You can spend an entire day exploring Lake Manyara National Park, and when water levels are high enough, you can even include a unique canoe safari.
Location & size:
Ecologically rich Lake Manyara NP is located beneath the cliffs of the Manyara Escarpment. It covers an area of 330km2, of which up to 200km2 is lake when water levels are high. Our canoe safari is thus an excellent way of seeing the wildlife.
Landscapes & vegetation:
Underground springs from the Ngorongoro area filter down to keep Lake Manyara National Park green and teaming with animals. Manyara with its profusion of wildlife is a photographer’s paradise. The park affords spectacular views of the western escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. Visit the algae-streaked hot volcanic springs that bubble to the surface in the south of the park. The water in the springs is 60oC, and the springs are locally known as Maji Moto, which is Swahili for hot water.
Mammals:
Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its ‘tree-climbing’ lions and large numbers of hippo. However, a little-known fact is that Lake Manyara has the largest concentration of baboons found anywhere on Earth. During our day in Lake Manyara, we will see large troops of these primates and undoubtedly enjoy seeing examples of their complex social behaviours. Buffalo, zebra, wildebeest & giraffe herds also congregate on the grassy plains. See Kilpspringer & impala grazing on the rich vegetation.
Birds:
Flamingoes occur in their thousands on the soda lake, colouring it pink during season. The area is home to a multitude of other birds (over 480 species) including yellow-billed storks, herons, sacred ibis, cormorants and kori bustards - you can expect to see these and many more.
Reptiles:
Soft-shelled pancake tortoises occur in Lake Manyara, literally running for cover when alarmed. Those with a keen eye should catch a glimpse of the flap-necked chameleon.
