Eye Opening Facts About Lake Manyara National Park : Lake Manyara National Park is one of the fascinating destinations in the Northern Circuit. With a total area of 335 square kilometers, it is one of the smallest parks in Tanzania. Moreover, about two thirds of Lake Manyara National Park is taken by Lake Manyara, an alkaline lake situated in Arusha. Thousands of safari-goers visit this alluring park though it is never overcrowded. Plenty of myths about this majestic park keep sparkling from those who haven’t been in Lake Manyara. Here are some facts about the magnificent Lake Manyara National Park.
The tree-climbing lions
What attracts visitors to Lake Manyara National Park are the unique species of lions, the tree-climbing lions. These species are very scarce to find, and are found in few places in the world such as Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda and Kruger National Park in South Africa. However, they are highly concentrated in Lake Manyara National Park where they are always seen resting on acacia branches on a game drive. They have extra skill of hunting of hiding in lush branches of trees waiting for the prey to cross by and jump towards it.
Flamingos on Lake Manyara’s shores
Thousands of colorful pink flamingos surround the shallow shores of this soda lake making the lake to appear pinkish at a far look. These beautiful water birds are usually concentrated in alkaline lakes because they are after blue-green spirulina algae which they feed on.
Diverse wildlife
Lake Manyara National Park is home to a variety of wild animals including zebras, wildebeests, hartebeests, lions, leopards, Maasai giraffes, lions, warthogs, Cape buffalos, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, mongooses, monkeys, bushbucks, antelopes, hyenas and the tusked elephants which are encountered in large herds. Game drives reward with scenic views of herds of wildebeests, zebras, Cape buffalos and warthogs.
Attractive birds
Another eye-opening fact about Lake Manyara National Park is its richness in avian species. Some call it a “world’s best bird-watching site” hosting over 400 bird species, three of which are world’s rare and endangered species. Migratory species of birds comes from Lake Natron to Lake Manyara searching for food. Some other bird species that you may encounter in this park include Grey-crowned crane, Fischer’s sparrow lark, Crowned Plover, turkey, yellow-billed storks, marabou storks, goose and the most beautiful pink lesser flamingos. Therefore, birders will experience unforgettable safari.
Stunning topography
Lake Manyara National Park is found in the Great Valley escarpment with thrilling scenes of hills and valleys. The escarpments are the best places for hiking and biking safaris. You can hike through high hills like Kirurumo and Balaa hills which offer an acclimatization exercise before going for highest peaks like Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro. Another feature in Lake Manyara is its stunning vegetation which is made of acacia trees, shrubs and baobab trees. There are some oldest baobab trees in Lake Manyara. For instance, an oldest baobab with over 100 years is a favorite spot for taking pictures and is preferred by most safari-goers.
The name “Lake Manyara”
If you are wondering on where the name “Manyara” comes from, here is an interesting story for you. It comes from the Maasai word ‘Manyara’ which is a Euphorbia tirucalli plant that is used by the Maasai people as a fencing alternative. The fences are used to protect livestock from fleeing or stolen and from being taken by thieves and predators.
Diverse activities
Another interesting fact about Lake Manyara National Park is what you can do while inside this stunning park. Some once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Lake Manyara include;
Treetop walkway; Have you experienced walking on top of tall trees? Lake Manyara is your perfect spot. Treetop walkway is a 370-meter walk on top of the trees at an altitude of 17-18 meters above the ground. With the treetop survey, you are given enough time to explore the attractive species of birds, monkeys and other rare fauna. You can engage in photographing beautiful scenes of your choices.
Canoeing; this is an unforgettable experience in an alkaline lake to explore lots of beautiful scenes including the attractive aquatic animals, water and the eye-catching pink flamingos.
Game drive; either on an open or closed vehicle, a drive through the wilderness of Lake Manyara is exceptionally rewarding. You will encounter fantastic wild animals as well as viewing the stunning vegetation.
Birdwatching; for fans of avian species and ornithologists, Lake Manyara is a perfect stop. Both migratory and non-migratory birds are always encountered.
Truly speaking, Lake Manyara National Park is small but it is very rich in exceptional alluring attractions which differentiates it from the destinations in Tanzania and Africa as whole. For having an anesthetic experience in the wilderness of this exotic park, consider planning a trip. It is high time that you consult one of the experienced tour consultants from East African Safari Guides, and they will prepare for you the best safari program.
