Manyara National Park
Manyara National Park is spectacular - the Rift Valley escarpment looms in the distance, forming an impressive backdrop to the beautiful lake. Despite the fact that Manyara National Park only covers an area of 330 square kilometers (127 square miles), more than half of which is lake surface, it contains a wide variety of habitats: ground water forest, acacia woodland, areas of open grassland, lake shores and swampland. It’s no wonder this park supports over 380 different species of birds, and a large variety of mammals and reptiles.
You will also have the opportunity to spend a fantastic evening in Manyara Park: a night game drive on which you could spot nocturnal animals such as bush babies, porcupines, civets as well as hippos grazing on land – unheard of during the daytime.
Mto wa Mbu
Close to Manyara lies Mto wa Mbu, a typical Tanzanian village. If you are interested, you can take a walk with your local guide to experience village life and culture, visiting local schools, the hospital, the village bar, and even residents in their homes.
If it’s exercise you want, then get on your bike! The route takes you down the Great Rift Valley escarpment with stunning views over Manyara Park. You then bike around Mto wa Mbu, stopping here and there to catch a glimpse of village life, and end at the park border.
ACCOMMODATION IN THE MANYARA AREA
Kirurumu Tented Lodge is a comfortable, permanent camp set high on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, with a great view of Lake Manyara. If you want to sleep in a tent without sacrificing any modern day conveniences, then this camp is ideal.
The rooms have en-suite bathrooms, and they are designed as part tent, part permanent building. There is a good bar with a great sun deck - perfect for enjoying the view with a sundowner. This particular area of Manyara is exclusive to this mid-range establishment.
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is the only lodge situated within Lake Manyara National Park - to the far south, away from the busier park gate. It is nestled within a mahogany, wild mango and fig tree forest. As with all lodges belonging to the And Beyond group, Lake Manyara offers excellent service, luxury as well as top quality guiding.
The design of the unique tree house cabins manages to be stylish and contemporary without imposing on its surrounding bush. Minimalist furniture and clever lighting juxtaposed with well placed African carvings result in a sophisticated, refined atmosphere - a wonderful experience for the premium traveller.
