Access Gates to Lake Manyara National Park: Lake Manyara National Park is one of the oldest and at the same time smallest of Tanzania’s parks located in the Arusha and Manyara region Between Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley. It is administered by the Tanzania National Parks Authority and covers an area of 325 square kilometers including about 230 square kilometers of lake surface. It is an alkaline lake surrounded by vegetation that transitions from groundwater forests to flood plains and finally to grasslands dotted with acacia trees. The lake is fed from the northern Simba River and the eastern Makuyuni River. Plus, it forms part of the Rift Valley catchment during the rainy seasons. In recent years the lake’s water level has risen significantly and skeletons of waterlogged trees mark the old shoreline.
The park is home to numerous wildlife including buffalos, hippos, baboons, waterbucks, impalas, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. There is a healthy population of leopards, but sightings are rare due to the thick vegetation. In the past, the park was renowned for large populations of elephants and tree-climbing lions, however, since the lake’s water levels have risen sightings are rarer. with over 350 bird species have been observed on the lake. This article presents to you some of the access Gates to Lake Manyara National Park and its diverse attractions, and they include
Mto wa Mbu Gate
The Mto wa Mbu Gate is located at the northern end of the Lake Manyara National Park. The gate is the main entry point for visitors coming from nearby Arusha or other northern Tanzania and allows connecting visitors to Mto wa Mbu village. This bustling hub is known for its cultural diversity, agricultural activities, and local markets, offering a rich introduction to the surrounding before embarking on safari adventures. The gate is also known for its picturesque surroundings, with lush greenery and the meandering Mto wa Mbu River providing a tranquil setting as they enter the park
Lake Manyara Gate
Lake Manyara Gate is located in the eastern shores of Lake Manyara, this gate is the main entrance to Lake Manyara National Park. Lake Manyara Gate offers visitors direct access to the lakeside region, where visitors can marvel at the saline waters and rich bird species. The gate is popular for birdwatching enthusiasts as the wetlands attract numerous migratory species including hundreds of pinks-hued flamingos that grace the shimmering shores with vivid colors. Visitors can also spot elephants, hippos, and other wildlife as they make their way through this scenic part of the park. This gate is also a starting point for most of the safari excursions, offering access to the park’s lush forest, grassy plains, and sparkling lake.
Endala Gate
Endala Gate is located on the western boundary of the park, the gate provides access to the remote and less-visited areas of Lake Manyara. Visitors entering through this gate have the opportunity to spot elusive leopards, sky leopards, and other rare wildlife species Visitors that are often hidden from the more popular tourist routes.
Kirurumu Gate
Kirurumu Gate provides access to the park’s northern regions, leading visitors into less-traveled areas rich in wildlife. This entry is ideal for those seeking tranquillity and solitude, with opportunities to views elephants, giraffes, and various bird species against the backdrop of stunning ancient and lush landscape. Visitors can enjoy the scenic drives that take them through regions of thick vegetation and open grasslands, perfect for spotting amazing wildlife including the park’s famous tree-climbing lions.
Misigyo Gate
Misigyo Gate is located in the northeastern corner of Lake Manyara National Park, Misigyo Gate provides access to the dense forest and rolling hills of the area. This gate is a prime spot for birdwatching enthusiasts, as it is home to a wide variety of bird species, including hornbills, kingfishers and raptors.
Ngurdoto Gate
Ngurdoto Gate is located on the southeastern side of the park, the Ngurdoto Gate is a popular entry point for visitors coming from the nearby town of Karatu. The gate offers easy access to the park’s dense forested areas, where visitors can see a wide variety of birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. Ngurdoto Gate, a stunning volcanic crater that lies just south of the gate, is also a popular attraction for visitors.
Marang Forest Gate
Marang Forest Gate situated on the western side of the park, the gate is a lesser-known entry point that offers visitors a more secluded and intimate experience of Lake Manyara National Park. The gate is surrounded by lush forests and hillsides, providing a peaceful and scenic setting for visitors to enjoy the park’s wildlife and natural beauty.
Maji ya Nde Gate
Maji ya Nde Gate located in the southern part of the park, the gate offers a gateway to the tranquil Maji ya Nde lake, where visitors can witness a stunning array of water birds, including flamingos, pelicans and herons. This gate is also a popular starting point for guided walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the park on foot and discover its hidden treasures.
Endabash Gate
Endabash Gate is situated on the northwestern side of the park; the Endabash Gate is a popular entry point for visitors coming from the nearby town of Babati. The gate offers access to the park’s rolling grasslands and acacia woodlands, where visitors can see a wide variety of wildlife, including the elephants, giraffes, and zebras. The area is known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the distant peaks of the Rift Valley escarpments.
Ngorongoro Gate
Though primarily associated with Ngorongoro Crater, the Ngorongoro Gate also offers access to lake Manyara National Park. visitors who enter through this gate area are greeted by stunning panoramas that stretches across the African landscape. The dramatic scenery serves as a backdrop for many species, including large herds of wildebeest and gazelle. This gate is a popular route for those on safari itineraries, offering a seamless transition between two incredible locations.
Ol Tukai Gate
The Ol Tukai Gate is strategically positioned along the route leading to both Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park. The gate is often favored by visitors traveling between the two parks, thanks to its convenient location. As you pass through the Ol Tukai Gate, the enchanting sounds of wildlife fill the air. This area is known for its rich biodiversity, including iconic species such as elephants and flamingos. The park rangers stationed at the gate are knowledgeable and ready to provide insights about the different habitats and wildlife you may encounter.
