Lake Manyara National Park is a breathtakingly diverse gem, especially impressive for its compact size of 325 square kilometers (125 square miles). Known for its dynamic landscapes, the park shifts from a shallow soda lake—often blanketed in vibrant pink flamingos—to acacia woodlands teeming with large troops of baboons, elephants, and giraffes.

Over 400 species of birds make it a paradise for birdwatchers, while the park’s tree-climbing lions add an extraordinary allure as they lounge in acacia branches—a rare behavior seen in few places around the world.Adding to its uniqueness, Lake Manyara boasts an underground water forest, a cool, shaded sanctuary sustained by natural springs.