Lake Manyara National Park Photos

A telephoto zoom reaching around 300 to 400 millimeters is the most useful lens for Lake Manyara wildlife and birds. Add a wider lens for escarpment views and forest scenes, plus spare batteries, extra memory cards and a dust blower. The groundwater forest can be dark, so a camera that handles higher ISO settings helps with monkeys and forest birds. A bean bag steadies long lenses on the vehicle frame, and modern smartphones work well for wide landscapes, escarpment views and colorful village scenes in Mto wa Mbu.

Flying drones in Tanzania's national parks, including Lake Manyara, is restricted and requires official permits that are rarely granted for recreational use. Drones can disturb wildlife, especially birds and baboons, and other visitors, so you should not plan on flying one in the park. Bringing a drone into Tanzania may also require prior authorization. For elevated views, enjoy the escarpment viewpoints and lodges on the Rift Valley rim, which offer sweeping panoramas over the lake, the woodlands and the distant plains.

Yes, a private safari is ideal for photography at Lake Manyara because the vehicle, guide and timing are yours alone. You can stay at a sighting as long as you like, wait for an elephant to step into clear light, or search the woodlands patiently for tree-climbing lions. Our Land Cruisers have a pop-up roof and large windows, giving every passenger a clear shooting position. Your guide can also plan drives around the best light, the quietest areas and your favorite subjects.

The photos on this page are part of the Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris website and appear here to help you picture your Lake Manyara safari. Please do not copy or reuse them without our permission. If you travel with us, we warmly welcome you to share your own Lake Manyara photographs with us after your trip, and with your consent we may feature favorite images, credited to you, so future travelers can see this beautiful Rift Valley park through your own eyes.