VISITOR GUIDE
Everything you need for a Rift Valley safari
Getting There
Lake Manyara National Park lies along the northern safari circuit, just south of the town of Mto wa Mbu. By road it’s ~2–2.5 hours (≈125 km) from Arusha on a good tarmac route. The park’s main gate is close to Mto wa Mbu at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Manyara Airstrip receives scheduled/charter flights; transfers to lodges and the park gate are readily arranged.
Accommodation
Stay inside the park at lakeside camps/lodges (limited capacity), or in nearby Mto wa Mbu and Karatu where there’s a wide range from budget guesthouses to boutique lodges. Many travelers combine Manyara with Ngorongoro/Serengeti; day visits and overnights are both popular.
Entry Fees
Fees follow TANAPA’s official tariff (vary by age, residency, vehicle and activity). Additional charges can apply for night game drives (where permitted), boardwalks/special sites and professional filming/photography. Keep your ID/passport and receipts available for gate checks.
Regulations
Help protect wetlands and groundwater forests: remain on designated roads/boardwalks, do not litter, and never feed wildlife (baboons and monkeys are common near picnic sites). Observe speed limits, keep noise low around bird roosts and hippo pools, and respect ranger/guide instructions.
Visitor Safety
Stay inside your vehicle except at designated points and boardwalks. Keep a respectful distance from elephants and hippo pools, and never approach tree-climbing lions. Secure food from primates at picnic sites. Carry water, sun protection and insect repellent; dusk can be buggy near the lake. Follow all ranger guidance and posted signage, especially during rains when some routes may be temporarily closed.
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