Manyara National Park Day tours

Lake Manyara National Park – 1-Day Safari Experience

Embark on a scenic and wildlife-rich day safari to Lake Manyara National Park, a lush haven nestled at the foot of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Known for its incredible biodiversity and dramatic landscapes, this park offers a truly unique experience for both first-time safari-goers and seasoned travelers.

Lake Manyara is a compact but ecologically diverse park featuring groundwater forests, open grasslands, hot springs, and the alkaline lake itself. It's famous for its tree-climbing lions, large troops of baboons, and seasonal flocks of flamingos that paint the lake’s shores pink. With Origin Ventures and Safaris, you’ll enjoy a smooth and professionally guided journey into this remarkable wildlife sanctuary.

Whether you're looking for a short wildlife encounter or a scenic escape from Manyara, this 1-day tour delivers incredible value and unforgettable memories.

Tree-climbing lion in Lake Manyara
Flamingos at Lake Manyara
Baboons in Manyara forest

Lake Manyara National Park - Day Trip Safari Itinerary

Ideal for a short but immersive wildlife encounter, this full-day trip to Lake Manyara is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want to experience the beauty of a Tanzanian safari.

06:00 AM – Pick-up & Departure from Manyara

We begin the day early with a hotel pick-up in Manyara. Enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive westward, passing local villages, coffee farms, and the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment. A light breakfast box is provided.

08:30 AM – Arrive at Lake Manyara National Park & Begin Game Drive

After a brief park orientation, start your game drive through the lush groundwater forest, where you may encounter blue monkeys, hornbills, and large troops of baboons—some of the largest in Africa. The drive continues into the open savannah and acacia woodlands, home to elephants, giraffes, impalas, and buffaloes.

11:30 AM – Lake View & Birdwatching

Arrive at the alkaline Lake Manyara shoreline. Depending on the season, this area is dotted with thousands of flamingos, storks, pelicans, and other waterbirds. It’s a paradise for bird lovers and photographers.

12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch

Stop at a designated picnic site with panoramic views of the lake and the escarpment beyond. Enjoy a hot lunch box, fresh fruit, and cold bottled water while soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

01:30 PM – Final Game Drive & Search for Tree-Climbing Lions

In the afternoon, continue exploring the southern parts of the park, where you might catch sight of the park’s elusive tree-climbing lions—one of its most iconic attractions. You'll also spot warthogs, wildebeest, and possibly hippos in the nearby water sources.

03:30 PM – Exit the Park & Begin Return Journey

Exit the park and start your return drive to Manyara, enjoying views of Maasai homesteads and volcanic hills along the way.

06:00 PM – Drop-off at Hotel

Arrive back at your hotel in Manyara, concluding a day filled with adventure, wildlife, and unforgettable landscapes.

Included in the Tour

  • Transport in a private 4x4 safari jeep with pop-up roof
  • Professional English-speaking safari guide
  • Park entry fees & government levies
  • Hot picnic lunch & bottled mineral water
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off (within Arusha)
  • Birdwatching and wildlife viewing activities

Excluded from the Tour

  • International/domestic flights
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal purchases (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)
  • Optional cultural activities (e.g., Maasai village visit)

Book your Tour

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