Tanzania: Lake Manyara National Park

Park Overview

This beautiful park has an appeal that far exceeds its modest 125 square mile (325 sq. km.) area. Lake Manyara has been a major attraction for seekers of wildlife since safari travel began. Along its western border lie the cliffs of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, and its eastern border runs along the shores of Lake Manyara. This area is quite the outdoor enthusiast's haven. Hiking and camping are both very accessible. Gameviewing is certainly the popular activity here, as there are plenty of animals to choose from. Heavy concentrations of wildlife inhabit this diverse landscape. Elephant, giraffe, lion, buffalo, and zebra are all to be found, in addition to many other game and bird species. Vegetation is dense, as forests of tamarind, mahogany, and fig trees cover the landscape.

Camps

Description

Price Range ($/person/night)

Kifaru

The main building is a converted farm house set in half acre gardens. It is located on the slopes of Ngorongoro near the boundary of the Ngorongoro Forest Reserve, overlooking the Karatu farm lands (one to two miles from Gibb's Farm in similar setting). A tennis court is located on the grounds. There is a small swimming pool but it needs to be repaired. The main building has a central living room, one dining room, and double & single rooms on either end. It serves a maximum of about eight people. There is a verandah overlooking the garden. There is a separate small building with rooms for up to five people. Dining will be in the main building. Finishing and furnishing are of high standard, as is the food. sited

 

Gibbs Farm

Gibb's Farm with its view over coffee plantations lies in rich and rolling agricultural land at the edge of the Great Rift Valley. At 5577 feet, the climate is pleasant and varied. Gibb's Farm was built in early twentieth century by Germans in brick-and-stone colonial style. Gibb's Farm is half-way betweenthe Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the gates of Lake Manyara National Park. It lies against the forest edge on the outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Craterlooking southeast to the Mbulu Hills. There are fifteen rooms, seven of them in separate cottages with bath or shower and maid service. The atmosphere is of a family guest house rather than a hotel. Most food is grown on the farm and is simple but of high quality. Coffee is grown, roasted and served on the farm. The sitting room has an open fire.

 

Maji Moto

Ten spacious tents, with full en suite bathrooms and showers open to the African sky, allude to some of the Arabian influences in Africa while basking in the dreamy shade of the forest. Banana thatched roofs open out to interactive features such as the open-air kitchen, involving guest in the flamboyant cooking of Africa. Fine cuisine and personalised service are an integral part of the "Grand Safari" ambience, with 4 x 4 vehicles setting out to explore the scenic wilderness beyond. Lying in a shallow depression at the base of the Rift Valley, the scenic Lake Manyara National Park is impressive in its variety of habitats and species. Most famous for its tree-climbing which drape themselves over branches of umbrella-shaped thorn trees to catch cool breezes, the reserve boasts over forty species of large mammals and some 380 birds.

 

Kirirumu

The luxury Kirurumu Tented Lodge, on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, overlooks Lake Manyara and its surrounding plains and mountains. The Lodge, in its unique setting, features spacious tents covered by thatched roofs and raised on local stone bases. Each tent has an en suite bathroom with shower, hand basin and flush toilet. Piping hot water is solar generated. All furniture is locally crafted and very comfortable. Delicious food is served in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere in the open dining are overlooking the Rift and Mount Losimongori. Join a guided walk in the nearby Kirurumu Gorge, home to numerous birds, butterflies and primates. Kirurumu's courteous and well-trained staff are on hand to cater all your needs.

 

Lake Manyara Serena

The Lodge sits on the edge of the Mto Wa Mbu escarpment, overlooking the Great Rift Valley and the stunning Manyara soda lake. Tree-climbing lions are but one lure. The extraordinary birdlife has made this place world-renowned among ornithologists, who come to observe the masses of pink flamingos and great birds of prey. The abundant birdlife inspired the lodge design. Curved patterns are complemented by soft, geometric patterns; stylish murals depict bird migration patterns. The circular shape of the buildings is a tribute to indigenous architectural traditions. Accommodation consists of sixty-seven en-suite rooms. Activities inlcude daily excursions into the Great Rift Valley and to the National Park. Walking safaris and nature walks are provided by experienced escorts.

 

 
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