How to Plan Your Day Trip to Lake Manyara National Park in Arusha

If you are planning to visit Tanzania, don’t miss out on the opportunity to book a day trip to Lake Manyara National Park, one of the best parks in the country. With more than 400 bird species, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and even tree-climbing lions, the park is a great place to experience the wild side of Africa. In this blog post, we will take you through all the necessary steps to plan your perfect day trip to Lake Manyara National Park.

Step 1: Choose Your Tour Company and Book

The first step is to choose a reliable tour company that offers a day trip to Lake Manyara National Park. One such company is GetYourGuide, which offers a classic drive safari that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the entry fee into the park, and a tour guide. The GetYourGuide tour includes a classic drive safari that will take you through the park to see Manyara’s tree-climbing lions, wildebeests, giraffes, zebras, and large buffalos grazing on the grassy banks of the lake. You will also get to enjoy your lunch in the middle of the National Park while admiring the amazing view of the lake. To book the tour, simply follow this link: book the tour here.

Step 2: Pack Your Essentials

Before you embark on your trip, make sure to pack all the essentials. We recommend you bring comfortable, lightweight clothing, as well as sturdy shoes or boots for walking. You should also pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture your memories at the park.

Step 3: Know the Rules of the Park

Before you visit Lake Manyara National Park, it is important to be familiar with the rules of the park. Remember that you are only allowed to stay within the designated areas for visitors, and it is strictly prohibited to leave your vehicle or to disturb the animals. Feeding the animals is also against the rules and is harmful to their health, and smoking is not allowed in the park.

Step 4: Arrive Early

To make the most of your visit, we recommend arriving at the park as early as possible. The park opens daily at 6:00 am, and the early morning hours are the best time to see the animals in action. The park is less crowded in the morning and the weather is cooler than later in the day.

Step 5: Listen to Your Guide

During the tour, your guide will provide you with valuable information about the park’s wildlife, habitats, and conservation efforts. Listen carefully to your guide and follow their directions at all times to ensure your safety and to minimize your impact on the environment.

Step 6: Respect the Animals and the Environment

Remember that Lake Manyara National Park is home to a wide range of animals that are protected by law. It is your responsibility to respect their space and to avoid causing any harm to them. You should also respect the environment by not littering or leaving any trash behind. Take only pictures and memories, and leave nothing behind.

In Book Your Tour Now

A day trip to Lake Manyara National Park is an incredible experience that you will never forget. To make the most of your visit, make sure to choose a reliable tour company, pack your essentials, know the rules and arrive early. Listen to your guide, respect the animals and the environment, and you will have an unforgettable time at this beautiful park. Book your tour now and get ready for an adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions about Arusha

1. What is Arusha?

Arusha is a city in Northern Tanzania, situated at the foot of Mount Meru. It is the capital of the Arusha Region and is sometimes referred to as the “safari capital” due to its close proximity to some of Tanzania’s most famous national parks, such as the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Lake Manyara.

2. How do I get to Arusha?

Arusha has an international airport, Kilimanjaro International Airport, which is a major hub for tourists visiting the region. Many airlines operate daily flights from major cities to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Alternatively, there are several domestic airlines that operate flights to Arusha Airport, which is located within the city limits.

3. What is the best time to visit Arusha?

The best time to visit Arusha is during the dry season, which lasts from June to October. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, making it perfect for wildlife sightings and outdoor activities. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.

4. What are the main tourist attractions in Arusha?

Arusha is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater
• Lake Manyara National Park
• Arusha National Park
• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Maasai Market

5. What is the climate like in Arusha?

Arusha has a subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The temperature remains fairly consistent throughout the year, ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. The wet season occurs from November to May, while the dry season occurs from June to October.

6. Do I need a visa to visit Arusha?

Yes, visitors to Tanzania do require a visa. It is advised to obtain a visa before travelling, however, visas can be obtained on arrival at the airport or via the Tanzanian embassy.

