Lake Manyara National Park forms one side of the Great Rift Valley, making it a stunning destination. Known as a true haven for bird enthusiasts, the area is home to extensive populations of flamingoes, storks, cormorants, pelicans, and over 350 other bird species. At the northern end of the park, a lush groundwater forest features towering figs and mahogany trees, where monkeys, baboons, bushbucks, waterbucks, and even elephants make their home. Just south of this forest lies open grassland, where you can spot buffalo, wildebeest, impala, giraffe, and zebra, along with lions that sometimes lounge on the branches of acacia trees.

Easily accessible, Lake Manyara boasts its airstrip, and it’s just a short drive from Arusha and Tarangire National Park. Generally, a stay of 2 to 3 nights in the area is plenty, as you can also visit the Ngorongoro Crater from nearby accommodations. In addition to game drives through the national park, you can participate in more adventurous activities like walking across the Treetop Walkway suspension bridges, canoeing on the lake, or cycling through the charming village of Mto wa Mbu.