Night game drive safaris in Lake Manyara National Park: Lake Manyara National Park offers a wilderness experience in diverse habitats, from its Rift Valley soda lake to dense woodlands and steep mountainsides. Apart from a spectacular setting, the park is famous for its unusual tree-climbing lions and the vast elephant herds it was established to protect. The shores of the lake, encrusted with pink flamingos, attract more than 400 species of birds, many of them waterfowl or migrants. Large herds of buffalo, cheetah, Masai giraffe, hippos, baboon, warthogs, elephants, cheetah, bat-eared fox, serval, honey badger, African civet, genet species, black rhinos, wildebeest, grant’s gazelle, zebras, spotted hyenas among others and impala roam the lake shores and the forested valley slopes. However, many of these animals are most active during the cooler hours of the night, making a night game drive an ideal opportunity to observe their nighttime behaviors.
Guided Night game drive safaris in Lake Manyara National Park offer visitors a chance to spot elusive nocturnal animals such as leopards, hyenas, genets, and bush babies. With the help of expert guides who are well-versed in the park’s wildlife, you will have the chance to witness these animals hunting, foraging, and interacting in their natural habitat.
The darkness of the night adds an element of mystery and excitement to the safari experience, as you will have the chance to listen to the sounds of the bush and use spotlights to catch glimpse of animals in the shadow. The park takes on a whole new temperature as the night comes alive with the sights and sounds of its inhabitants.
One of the highlights of a night game drive in Lake Manyara National Park is the opportunity to see predators in action. Many predators such as lions, and leopards are more active at night, making it easier to witness their hunting behavior and interactions with their prey.
Night game drives in Lake Manyara National Park offer a unique and exhilarating way to experience the park’s wildlife and connect with nature in a completely different setting. Whether you are an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a new and exciting adventure, a night game drives in Lake Manyara National Park is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of your safari experience.
Tips and Essential items to carry for a night game drive safaris in Lake Manyara National Park
To make your night game drive safari in Lake Manyara National Park an unforgeable experience, there are essential items you should move along with such as;
Dress warmly; bring layers of clothing and a warm jacket to keep you comfortable during the cooler evening hours
Bring binoculars; while spotlighting illuminates the path ahead, binoculars will help you get a closed look at distant animals
Respect the wildlife boundaries; remember to maintain a safe distance from animals at all times and follow your guide’s instructions.
Listen carefully; pay attention to the sounds of the night including the animal’s calls and rustling leaves.
Stay alert; keep an eye out for any sudden movement or changes in animals’ behavior.
The best time to do a night game drive safari in Lake Manyara National Park
The best time to go for a night game drive safari in Lake Manyara National Park is during the dry seasons from June to August and then December to February. During these months, the weather is more predictable, and the animals are often more active during the cooler night hours. It is also important to check with the park authorities or us at Focus East African Tours for any specific guidance or restrictions on night game drives before planning your safari.
Activity to do in Lake Manyara National Park besides night game drive
Canoeing: Canoe rides when the water levels are high will bring you close to the wildlife, especially those interested in bird watching, as you get more closer to the birds, have a chance to spot other hiding water birds in swamps and papyrus vegetation.
Birdwatching: Lake Manyara National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, featuring over 400 species. During your bird-watching tours, you can expect to spot bird species such as the silvery-checked hornbill, Shoebill, Hamerkop, Black-crowned Night Heron, Squacco Heron, African Spoonbill, Osprey, Egyptian Vulture, White-backed Vulture, Verreaux’s Eagle, Grasshopper Buzzard, African Scops-Owl, Green Woodhoopoe, Crowned Hornbill and Little Bee-eater Red-fronted Barbet among others.
Nature walks: Engage in guided nature walks for an intimate experience of the park’s flora and fauna. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the ecosystem, track animal footprints and discover medical plants while enjoying spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley.
Cultural tours: Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting nearby Maasai villages. These cultural tours offer insight into the traditional lifestyles, customs, and crafts of the Maasai people, enhancing your understanding of the region’s heritage and fostering community support through responsible tourism.
Game drives: While night game drives are popular, daytime game drives in Lake Manyara National Park are equally rewarding. the park is home to the famous tree-climbing lions that can be seen relaxing in tree branches, this national park also has diverse habitats for other wildlife species that include elephants, baboons, impalas, giraffes, klipspringers, zebras, hippos, warthogs, antelopes among others. During your day game drives, you will have the chance to see this incredible wildlife roaming their natural habitat.
Where to stay while on a night game drive safari in Lake Manyara National Park
There are a number of accommodation safari ranging from luxury, mid-range, and budget where you can stay while on a night game drive safari in Lake Manyara National Park such as Jungle Pearl Resort, Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge, And Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge, Manyara Best View Lodge, Lake Manyara Serene Safari Lodge, Manyara’s Secret, Maramboi Tented Lodge, Africa Safari Lake Manyara, Mawemawe Manyara Lodge, Kirurumu Manyara Lodge, Chem Maekawa Lodge, Mbali Maekawa Tarangire River Camp, Escarpmenet Luxury Lodge, Manyara Safari Lodge, Burunge Tented Lodge and Burudika Manyara Lodge among others.
Contact our trusted tour operators for more information night game drive safari in Lake Manyara National Park and then Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Focus East Africa Tours who offer the best tour packages while on your safari in Tanzania.
