Lake Manyara Day Trip
$600 per person
Overview
Lake Manyara National Park is a compact but incredibly diverse park located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, just a short drive from Arusha or Karatu. Often described as a “little Eden,” it is home to lush groundwater forests, open savannah, and the shimmering alkaline lake itself—frequented by thousands of flamingos.
This park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large herds of elephants, and prolific birdlife (over 400 recorded species). A day trip here is perfect for travelers looking for a rich and scenic safari experience in a single day, particularly those en route to Ngorongoro or Serengeti.
Day Trip Itinerary
06:30 AM – Pick-up from Arusha / Karatu / Mto wa Mbu
Depart early from your lodge or hotel with your safari guide.
Enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive from Arusha or a short 30-minute ride from Karatu/Mto wa Mbu.
Brief stop at the park gate for registration.
08:30 AM – Morning Game Drive through Groundwater Forest
Enter the park and drive through dense jungle-like forests fed by underground springs.
Spot blue monkeys, baboons, and hornbills flitting through the canopy.
Watch for elephants browsing in the shade or giraffes moving between clearings.
10:00 AM – Explore Open Plains & Spot Tree-Climbing Lions
Venture into the savannah zone where lions are sometimes seen lounging in acacia trees.
Observe wildebeests, zebras, warthogs, and impalas grazing near the lake’s edge.
11:30 AM – Lake Shore & Birdwatching
Drive toward the alkaline lake, home to flamingos, pelicans, storks, and more.
Binoculars recommended—this area is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch at Msasa Picnic Site
Enjoy lunch with stunning views of the lake and escarpment.
Stretch your legs and take in the tranquil surroundings.
01:30 PM – Afternoon Game Drive & Hot Springs Visit
Continue to the southern end of the park to see the Majimoto Hot Springs.
Optional short walk on a boardwalk to view bubbling springs and distant animals.
03:30 PM – Exit the Park & Begin Return Journey
Begin your drive back toward Arusha or your lodge in Karatu.
Watch for late-afternoon animal activity as you leave the park.
05:30 PM – Drop-off at Your Hotel or Lodge
Arrive back with great memories, wildlife photos, and a new appreciation for Lake Manyara’s hidden beauty.
Included in the Day Trip
- 4×4 safari vehicle with open roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Park entry fees
- Packed picnic lunch & bottled water
- Pick-up & drop-off from Arusha, Karatu, or Mto wa Mbu