7. What currency is used in Arusha?

The official currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling. Most establishments in Arusha accept US Dollars, Euros and Pounds Sterling, but it is recommended to carry some Tanzanian Shillings for small purchases.

8. What languages are spoken in Arusha?

The official language of Tanzania is Swahili, however, English is also widely spoken in tourist areas, including Arusha. Additionally, many of the local tribes, such as the Maasai, have their own languages.

9. Is Arusha safe for tourists?

Arusha, like any other city, has its share of crime. However, the majority of tourists experience no issues during their stay. It is important to take basic precautions, such as avoiding travelling alone at night, not flashing expensive items, and keeping valuables out of sight.

10. What is the local cuisine in Arusha?

Arusha offers a variety of local and international cuisine. Local dishes include ugali (maize meal), nyama choma (roasted meat), and pilau (spiced rice). However, there are also many international restaurants that serve a range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Italian.

Book Your Tour Now

Arusha is a vibrant and diverse city, offering something for everyone. Whether you are interested in wildlife, culture, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Arusha has plenty to offer. By following the tips and information provided in this FAQ, you will be well-prepared for your trip to this incredible city.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Arusha

Arusha is a bustling town in Tanzania that is a gateway to several wildlife parks in the region, including Serengeti, Kilimanjaro, and Tarangire National Parks. It is also an essential stopover for anyone embarking on a safari tour in Africa. With its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and hospitable people, Arusha offers numerous exciting activities and cultural experiences to tourists. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Arusha.

1. Visit Arusha National Park

One of the most popular attractions in Arusha is Arusha National Park, which is around 33 km from the town. The park is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including the Colobus Monkey and the African Elephant. Besides wildlife, Arusha National Park features rivers, swamps, and a beautiful crater lake called Momella. Visitors can take part in guided walking safaris for better exploration of the park. There are also options for day trips, including hiking Mount Meru, which gives one a bird’s eye view of the area.

2. Experience Local Cultures

Arusha is home to various tribes who have managed to preserve their traditions and way of life over the years. Tourists can experience these cultures by visiting local villages such as the Maasai and the Meru. The locals are friendly and always eager to show tourists their way of life, from traditional dances to their cuisine. You can also learn about their customs and beliefs on guided tours. For souvenir shopping, visit Maasai Market, where you can find handcrafted artifacts to take home.

3. Take a Coffee Tour

Arusha is in the heart of coffee growing regions, and tourists can enjoy a coffee tour to learn about the entire process of brewing a cup of coffee. At the coffee plantation, you can learn about the different varieties of coffee beans and how they are harvested and roasted. Some coffee tours will even allow you to roast and grind your coffee and enjoy a cup while on tour. Besides coffee, tea tours are also available in the area.

4. Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro

Tourists visiting Arusha can also tackle the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro. The mountain has several routes to the summit for tourists of varying levels of experience. The most popular routes include Marangu and Machame. As you ascend the mountain, you will experience different climatic zones, from rainforest to alpine desert. When planning to climb Kilimanjaro, ensure you have the necessary gear and hire experienced guides and porters for safety.

5. Visit the Olduvai Gorge

The Olduvai Gorge is a prehistoric site in the Great Rift Valley and is famous for its archeological finds, making it one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world. The site contains some of the earliest human fossils discovered, dating back over two million years ago. Visitors can take guided tours through the site and learn more about the history of humanity.

6. Enjoy Waterfalls and Hot Springs

Arusha has several waterfalls and hot springs that tourists can visit for a soothing experience. Materuni Waterfall is around 30km from Arusha town and is renowned for its stunning beauty. Visitors can hike through the lush forest, swim in the waterfall pool, or just enjoy the magnificent view of the falls. Hot springs are also available in Chemka and Kikuletwa.

Book Your Tour Now

Arusha is a diverse tourist destination with various attractions for tourists to enjoy. From wildlife safaris to cultural tours, there’s something for everyone who visits this vibrant town. Tourists are always encouraged to respect and enjoy the local cultures while exploring. With proper planning, tourists can make the most of their trip to Arusha and create lasting memories.