1 Day:
Lk. Manyara N.P
Discover Tanzania’s most diverse compact park on this exciting day safari to Lake Manyara, famous worldwide for its tree-climbing lions and spectacular flamingo concentrations. This small but incredibly diverse park packs five distinct ecosystems into just 330 square kilometers, from groundwater forests to alkaline lake shores teeming with waterbirds.
Lake Manyara offers unique wildlife experiences impossible elsewhere including lions resting in acacia branches, massive flocks of flamingos creating pink carpets across alkaline waters, and elephants feeding in lush groundwater forests. The park’s compact size ensures excellent wildlife viewing throughout the day while showcasing incredible ecosystem diversity.
Drive Time: 1.5 hours each way | Activities: 5-6 hours game driving
Morning departure at 7:00 AM from Arusha for scenic drive through Great Rift Valley highlands to Lake Manyara National Park. The journey offers spectacular views of the escarpment and traditional Maasai communities before arriving at this compact wilderness gem nestled between dramatic rift valley walls and alkaline Lake Manyara.
Morning Game Drive (8:30 AM – 12:30 PM) Enter Lake Manyara National Park through lush groundwater forest where troops of blue monkeys and baboons feed in mahogany and fig trees. Search for elephants navigating between massive tree trunks and diverse antelope species including Kirk’s dik-dik, klipspringer, and impala in dense forest understory.
Drive to lake shores where thousands of flamingos create spectacular pink displays across alkaline waters, especially during wet season. The lake attracts over 400 bird species including pelicans, cormorants, storks, and fish eagles. Search for famous tree-climbing lions resting in umbrella acacia trees, a behavior unique to Manyara and few other African locations.
Lunch Break (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM) Enjoy packed lunch at scenic picnic site overlooking Lake Manyara with opportunities to observe hippos wallowing in lake shallows and diverse waterbirds.
Afternoon Game Drive (1:30 PM – 3:30 PM) Continue exploring park’s diverse habitats including acacia woodlands, grassy floodplains, and hot springs creating unique microclimates. Visit Maji Moto hot springs where ground temperatures reach 60°C, creating interesting geological features and supporting unique vegetation.
Search for buffalo herds, giraffes, zebras, and if fortunate, the elusive tree-climbing lions that made Manyara famous worldwide. The afternoon provides excellent opportunities for bird photography with diverse species active in cooler temperatures.
Cultural Stop and Return Journey (3:30 PM – 5:30 PM) Optional brief stop at Mto wa Mbu cultural market experiencing local life before return journey to Arusha, arriving around 5:30 PM.
Meals: Packed lunch, bottled water, and snacks.
✔ Professional English-speaking safari guide and driver.
✔ Private 4WD safari vehicle with pop-up roof for optimal game viewing.
✔ All park entrance fees and government taxes.
✔ Packed lunch, bottled water, and snacks throughout the day.
✔ Hotel pickup and drop-off in Arusha area.
✔ Game drives as per itinerary schedule.
✔ Optional cultural market visit in Mto wa Mbu.
✔ Emergency first aid kit and communication equipment.
✔ Professional wildlife spotting and bird identification guidance.
✔ Fuel and vehicle insurance coverage.
✘ International flights to and from Tanzania.
✘ Tanzania visa fees if required for your nationality.
✘ Travel and medical insurance coverage.
✘ Alcoholic beverages and additional soft drinks.
✘ Tips for driver-guide ($15-20 recommended for excellent service).
✘ Personal items, souvenirs, and cultural market shopping.
✘ Optional cultural activities not mentioned in itinerary.
✘ Emergency evacuation insurance.
✘ Accommodation (day trip only).
Find your ideal Tanzania adventure with our comprehensive range of safari itineraries, each carefully crafted to deliver exceptional wildlife viewing, cultural insights, and authentic African experiences.
“Excellent guides who not only know how to guide a raft through the rapids, but can explain the geology and the history of the area. This trip gives you the opportunity to see a part of Dinosaur National Monument that most people never get to see”
Tourist, Canada
Here we share practical tips, inspiring stories, and expert advice to help you travel smarter and experience more.
