Lake Manyara National Park

Size

• Covers approximately 330 square kilometers
• About two-thirds of the park is covered by Lake Manyara

Origin of the Name

• Named after Lake Manyara, a shallow alkaline lake
• The name “Manyara” comes from a Maasai word referring to a type of plant
  used to build fences

Physical Features

1. Lake Manyara – Shallow alkaline lake attracting birds
2. Rift Valley Escarpment – Steep cliffs forming a dramatic
   backdrop
3. Groundwater Forests – Fed by underground springs
4. Open Grasslands and Floodplains

Vegetation

• Dense groundwater forests
• Acacia woodlands
• Grasslands
• Marshes and swamps

Wildlife

Mammals

• Tree-climbing lions
• Elephants
• Buffaloes
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Wildebeest
• Hippos
• Warthogs
• Baboons (large troops)

Birds

• Over 400 bird species, including:
  • Flamingos
  • Pelicans
  • Storks
  • Ibises
  • Eagles

Climate

• Warm climate
• Dry season: June–October
• Wet seasons:
  • November–December
  • March–May

Conservation and History

• Established as a national park in 1960
• Protected to conserve wildlife and Rift Valley ecosystems

Tourism Activities

Visitors can enjoy:

• Game drives
• Bird watching
• Nature photography
• Scenic viewing along the escarpment

Importance

Lake Manyara National Park is important because it:

• Protects Rift Valley habitats
• Supports bird diversity
• Preserves unique wildlife behaviors
  (tree-climbing lions)
• Enhances Tanzania’s tourism industry

Fun Facts

• Famous for lions that climb trees
• One of the best bird-watching parks in Tanzania
• Changes seasonally as lake levels rise and fall