Lake Manyara National Park
Northern Tanzania Region
Lake Manyara National Park, located in northern Tanzania between Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley, spans approximately 325 square kilometers including a large alkaline lake. The park is renowned for its unique ecosystem featuring diverse habitats such as groundwater forests, marshlands, and acacia woodlands at the Rift Valley escarpment. It is famous for its tree-climbing lions and supports a rich variety of wildlife including primates and over 350 bird species, notably hosting over two million flamingoes at times. Visitors can also explore rare geological features such as hot water springs with temperatures around 70°C. The park's scenic beauty is enhanced by the steep rift valley walls and large baobab trees scattered on the slopes. Activities include wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and canopy walks that offer panoramic views of the forest floor. Lake Manyara forms part of the larger Lake Manyara Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO, and plays a crucial role in regional wildlife migration corridors connecting to Tarangire National Park and beyond. The park's diverse flora includes over 670 flowering plant and fern species, contributing to its ecological richness and appeal to nature enthusiasts.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park is during the dry months from July to September when wildlife is easier to spot and the weather is mild. Visitors are advised to book park entry and guided tours in advance, especially during peak seasons. Birdwatchers should consider visiting during the wet season (November to May) to witness the abundance of migratory birds. Discounts may be available for children, students, and groups through official Tanzania National Parks channels. Access to the park is convenient by car from Arusha or via nearby Lake Manyara Airport. Guided canopy walks offer unique perspectives and should be reserved ahead to ensure availability.
Faits intéressants
- •Lake Manyara National Park hosts over 350 bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.
- •The park is famous for its rare tree-climbing lions, a unique behavior not commonly seen in other lion populations.
- •More than two million flamingoes have been counted simultaneously on Lake Manyara.
- •The park features hot water springs reaching temperatures of approximately 70°C, hot enough to boil an egg.
- •The lake's depth fluctuates seasonally, sometimes drying up completely during extreme droughts.
- •The park is part of the larger Lake Manyara Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme site.
Histoire
The Lake Manyara area was initially used for sports hunting in the 1920s before being designated a game reserve in 1957.
It gained National Park status in 1960, with an expansion in 1974 adding land to the southern end.
In 1981, the park became part of the UNESCO-designated Lake Manyara Biosphere Reserve under the Man and the Biosphere Programme.
Over the decades, the park has evolved from a hunting ground to a protected area emphasizing conservation and biodiversity, playing a vital role in wildlife migration corridors in northern Tanzania.
Guide du lieu
Rift Valley Escarpment
The steep western escarpment offers spectacular views over the park and lake, featuring large baobab trees and dense acacia woodland at its base.
Groundwater Forest
A tall evergreen forest near the park gate sustained by underground springs, dominated by fig and mahogany trees, supporting primates and other wildlife.
Lake Manyara Alkaline Lake
A shallow alkaline lake covering about two-thirds of the park, fluctuating in size and depth seasonally, home to vast flocks of flamingoes and other water birds.
Hot Water Springs
Geothermal springs located within the park with temperatures around 70°C, a rare geological feature allowing visitors to experience natural hot springs.
Tree-Climbing Lions
A unique behavioral phenomenon where lions climb and rest in trees, a rare sight attracting many visitors to the park.
Contact
Téléphone: 027 297 0404