Lake Manyara National Park

At only 330 kilometers, much of which is taken up by the lake, Lake Manyara National Park is one of the Northern Circuit’s smallest parks. However, its diminutive size is well compensated for by its fascinating ecosystem and abundance of wildlife and birds. The lake itself is home to several groups of hippopotamus and species of birds including pelicans and storks. The number of trees in the park’s forest area, fed by underground springs is home to a variety of monkeys and large troupes of baboons. Larger mammals including elephants, Cape buffalo, and giraffes can be spotted in the park. Manyara also has a reputation for tree-climbing lions. In truth, all lions climb trees and there is a chance to spot this in any of the parks. 

At the foot of the Rift Valley escarpment, the wall forms a dramatic backdrop and borderline to the park. Perched at the top of the escarpment are some of the popular lodges for this area. There is one luxury tree lodge in the park.