the best places in Tanzania to spot the elusive tree-climbing lions resting in mahogany and acacia trees.
Why Choose Serengeti Times Luxury Safaris?
Discover what makes us the most trusted and well-regarded Kilimanjaro operator — from safety standards and training to every detail on the mountain.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
07:00 - Pick up from your Arusha hotel after breakfast. Drive 2 hours through scenic countryside with views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. 09:00 - Enter Lake Manyara National Park through the main gate. The park is compact but incredibly diverse, offering excellent wildlife viewing in a small area. 09:30 - Game drive through the lush groundwater forest at the park entrance. This jungle-like environment is home to troops of blue monkeys, baboons that entertaining visitors with their antics, and colorful birds. Elephants browse among the fever trees. 11:00 - Continue to the lakeshore where the alkaline lake hosts thousands of pink flamingos creating a spectacular pink carpet effect. Over 400 bird species have been recorded here including pelicans, cormorants, storks, and herons. 12:00 - Visit the hippo pools for close-up views (from vehicles) of these massive animals. The park has a high hippo population with multiple pools where you can observe their behavior. 12:30 - Picnic lunch at a scenic spot with lake views. Watch for fish eagles and other raptors hunting. 13:30 - Afternoon game drive searching for the park's famous tree-climbing lions - a unique behavior where lions rest in acacia trees, possibly to escape biting flies. Also look for leopards, giraffes, buffalo, wildebeest, zebras, and numerous impalas. 15:00 - Drive through different habitats from forest to acacia woodland to open grasslands. Each zone supports different wildlife. Visit the hot springs where warm water bubbles up creating a unique microhabitat. 16:30 - Final game drive and birdwatching opportunities. 17:00 - Exit the park and begin scenic drive back to Arusha with sunset views over the Rift Valley. 19:00 - Drop off at your hotel.
Professional Mountain Guides
Serengeti Times Luxury Safaris employs the finest talent for Kilimanjaro expeditions. Our guides and their mountain crews are true professionals who have led hundreds of successful climbs.
Seasoned mountain professionals
Wilderness First Responders
What's Included
- ✓All meals and accommodation during the trek
- ✓Professional mountain guides and porters
- ✓National park fees and climbing permits
- ✓Emergency oxygen and comprehensive first aid kit
- ✓High-quality camping equipment
- ✓Two medical check-ups daily for altitude monitoring
What's Included
Perfect For
Tree-Climbing Lions
Difficulty Level
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