Currently seeing:
Lake Manyara with mountains of Tanzania's Rift Valley escarpment rising behind calm waters and lush shoreline vegetation
DestinationLake Manyara
A Rift Valley soda lake where flamingoes turn the water’s edge pink.
Lake Manyara lies at the base of the towering Rift Valley escarpment, stretching like a shallow mirror across the valley floor. Classified as a soda lake, its alkaline waters support dense blooms of algae that, in turn, attract thousands of flamingoes at Lake Manyara, turning the shoreline a striking band of pink when conditions are right. Beyond flamingos, the lake is rich in birdlife, with pelicans, storks, and herons among the more than 400 species recorded here. It’s a magnet for travellers interested in birdwatching in Tanzania, often included as part of a wider safari itinerary through the northern circuit. The surrounding groundwater forests and open plains also support elephants, baboons, and other wildlife that drift down to the lake’s edge. Visitors can easily reach the lake via the Manyara airstrip, making it a natural stopover between Ngorongoro and Tarangire or the Serengeti. Activities range from classic Lake Manyara safaris along its shoreline to more unusual experiences such as horseback riding nearby or exploring cultural villages along the valley. For many travellers, the appeal of Lake Manyara is its contrasts: a shimmering soda lake filled with birds, framed by the steep cliffs of the Great Rift Valley, and tied deeply to both wildlife and human life in northern Tanzania.
Find Lake Manyara on the map
Best time to go to Lake Manyara
The best time to visit Lake Manyara is from June to October, when water levels are lower, wildlife gathers at the shoreline, and conditions are best for activities around the lake. The green season (November–May) brings dramatic scenery, lush vegetation, and peak birdwatching, with flamingoes and other waterbirds in abundance when lake conditions are right. For travellers planning a Tanzania safari itinerary, dry months deliver reliable wildlife viewing, while wet months reward birders and photographers with vibrant landscapes.
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Where to stay in Lake Manyara
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Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
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Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerFrom the first contact to trip preparation and implementation as well as support during the trip, Viatu always acted very professionally. Our wishes and the given financial framework were taken into account. The hotels, the food, the activities - everything was excellent and highly recommended.
Nadja
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerWe loved using the Viatu Trip Builder to design our holidays in South Africa. It was super easy and transparent. Our holidays were great and the few times we needed support, our consultant Benoit was very quick and helpful.
Anita
Verified TravellerI'm very thankful for my first Viatu experience. The 3-week trip across Namibia combined incredible landscapes and nature, mindblowing eco-friendly lodges and utter peace of mind. The organisation and support of the Viatu team were spot-on - this is the way to impress. Thanks a lot!
Christoph
Verified TravellerWe booked our honeymoon with Viatu. From the first minute on, we had good communication going with our travel agent, and she suggested a very nice itinerary right away. After some little adjustments that were easily done, we were ready to go.
Nora
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified Traveller