Pick Up from Your Hotel in Arusha

• Begin your day with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Arusha. Enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive through traditional Maasai villages and vast open plains as you make your way to Lake Manyara National Park.

Arrival at Lake Manyara National Park

• Upon arrival, your guide will give a brief introduction to the park. Known for its striking scenery, including dense groundwater forests, open grasslands, and the sparkling alkaline lake, Lake Manyara is a gem in Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.

Morning Game Drive

• Set off on your first game drive, where you’ll explore the diverse habitats that make Lake Manyara a haven for wildlife. Drive through the lush forests and open savannahs, spotting giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and large troops of baboons, which are a common sight here.
• Be on the lookout for the park’s famous tree-climbing lions, often seen lounging in the branches of acacia trees, and keep your eyes open for elephants as they move through the thick woodlands.

Picnic Lunch by the Lake

• Stop for a scenic picnic lunch near Lake Manyara’s shores. While you enjoy your meal, you can take in the incredible views of the lake, often dotted with thousands of pink flamingos. The surrounding wetlands are perfect for spotting water birds such as pelicans, cormorants, and herons.

Afternoon Game Drive

• Continue your game drive after lunch, exploring more of the park’s diverse ecosystems. As you head towards the lake’s edge, enjoy the sight of wildlife gathering to drink, including antelope, hippos, and occasionally, predators like lions or leopards.
• Lake Manyara is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds recorded. Your guide will help you spot both resident and migratory species, making it a memorable experience for any bird lover.

Visit to the Hot Springs

• As part of your drive, visit the park’s hot springs (Maji Moto), where underground geothermal activity heats the waters. These bubbling springs, surrounded by grassy plains, offer a unique natural attraction and great photo opportunities.

Depart for Arusha

• After an exciting day exploring the park, begin your journey back to Arusha. Enjoy the scenic drive as you reflect on your wildlife experiences.

Drop Off at Your Hotel

• Arrive back at your hotel in Arusha by early evening, completing your day trip with unforgettable memories of Lake Manyara’s natural wonders.

• Lake Manyara National Park is a year-round destination, with the wet season (November to May) being best for birdwatching and the dry season (June to October) for large mammal viewing.
• The park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife make it a fantastic day-trip destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.