1-Day Lake Manyara Safari from Arusha with Tree-Climbing Lions

1 Day Round trip from Tanzania Easy pace

View all 25 photos

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore diverse habitats from groundwater forests to open grasslands
02 Watch for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, and baboons
03 See seasonal flamingos and abundant birdlife along the lakeshore
04 Take in the scenery beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment

Escape to the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Manyara National Park on a full-day safari from Arusha. Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, the park is known for its diverse habitats, including lush groundwater forests, open grasslands, acacia woodlands, hot springs, and the alkaline waters of Lake Manyara. Despite its compact size, the park supports an incredible variety of wildlife, from elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, baboons, blue monkeys, and wildebeests to the famous tree-climbing lions seen on occasion. The lake also attracts thousands of flamingos and numerous other bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Lake Manyara

Languages English, French, Italian, Spanish, Swahili

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Full-Day Safari in Lake Manyara National Park

06:00 - Hotel Pick-up: Your driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel in Arusha for the scenic drive to Lake Manyara National Park, passing through picturesque villages and the beautiful Tanzanian countryside.
08:30 - Arrival at the Park: Arrive at the park entrance, complete registration, and begin your exciting safari adventure.
09:00 - Morning Game Drive: Explore the park's varied habitats while searching for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, baboons, monkeys, antelopes, and a wide variety of birdlife. If you're lucky, you may even spot the park's famous tree-climbing lions.
12:30 - Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated picnic site surrounded by the park's stunning natural scenery.
13:30 - Afternoon Game Drive: Continue exploring different areas of the park, including the lakeshore, where flamingos and other waterbirds gather seasonally. Visit areas near the hot springs and enjoy more opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
15:30 - Depart the Park: Leave Lake Manyara National Park and begin the drive back to Arusha.
18:00 - Hotel Drop-off or Airport: Arrive at your hotel in the early evening, bringing your memorable safari experience to an end.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Tanzania 2 cities · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Arusha
Transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking safari guide
Picnic lunch
Bottled drinking water
Full-day game drive

What's Not Included

International flights
Accommodation before and after the tour
Travel insurance
Visa fees
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Alcoholic and soft drinks
Tips (recommended: US$10 per person per day)
Government-imposed increases in taxes or park fees

What to bring

Passport or a copy of your identification
Comfortable clothing in neutral colors
Light jacket or sweater for the morning
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat or cap
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Camera or smartphone
Binoculars
Reusable water bottle
Personal medications
Small backpack for personal items
Cash for tips or souvenirs

Know before you go

Depart early for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, as animals roam freely in the park.
Wear comfortable, neutral-colored clothing and sturdy closed-toe shoes.
Bring a light jacket for the cool morning hours.
Carry sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
Bring a camera, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle.
A valid passport is recommended, and visitors should check Tanzania's visa requirements before travel.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Follow your guide's instructions at all times and respect the park's wildlife and environment.
Park entry fees are included only if covered by your package.

Logistics