Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge occupies a rare position: perched on the edge of the western escarpment of the Rift Valley, it overlooks Lake Manyara from the cliff. Its 26 rooms with private terraces, restaurant, outdoor pool and craft shop make it a comfortable base for exploring Lake Manyara National Park and the major parks of northern Tanzanie.

Why choose this lodge

Three elements set this 4-star pavilion apart: its direct vantage point overlooking the lake, its immediate proximity to Lake Manyara National Park, and a programme of activities that extends far beyond classic 4x4 safari drives. Birdwatching walks accompanied by a resident naturalist, canoe safaris, cycling or horseback excursions, cultural visits to neighbouring communities: the range of experiences on offer allows you to vary your approach to the park over several days.

Atmosphere

The interior design follows a traditional African style, with local materials and motifs that characterise both common areas and rooms. The lodge's rhythm follows that of the lake: observing pink flamingos at sunrise from the terraces, returning from safari in late afternoon, dining with a view of the escarpment. The large outdoor pool, surrounded by gardens, extends your days in the bush.

The rooms

The lodge has 26 rooms, each with a private terrace overlooking the park and lake. The décor follows traditional African design codes. Each room features a bed with mosquito netting and a bathroom equipped with a shower and bathtub. The panoramic view from the terrace is the main asset, with pink flamingos gliding in the waters below.

Services and dining

The restaurant serves local and international cuisine, with service available on the terrace facing the landscape. The outdoor pool, bordered by gardens, is open to guests. A local craft shop allows you to take home items made in the region. The lodge organises all activities on-site: simply book at reception.

Location and access

The lodge stands on the cliff overlooking Lake Manyara, on the road leading to the major northern parks (Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti). Lake Manyara Airport (LKY) is approximately 3.8 km away. From Arusha, several options are available: direct flight to Lake Manyara, budget bus (longer journey), or a car drive of around 2 hours. Final access is via the village of Mto Wa Mbu, the mandatory stopping point before the escarpment.

What to see around the lodge

Lake Manyara covers 330 km² and is home to over 380 bird species. Its reputation rests on two phenomena: thousands of pink flamingos colouring its alkaline waters, and tree-climbing lions that rest on acacia branches. The park is particularly suited to observation from the water and on foot, as a complement to vehicle circuits.

The lodge also makes a logical stopping point on the route through the major northern parks. To extend your trip, several other addresses in the same region deserve a visit: the Karatu Simba Lodge on the Ngorongoro route, or the Gran Melia Arusha for an urban stop before or after your safari. For a beach extension in Zanzibar, see Kinasi Lodge or Breezes Beach Club & Spa.

Preparing your stay

Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge fits naturally into an itinerary combining the northern parks and, if desired, a coastal extension. To build a bespoke route incorporating this stop, consult our Tanzanie trips.