Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara is a small (330 square km) and very scenic park is comprised of two-thrids water, the shallow alkaline lake that it takes it's name from. Considering the size of the remaining land there is a wide variety of habitats to be explored, from the open floodplain that surrounds the lake shore to the varying forests that line the base of the Rift Valley escarpment.

For logistical reasons most visitors pass through Manyara in the afternoon, but the park is probably at it's best during the early hours of the morning. Due to the great diversity of habitat Manyara is a birdwatcher's paradise with over 400 species recorded. Elephants are also prolific and less skiddish than in other northern parks.

There are adventure activities available around Lake Manyara (not in the actual national park) for those who want to get out of the vehicle and stretch their travelling legs. Walking safaris, mountain biking and canoening can all be done for varying durations of time from an hour or two, to a whole day. And for the real thrill seeker there is the option of an incredible Micro-Light Flight over the Rift Valley Escaprment!