The best months to visit Lake Manyara are Nov – Feb, Jun – Oct. Flamingos Nov–Feb, dry game viewing Jun–Oct.
Quick facts
When to go
Tree-climbing lions in ancient forest, flamingo flocks painting an alkaline lake pink, and the Great Rift Valley plunging 600 metres to the water below.
Nov – Feb, Jun – Oct is the busiest window in Lake Manyara, so accommodation and flights go first. Book ahead. The shoulder weeks either side are usually quieter for the same reason.
What to Pack in Lake Manyara
- Binoculars essential: flamingos and tree-climbing lions are often distant
- Camera with telephoto lens (200mm+) for wildlife photography
- Long sleeves and trousers for tsetse fly protection, sunscreen, hat
For month-by-month detail, itineraries and costs, see the full Lake Manyara travel guide.
Timezone: EAT (UTC+3) (No daylight saving)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Lake Manyara?
The best months to visit Lake Manyara are Nov – Feb, Jun – Oct (Flamingos Nov–Feb, dry game viewing Jun–Oct), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Lake Manyara budget breakdown.
