1 Dayday-trip

Lake Manyara Day Trip

A compact park with an outsized variety of habitat — groundwater forest, open grassland and a soda lake — best known for its tree-climbing lions.

Duration1 Day
Group SizePrivate or Joining Group, Min 2
Best TimeYear-round, dry season for the best lion sightings
StartsArusha
EndsArusha
StyleNone (Day Trip)

Overview

Lake Manyara rewards a single day better than almost any other northern circuit park — its groundwater forest, open plains and lake edge sit close enough together that a game drive moves through all three in a few hours. It’s famous for lions that climb into the branches of its acacia and fig trees, along with large troops of baboon, hippo pods in the shallows, and, when the lake holds water, thousands of flamingo along its shore.

Trip Highlights

  • Private driver-guide and flexible pacing
  • Wildlife, landscapes and local encounters
  • Thoughtful lodges and camps along the route
  • Direct local support throughout your journey

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1Lake Manyara Day Trip+

Depart Arusha in the morning for the drive to Lake Manyara National Park. Enter through the groundwater forest, home to blue monkey and troops of baboon, before opening onto the grassland and lake-edge sections where the park’s tree-climbing lions and hippo pods are usually found. Picnic lunch inside the park before the return drive to Arusha.

🏨 Stay: Own arrangement

Safari Pricing

From $200 — request a tailored quote →

What's Included

  • Private transport from your Arusha or Moshi hotel
  • English-speaking driver-guide throughout
  • All park entry and conservation fees
  • Bottled water during the trip
  • Lunch as specified in the itinerary
  • Tips and gratuities for your guide
  • Alcoholic and premium beverages
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Travel and medical insurance

Route Map

Your Route · Tanzania
  • Start Lake Manyara National Park — Groundwater forest, grassland & lake shore
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