Lake Manyara National Park
The day trip to Lake Manyara National Park begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Arusha, ensuring a full day to enjoy one of Tanzania’s most scenic and wildlife-rich parks.
As you drive westward, the landscape transitions from the bustling streets of Arusha to the dramatic escarpments of the Great Rift Valley.
Trip Overview
- Game drive through diverse habitats
- Chance to spot tree-climbing lions
- Birdwatching by the alkaline lake
- Picnic lunch in the heart of the park
- Explore groundwater forests, hot springs & acacia woodlands
Full Itinerary
Your journey starts with a drive from Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park, taking approximately 2.5 hours. Upon arrival at the park gate, a short registration is completed before you begin your game drive. The park is famous for its stunning ecological variety, despite its relatively small size.
The first part of your drive leads through lush groundwater forests where baboons, blue monkeys, and hornbills often make early appearances. As you move into the open plains and woodlands, keep an eye out for elephants, wildebeests, giraffes, zebras, and the park’s rare tree-climbing lions—often seen resting on low branches during the heat of the day.
At the lake’s edge, flocks of flamingos, pelicans, storks, and countless waterbirds gather in spectacular numbers, making this a birdwatcher’s paradise. Your guide will help you identify the species and explain the unique ecosystem that supports this biodiversity.
A picnic lunch is provided at one of the scenic park viewpoints, overlooking the expansive lake and Great Rift Valley wall—an ideal spot for a mid-day break surrounded by nature.
In the afternoon, your exploration continues through acacia woodland and to the hot springs (Maji Moto), where bubbling geothermal activity contrasts with the park’s cool lake breezes. Depending on the season, you might also spot hippos wallowing in the water and large troops of baboons along the route.
By around 4:30 PM, you’ll exit the park and begin the return journey to Arusha, with drop-off at your hotel to conclude the day’s adventure.
Price Includes
Price Excludes
- Pick-up and drop-off in Arusha.
- English-speaking guide.
- Private transport in a 4×4 vehicle.
- Waterfall entry fees and Village access.
- Guided waterfall hike.
- Coffee tour and hands-on participation.
- Traditional Chagga lunch.
- Personal expenses.
- Extra drinks and snacks.
- Tips for the guide and village hosts.
- Swimming gear (if needed).
Price Includes
- Transport (4×4 Land Cruiser) with pop-up roof
- All Park fees
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Accommodation & Dining
- Drinking water
Price Excludes
- International flight
- Regional flight
- Tanzanian visa
- Travel insurance
- Drinks at the lodge / hotel
- Gratuity for the safari guide
- Single supplement
- Personal items
- Laundry service at the hotel / lodge
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