Lake Manyara is a shallow, alkaline lake that covers an area of 230 square km in the Arusha region of Tanzania. This is the seventh largest lake in the country, and is one of the best tourist spots that travellers can visit. Tourists can enjoy the breathtaking view of the vivid greenery, exotic flora and fauna, and the blue lake. For visitors who are travelling on a budget, there are many pocket-friendly activities they can enjoy during their enriching and fun-filled trip to Lake Manyara.
- Spot the Glorious Birdlife
Bird-watching is one of the most amazing and relaxing activities that tourists can enjoy at Lake Manyara. The region is home to colorful exotic and migratory birds such as black herons, hornbills, little bee-eaters, weavers, striped kingfishers, pelicans, yellow-billed storks, blue-naped mousebirds, doves, woodpeckers, and coucals!
- Visit the National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is one of the top parks in Tanzania. Visitors have to pay a fee of USD 53 if they are adults, while the fee is around USD 17 for children. This is valid for 24 hours during which visitors can enjoy safaris and walking tours. Tourists can spot amazing wildlife, including animals such as elephants, lions, flamingos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, hippos, blue monkeys, and baboons!
- Go on a Boat Tour
Boat tours are an excellent way of exploring the serene lake. Tourists can hire canoes or boats, or join local fishermen as they explore the tranquil region. The experience is relaxing and can help visitors forget the worries of their lives. A boat tour can help visitors unwind and de-stress, and they can also go fishing for catfish and tilapia!
- Enjoy a Picnic on the Grass
Tourists can enjoy a picnic on the grass, eating fresh seafood, home made goods, or locally produced products. For couples, this can be a romantic and special experience. On family tours, this is a great idea as the kids can play around and enjoy the serene location. Visitors can also enjoy looking at the beautiful birdlife and wildlife. The flora and fauna of the region is breathtaking, and travellers can find over 670 flower and fern species. These include plants such as yellow fever trees, sycamore figs, quinine trees, water lillies, acacia trees, doom palms, and African baobab trees.
- Go on a Cultural Tour
Another top pocket-friendly activity for travellers to enjoy around Lake Manyara is to take a cultural tour to the nearby Mto wa Mbu, an ethnically diverse market town. A cultural tour is a great idea, as it allows visitors to help the local economy, interact with indigenous communities, and learn about local customs, histories, and lifestyles. The enriching experience can make any trip unforgettable. The bustling community of Mto wa Mbu is welcoming, and provides an insight into a blend of beautiful cultures, as it is home to representatives of 120 tribes. Tourists can explore the markets where they can observe the talent of the Makonde tribe at woodwork shops, where they can buy skillfully carved figurines, masks, and objects. They can look at local art, crafts, and paintings, and buy souvenirs and keepsakes to take back home with them. Eating at the market is also a unique experience, as visitors can try the traditional banana and millet beer made by the Chagga tribe, as well as local fruits, teas, and traditional foods such as Ugali, Nyama Choma (grilled meat), Uji (porridge), and spiced potatoes.
This unique and exciting place should be on every travel lover’s wish list! We hope you can enjoy a memorable and budget friendly trip to the wonderful Lake Manyara!