tree climbing lions lake manyara

Tree-Climbing Lions of Lake Manyara

A Tree-Climbing Treat

Lake Manyara, once the filming location for the classic Hollywood Tarzan movies, is a popular safari stop between Arusha and the Serengeti for a variety of reasons including its huge variety of bird-life and its wallowing hippos.

However, it is the park's tree-climbing lions that are an especially popular sight with visitors. Up until recently, only Lake Manyara and Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park could boast this rare sight - although recent reports say that the phenomenon has now spread to the Serengeti as well.

Our recent clients, Shwana & Jennifer, were lucky enough to spot them in both Lake Manyara and the Serengeti!

A lazy lion enjoying some R&R in a Serengeti tree.

And one enjoying the view from atop a tree in Lake Manyara.

Of course, this wasn't all they saw! In addition to catching a glimpse of the Wildebeest Migration in motion, they also spotted cheetahs, a variety of fascinating birds, and even a few topi!

Guided by our experienced guide, Bashiru (the photographer on these shots), they crossed the Serengeti, ducked through Lake Manyara, and even paid a visit to the local Masai.

A cheetah watches the plains carefully for signs of prey or danger.

They don't get photographed as much as impala or other antelopes, but we think the topi are cute!

A lone giraffe cuts a striking figure.

An elephant forages.

A young giraffe stills a hug.

The distinct colouration of the Southern Ground Hornbill makes it popular with photographers.