Attractions

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Shadows of Africa's Top 10 Most Popular Safari Itineraries

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How to Plan The Ultimate Lion Safari

Planning the Ultimate Lion Safari

When people think of African wildlife, a variety of images probably come to their minds.

The colossal silhouette of an African elephant against the backdrop of thorny acacia trees.

Long-necked giraffe or stealthy leopards.

But for most, the regal lion is the most enduring symbol of Africa, and they come from all around the world to experience their own lion safari.

But if you're as obsessed with lions as we are, where is the best place to go for a lion safari?

Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania

One of two places in the world that can proudly boast being home to tree-climbing lions, Lake Manyara National Park is a popular choice for Tanzanian lion safaris.

During the annual wet season (April - May), the park comes alive with life as all manner of wildlife flock to the lake's shores.

Hippopotamus and water birds are popular sights in the park, but it is its resident tree-climbing lions that make it a good lion safari destination.

Believe me, you haven't seen a lion until you've seen it lazily lounging in the branches of an umbrella acacia!

When to Visit: April, May, or November.

Where to Stay: Check out our fantastic Lake Manyara accommodation guide!

What to See: Hippos, water birds, and tree-climbing lions.

Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

The other park that can boast tree-climbing lions, Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is a popular spot between Kibale's chimp trekking and Bwindi's gorilla trekking.

The park's Ishasha sector is especially popular, as it is here that you can find prides of lions relaxing in trees between meals.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is arguably Uganda's best safari park, but it's especially popular as a lion safari destination. It's the perfect stop on the road to Bwindi!

When to Visit: Year-round.

Where to Stay: There are some fantastic lodges in Queen Elizabeth, but Enjojo Lodge puts you closest to the action!

What to See: Lions, elephants, antelope, and chimpanzees.

Maasai Mara, Kenya

One of Africa's most famous safari destinations, Kenya's Maasai Mara is a fantastic place to spot lions in the wild.

While only home to the Wildebeest Migration for a few months of each year, the Maasai Mara is a top-class lion safari destination regardless of what time you visit.

The best part about the Maasai Mara is how affordable accommodation can be during the off-peak season, with luxury lodges for the price you'll pay for a regular tented camp across the border!

When to Visit: Year-round for lions or in August/September for the Migration.

Where to Stay: There are too many Maasai Mara lodges to count! Our favourites are Sopa Maasai Mara, Ashnil Mara, Mara Leisure, and Ol Moran.

What to See: The Big Five, African wild dogs, and the Wildebeest Migration.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

The piece de resistance when it comes to lion safari destinations, the Serengeti is Africa's most stunning wilderness and the home of the annual Wildebeest Migration.

With an abundance of Serengeti accommodation options and something to be seen throughout the year, it is the ultimate safari destination.

The Seronera region, in particular, is known as 'big cat country', and the famous Simba kopjes are said to have inspired Pride Rock from The Lion King!

When to Visit: Year-round. Check out our post on when to visit the Serengeti.

Where to Stay: Check out our Serengeti accommodation guide for some great ideas.

What to See: The Big Five and the Wildebeest Migration.

Akagera National Park, Rwanda

You don't need to take an international flight to see lions while in Rwanda.

Akagera National Park is now home to a pride of 14 lions, making it possible to embark on a lion safari as a day trip from Kigali!

While not of the same quality as a safari destination as the Serengeti or Maasai Mara, Akagera National Park is the perfect option if you're in Rwanda and need more to do than 'just' gorilla trekking.

When to Visit: Year-round.

Where to Stay: Consult your Shadows of Africa safari expert for Akagera accommodation recommendations!

What to See: The Big Five, Nile Crocodiles, and water birds.

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

If you want to see a kill, there are few places better than the World Heritage-listed Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Rare are the days where guests on safari in Ngorongoro Crater don't see a pride of lions guarding a fresh kill against hyenas looking for an easy meal.

When you add the spectacular backdrop of the soaring crater walls, you've got a recipe for an unforgettable lion safari.

When to Visit: Year-round.

Where to Stay: Check out our Ngorongoro accommodation guide.

What to See: The Big Five, especially rhinos.

