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Beyond Manyara Region
Manyara Region trip ideas
Two elephants on the grassy field in the Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.

Things to do in  Manyara Region

Enter the lion’s den

Wedged between the Great Rift Valley and Lake Manyara, Tanzania’s Manyara Region is often overlooked by travelers rushing to the neighboring Serengeti National Park. While it’s indisputable that the Serengeti is spectacular, this nature-rich region has its own claims to fame: the Tarangire National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. That said, things to do here mostly involve spotting wild animals on safari, though cultural options include exploring traditional Maasai villages and soaking in hot springs.

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All about Manyara Region

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When to visit

While you can spot wildlife in the Manyara Region year-round, animals are most abundant during the dry season (June–October), when they tend to gather around scarcer water sources. The high season is from July to September, so expect crowds during this time. The wet season (November–March) is when the landscapes of Manyara are at their lushest and waterfalls flow with vigor; it’s also the best time to spot migratory birds, though it can be more difficult to navigate the roads.

Getting around

Because Lake Manyara National Park is part of Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit, Kilimanjaro International Airport in Arusha serves as the point of entry to the Manyara Region. From there, it’s a 1.5-hour drive via relatively good roads. While you can explore the region using public minibuses, they don’t tend to follow a set schedule and are typically crowded. It’s best to explore as part of a safari tour in a 4WD vehicle that can tackle the rough roads of the national parks.

Traveler tips

Lake Manyara National Park is often combined with trips to Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, so it sees plenty of visitors during the high season. However, if you want a crowd-free experience of the Manyara Region, head to Tarangire National Park, famous for its huge concentration of African elephants and landscapes dotted with huge acacia and baobab trees. It’s also home to migratory wildebeests, zebras, buffalo, impalas, and much more.

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People Also Ask
Q:What are the main cities and towns in the Manyara Region?
A:

The capital of the Manyara Region is Babati, a rural town that’s the gateway to Lake Babati, a reed-flanked body of water where you’ll find hippos and a smattering of hotels. Other major areas include Hanang District, most famous for the 11,220-foot (3,420-meter) Mount Hanang.

Q:What are the main attractions in the Manyara Region?
A:

The main attractions in the Manyara Region are Lake Manyara National Park, a UNESCO–listed expanse with tree-climbing lions; Tarangire National Park, home to hundreds of African elephants; and Mto Wa Mbu village, where you can learn about the cultural history of the Masaai people through tours.

Q:What activities can you do in the Manyara Region?
A:

Many of the attractions in the Manyara Region revolve around wildlife, with safari tours and birdwatching being the most popular activities. There are a range of guided tours available, including night game drives, boat rides, and walking safaris, which allow you the opportunity to (safely) encounter smaller animals and track big game.

Q:Are there any must-try dishes you should eat in the Manyara Region?
A:

Yes, there are several must-try dishes that take advantage of the fresh produce grown in the Manyara Region. Highlights include the ubiquitous ugali, a porridge made by adding maize flour to boiling water, and pilau, a spicy rice dish that often includes slow-cooked mutton or lamb.

Q:What animals can you see in the Manyara Region?
A:

Animals you can see in the Manyara Region include lions, elephants, impalas, zebras, giraffes, hippos, buffalo, wildebeests, and hyenas. The region isn't as famous for its big cats as the Serengeti, but its birdlife is majestic: You can spot crowned hornbills, little bee-eaters, and vultures.

Q:How many days should you spend in the Manyara Region?
A:

If you’re visiting the Manyara Region as part of a wider safari and have limited time, one day is enough; you can spend an afternoon exploring Lake Manyara National Park on a game drive and visit a Masaai village. Two days is ideal, as you can add a trip to Tarangire National Park.

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