Lake Manyara National Park

When planning a trip to Lake Manyara National Park, located in a picturesque region of Tanzania, many travellers look for the optimal routes to begin their safari. This unique biosphere reserve, famous for its tree-climbing lions and vast flocks of pink flamingos, is easily accessible for both organised tour groups and independent explorers of Africa. You can reach the park in various ways: by a direct flight on a light aircraft, by car along scenic roads, or as part of a bus tour from neighbouring cities.

The fastest and most scenic way to find yourself in the centre of the wilderness is by air. Directly bordering the reserve is Lake Manyara Airport (LKY), which receives scheduled light aviation flights from other national parks and major transport hubs in the country. This small airfield provides convenient logistics for those wishing to save travel time.

If direct flights are unavailable, travellers often choose to fly into nearby major cities, such as Arusha (about 106 km from the park) or Moshi (179 km). Another convenient connecting point can be Seronera, located 166 km away, especially if you are combining visits to several Tanzanian reserves.

At present, there is no direct railway connection to Lake Manyara National Park, and there is no train station in the immediate vicinity of the reserve. Trains in Tanzania are rarely used by tourists for "Northern Circuit" safari trips due to the limited route network and slow travel speeds.

The nearest points theoretically accessible by rail (although this is not the most popular option) are the cities of Arusha and Moshi. From there, travellers will still need to transfer to road transport to cover the remaining 100–180 kilometres to the park entrance.

Although there is no official data on direct scheduled buses straight into the park, the main hub for such trips is the city of Arusha. Tourist shuttles as well as local minibuses (dala-dala) depart from here towards the village of Mto wa Mbu, which serves as the gateway to the reserve. The journey on such transport usually takes several hours, but it is the most budget-friendly way to reach the destination.

For a more comfortable journey, it is recommended to book seats in advance on specialised safari buses that operate between popular locations, such as Moshi and Seronera. Travelling by public transport in Tanzania is a distinct adventure requiring patience, but it allows you to observe local life from the inside.

Travelling by car is one of the most popular ways to visit Lake Manyara National Park, as the road to it is fully paved and in good condition. The most sought-after route begins in the city of Arusha: the distance is about 152 km, which usually takes around 4 hours of scenic driving.

Many tourists also arrive from other popular points: the journey from Seronera (about 230 km) will take approximately 5.8 hours, while the road from the city of Moshi, spanning 242 km, will require about 6 hours. For such trips, it is best to hire a reliable SUV with a driver or use taxi services, agreeing on the fare in advance.

Preparing for a visit to a national park in Tanzania requires attention to detail to ensure your safari is comfortable and safe. Here are some practical recommendations to help you get the most enjoyment out of your trip to this amazing corner of nature.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Choose clothing in neutral colours (khaki, beige) so as not to startle animals or attract insects. Mornings and evenings can be cool, so be sure to bring a fleece jacket or a light coat. Modest clothing is also appreciated in local towns.
2. Transport: Movement within the park is permitted only in vehicles, preferably 4x4s with pop-up roofs for better viewing. You may only exit the vehicle in specially designated picnic zones.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling, but US Dollars (notes issued after 2009) are widely accepted for payment. It is better to carry cash, as card terminals may operate intermittently.
4. Health and Safety: Use insect repellents, as the region is a malaria risk zone. Also, beware of tsetse flies, whose bites can be painful; avoid blue and black clothing, which attracts them.
5. Communication: The official languages are Swahili and English. Hotel staff, guides, and rangers usually speak good English, so communication issues should not arise.
6. Local Etiquette: Tanzanians are very welcoming. It is customary to greet people (the word "Jambo" is an excellent option) before starting a conversation. Always ask for permission before photographing local residents.
7. What to Avoid: Strictly do not feed wild animals—this is dangerous for you and harmful to them. Also, avoid making noise during the safari so as not to scare away the park's inhabitants.
8. Additional Tip: Be sure to bring good binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. Lake Manyara is famous for its birds, and without optics, you risk missing many colourful details.

Following these simple rules will make your journey to Lake Manyara National Park an unforgettable and safe adventure in the heart of Africa.