Planning a lion safari? Reach out to your Shadows of Africa expert and let them help you design the perfect itinerary!

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Where to Stay in Lake Manyara: The Best Hotels in Lake Manyara National Park

Where to Stay in Lake Manyara

One of Tanzania's most beloved national parks, Lake Manyara is a popular stop-off on the way to (or from) the Serengeti and Ngorongoro regions.

Home to Tanzania's tree-climbing lions, a startling variety of bird life, and the many hippos who call its waters home.

A popular location for optional activities such as night game drives, Lake Manyara offers a variety of accommodation options while also being a short drive from the huge variety of accommodation in Karatu.

Budget

Most budget travelers will find there are better options in nearby Karatu, but Lake Manyara National Park is also home to both a campsite and budget lodge that cater to those on a tight budget.

Twiga Camp

If you're not looking for all of the bells and whistles, Twiga Camp is the best value for money you can find in the area.

With both regular rooms and campsites, there are a variety of options to suit all budgets. The presence of a swimming pool and on-site restaurant make it a cut above other campsites in Tanzania's National Parks too!

Recommended For: Budget travelers and adventurous travelers.

Medium

There are a number of Lake Manyara lodges for those on a conservative budget, with both tented camps and brick and mortar options available.

Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge

Boasting one of the most breathtaking views of Lake Manyara you're likely to find, Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge is a brick and mortar lodge catering to families, large groups, and those who want affordable accommodation close to the park.

While the rooms are a little small and it lacks some amenities, you can't beat the stunning view.

Recommended For: Families.

Escarpment Lodge

Perched on the Great Rift Valley escarpment, the aptly named Escarpment Lodge is another property that can boast a gorgeous view of the park.

Its infinity pool, huge viewing deck, and gorgeous decoration make it a better option than Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge for those who want a little something special.

Recommended For: Those with a little extra money.

Kirurumu Manyara

For those wanting the tented camp experience, Kirurumu Under Canvas offers stunning views of the Great Rift Valley and the thrill of camping in the wilderness.

You're not roughing it in your tented accommodation, either! There's hot and cold water, 24-hour electricity, and all of the comforts you'd expect to find in a hotel room.

Ideally located between Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire - Kirurumu Manyara is a great place to base yourself for a few days.

Recommended For: Adventurous travelers.

Luxury

Lake Manyara's immense natural beauty and its position on the Great Rift Valley escarpment lend it to some truly spectacular luxury lodges.

Lake Manyara Kilimamoja

The best value when it comes to luxury properties in Lake Manyara, Kilimamoja offers luxury services at a price that even medium travelers can afford.

From the same family behind the popular Ole Serai and Oldeani properties, Kilimamoja is one of our favourite lodges.

Recommended For: Luxury on a budget.

Serena Lake Manyara

The popular Serena chain of hotels has a strong presence in Lake Manyara. For those traveling with their family or a large group, the trusted Serena brand is always a good option.

Like other Serena properties, Lake Manyara Serena can boast a large pool, spacious dining facilities, and comfortable lodge accommodation.

Recommended For: Families.

Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp

For a luxury tented camp experience, Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp is the place to be.

Combining world-class luxury with a closeness to nature you won't find at other Lake Manyara lodges, Wildlife Safari Camp is perfect for those wanting the comforts from home while also enjoying an authentic African bush experience.

Recommended For: Barefoot luxury and adventurous luxury.

Ultra Luxury

There may not be many top luxury options in Lake Manyara, but the one the park can boast is one of the best.

&Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

From the first name in African luxury experiences comes Lake Manyara Tree Lodge. Not only is this one of Tanzania's most photogenic properties, it's also one of its most decadent.

Each of the property's nine tree house suites can boast 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. Designed to leave a minimal footprint on the surrouding ecosystem, Tree Lodge combines &Beyond's signature flair for luxury with an experience that is akin to sleeping in the trees like on of the park's famous tree-climbing lions!

Recommended For: Honeymooners.

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While Lake Manyara National Park may not boast the same variety of accommodation as Ngorongoro or the Serengeti, there is nonetheless something for all tastes and budgets.

Got a favourite that you don't see here? Let us know!

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