Lake Manyara National Park

Situated beneath the magnificent cliffs of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara National Park is a compact yet incredibly diverse safari destination. Often referred to as "Ernest Hemingway's loveliest park," this scenic gem offers an extraordinary variety of habitats within a small area, from the lush groundwater forests at the park's entrance to the acacia woodlands and grassy floodplains that stretch to the shores of its namesake lake. This unique ecological tapestry supports an impressive concentration of wildlife and makes for a visually stunning backdrop to any safari.

The park is famous for a few unique features. Most notably, Lake Manyara is one of the only places in Africa where you can spot the rare tree-climbing lions, often found lounging languidly in the branches of acacia and sausage trees. The park also boasts one of the highest concentrations of baboons in the world, with large, active troops providing constant entertainment. Beyond the primates and felines, visitors can expect to see large herds of elephants, which the park was originally established to protect, as well as buffalo, giraffes, wildebeest, and various antelopes.

Lake Manyara itself is a shallow, alkaline lake that is a major attraction, especially for birdwatching. During the wet season, the lake is a breathtaking sight, with vast flocks of pink-hued flamingos creating a vibrant spectacle on its shores. Over 400 bird species have been recorded here, making it a true birder's paradise year-round. Beyond traditional game drives, the park also offers opportunities for canoeing on the lake, walking safaris along the rift valley escarpment, and a unique treetop walkway for a bird's-eye view of the forest canopy, providing a different perspective on this remarkable park.