Currently seeing:
Large flock of pink flamingos wading in shallow waters of Momela Lakes, Arusha National Park, with green shoreline
DestinationMomela Lakes
Shimmering alkaline lakes alive with flamingoes, hippos, and birdlife at the foot of Mount Meru.
The Momela Lakes are a chain of shallow alkaline lakes within Arusha National Park, forming one of the most scenic highlights of the Northern Tanzania safari circuit. Set against the backdrop of Mount Meru, these colourful crater lakes in Tanzania are fed by underground streams, each with a different mineral composition that gives them distinctive shades of green, turquoise, and blue. The lakes are particularly famous for flocks of flamingoes, which gather to feed on algae and create vivid pink contrasts against the water. Along the shores, visitors often spot waterbuck, giraffe, and troops of baboons, while hippos wallow in the shallows. With over 400 species recorded, the area is a haven for birdwatching, ranging from pelicans to African fish eagles. Unlike many safari destinations, the Momela Lakes in Tanzania can be explored not only by vehicle but also on canoe safaris, offering a quieter, more intimate perspective of the wildlife. Day trips from Arusha make the lakes an easy addition before or after larger safaris to Serengeti or Ngorongoro, while game drives within the park connect the lakes with the forests and highlands of Mount Meru.
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Best time to go to Momela Lakes
The best time to visit the Momela Lakes is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife is easier to spot and canoeing conditions are at their best. This is also an excellent time for clear views of Mount Meru. The wet season from November to May brings lush scenery and an increase in birdlife, with flamingoes especially abundant when water levels are right. For travellers on the Northern Tanzania safari circuit, both seasons are rewarding: the dry months for reliable game viewing, and the green season for birdwatching and dramatic lake colours.
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Verified TravellerThe recommended accommodations were perfect for us and everything was as expected. Even though we booked on very short notice, everything went smoothly and was well managed by Viatu.
Jan
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
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 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.
Stefano
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 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 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 TravellerThe recommended accommodations were perfect for us and everything was as expected. Even though we booked on very short notice, everything went smoothly and was well managed by Viatu.
Jan
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified Traveller