Lake Manyara National Park lies at the foot of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Although compact, it packs in a remarkable variety of habitats, from lush groundwater forest to open grassland and the shores of a shallow alkaline lake.

Highlights

• Large troops of olive baboons and blue monkeys in the forest
• Seasonal flocks of flamingos and pelicans on the lake
• Lions known for resting in acacia trees
• The treetop walkway and canoeing when water levels allow

Lake Manyara works well as a half-day or full-day stop between Arusha and the Ngorongoro Crater.