Lake Manyara National Park Main Gate is the gateway and entrance point to lake Manyara national park, the home of pink flamingos and tree-climbing lions. Are you planning to visit Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania? If so, you should know that the park has two entrances, one in the north and one in the south. However, the main entrance is the Lake Manyara National Park main gate, located on the northern border. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the main gate, including how to get there, what to do, and the best time to visit.
What to Do There?
Once you arrive at the main gate, the first thing to do is to get your permits or pay for them if you haven’t already. The park uses an electronic system that requires visitors to scan their permits at entry or exit, so make sure you have your permits with you.
The gate is also an excellent point to get maps, rangers to escort you, or other information about the park. You can also find facilities onsite such as washrooms and a cafe. If you’re not sure where to start, the rangers can give you suggestions on the best routes to take depending on the time of day and your interests.
Best Time to Visit?
The good news is that any time of the year is a good time to visit Lake Manyara National Park because the roads that lead up to it are tarmac. However, keep in mind that the park can get crowded during peak season (June to September). If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the off-season (April to May and October to November).
Location of Lake Manyara National Park Main Gate
As we mentioned earlier, Lake Manyara National Park’s main gate is located next to the Mto wa Mbu – Ngorongoro highway, on the park’s northern end. The highway passes through the park, just a short distance after leaving Mto wa Mbu. The main gate is also located on the northern end of the groundwater forest, which is a significant attraction of the park.
How to Get There?
There are two ways to get to Lake Manyara National Park’s main gate, by air or by road. The Lake Manyara airstrip is a ten-minute drive away from the main gate and is serviced by several airlines. If you prefer to drive, you can take the Mto wa Mbu – Ngorongoro highway, which passes through the park, making the journey very scenic.
Several passenger buses pass through this highway, some of which go through Ngorongoro and Serengeti National Parks. However, keep in mind that even if you take the bus, you may still need a vehicle to get into the park. If you don’t have your vehicle, you can try to find one in Mto wa Mbu.
What Are Some of the Highlights of the Park?
Lake Manyara National Park is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, hippos, zebras, giraffes, and lions. It’s also home to over 400 species of birds, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts. The park’s groundwater forest is another highlight, with ancient mahogany and fig trees that attract many bird species.
Another attraction of the park is the lake itself, which is home to thousands of flamingos and other water birds. You can take a boat tour around the lake to get a closer look at the birds and other wildlife that inhabit the area.