Lake Manyara

Founded in 1960, The Lake Manyara National Park is relatively small in size - measured at 325 square kilometres. It has a vast amount of rich vegetation, and tourists are often amazed at how intriguing the park really is. The park has only one road, which is situated on the western shore of the lake. The dramatic western escarpment, drops several hundred metres to Rift Valley, which is surrounded by the lake. It can be noted that two-thirds of the park’s area is often covered by this lake, depending on the season.

Lake Manyara was named in accordance to the Massai people, descendants of the north-west Lake Manyara. The name “Manyara” has been derived from a thorny plant specie, which was grown into a hedge-like bush in order to protect their cattle from predators.

Due to the Park’s rich diversity in vegetation, a varied range of savanna grasslands, marshes and acacia woodlands are adequately supported by the park, as are a variety of wildlife habitats. Part of the vegetation on the slopes of the escarpment have been severely burnt by fires.

Lake Manyara’s diverse vegetation is ideal for zebras, rhinoceros, buffalos, impalas and giraffes. The park also contains over 380 different bird species, that make the park the attraction that it is.

Due to Tanzania’s varying geographical aspects, the climatic conditions differ. Overall, Tanzania is subject to tropical conditions. The plateau is relatively hot during the day and cool at night, due to its dry and arid land. The north-west temperature is much cooler and temperate. During the months of June and September, it is much cooler. However, from March to May there is a series of “Long Rains”, and the “Short Rains” are experienced during October and December.

The hottest months are between October and February. During November and December, and between March and May the coast experiences their share of rain. During June and September, the coastal areas are subject to humid conditions but also cool sea breezes.