Parks & Driving Time
A good route balances wildlife areas with realistic road time so the trip does not feel like a race between parks.
A day trip to Lake Manyara National Park is an exciting chance to get a feel for the real Africa. Lake Manyara is an unspoiled paradise of groundwater lakes fed by underground springs and teeming with wildlife. One of Africa's premier birding destinations, it's also a fantastic place to see Africa's most iconic animals from massive elephants and cape buffalo to the famous tree-climbing lions who call the park home.!!
You'll depart from Moshi or Arusha after breakfast and begin the drive to Lake Manyara National Park. The journey takes approximately two hours, but we'll pass through the market town of Mto Wa Mbu along the way. This agricultural and fresh produce market is a melting pot of local cultures and a souvenir hunter's paradise.
After a brief stop at the village market, you'll enter Lake Manyara National Park. The park is truly a photographer's playground and offers some of the best game viewing in the world. You can expect to see many of Africa's most well-known animals, with the tree-climbing lions a particular treat. These proud predators lounge in acacia trees practically begging to be photographed. Bird-watchers will find Lake Manyara is an absolute delight, with a huge variety of birds on display in the park. Even the novice can expect to be amazed by large flamingo flocks, circling birds of prey, and the brightly coloured lilac breasted roller..
You'll return to Moshi or Arusha in the late afternoon. Under the right conditions, it is also possible to take a guided canoe safari out on the lake. Consult your safari expert to see if this activity will be available for your visit.
Tanzania safari planning is more than selecting a number of days. Park combinations, driving time, season, accommodation style and the balance between game drives and rest all matter. Use the itinerary above as a starting point, then discuss your dates and priorities with the Peaceful Expeditions team.
A good route balances wildlife areas with realistic road time so the trip does not feel like a race between parks.
Camping, lodge, tented-camp and luxury options can change the character and cost of a safari. Final properties depend on availability.
Wildlife is present year-round, but migration movements, calving, rainfall and road conditions vary. Specific sightings cannot be guaranteed.