Canoeing at Lake Manyara

Canoeing on Lake Manyara in Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park offers an intimate and unique way to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of this enchanting area. This activity is not just a recreational paddle; it’s an adventure that blends wildlife viewing with serene water exploration. Lake Manyara National Park, while being one of the smaller parks in Tanzania, is packed with biodiversity, especially along its lake shores where the canoe safaris take place.

The lake itself is an alkaline body of water, fed by underground hot springs, with no outlet, which results in fluctuating water levels that are ideal for canoeing at certain times of the year. The landscape around the lake is a mosaic of acacia woodlands, savannah plains, and evergreen forests, creating a backdrop that’s both diverse and visually stunning.

As you glide through the waters, you’re in the company of a knowledgeable guide who will point out the fauna and flora, including giraffes bending down for a drink, elephants wading through the shallows, and a kaleidoscope of birds. The park is particularly renowned for its avian population, with species like flamingos creating a pink fringe along the lake’s edges, and other birds such as the dark-crowned crane, yellow-billed stork, and various weavers and warblers making their presence known with their calls and colors.

The canoeing experience is not just about the animals; it’s about immersion into the ecosystem. You’ll paddle through areas dense with marshes, saline flats, and grassy floodplains, possibly passing by the famous hippo pool at the southern shore, where these large mammals can often be seen lounging. The hot springs on the western side add an element of geological curiosity to your journey.

This activity provides a low to medium level of physical exertion, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. It’s a serene way to connect with nature, offering panoramic views and close encounters with wildlife from the comfort and safety of a stable, two-person fiberglass canoe.

Location

Lake Manyara National Park is located in the southwestern part of Arusha, making it a convenient addition to any Northern Safari Circuit itinerary. The canoeing activity typically starts from the Endala picnic site within the park, which is easily accessible once you’ve entered through the park’s gates.

Day Tour and Itinerary

A typical day of canoeing on Lake Manyara could be structured like this:

• Morning or Afternoon: Depending on your preference, you’ll be scheduled for either a morning or an afternoon session. Both times offer different but equally enchanting experiences, with morning sessions often quieter and afternoon ones showcasing more active wildlife.
• Meet-Up: Arrive at the Endala picnic site inside Manyara National Park where you’ll meet your guide and receive a safety briefing.
• Canoe Safari:
  • Launch: Begin your paddle, moving gently through the lake’s waters.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for animals coming to drink or birds in flight. Your guide will help you spot and learn about the species you encounter.
  • Nature Experience: Enjoy the scenery, the silence of the water, and the occasional sounds of the park’s inhabitants.
• Duration: The canoe trip typically lasts about 2.5 hours, offering ample time for exploration and observation.
• Post-Safari: After your canoe adventure, you might choose to relax at the picnic site, have a picnic lunch, or continue with another park activity like a game drive.
• Evening: Return to your accommodation, perhaps MoonBow Lodge, to unwind, share your experiences, or plan further adventures.

What Makes This Tour Unique

• Intimate Wildlife Encounters: Canoeing allows for silent, unobtrusive observation of wildlife, offering experiences not possible from a vehicle or on foot.
• Scenic Beauty: The views from the water, combined with the park’s diverse landscapes, are breathtaking and provide a different perspective on the park’s beauty.
• Bird Watching Haven: The lake is a magnet for bird species, making it an exceptional location for ornithologists or anyone fascinated by avian life.
• Educational Experience: With a guide, you learn about the ecosystem, animal behaviors, and conservation efforts, enriching your understanding of this unique environment.
• Peaceful and Relaxing: There’s something inherently soothing about being on water, surrounded by nature, which adds a therapeutic dimension to your safari.

Accommodation at MoonBow Lodge

After your serene paddle on Lake Manyara, MoonBow Lodge offers:

• Comfort: Nestled in the natural surroundings, the lodge provides a peaceful retreat with rooms that reflect the local culture.
• Culinary Experience: Enjoy meals that might echo the flavors of the region you’ve just explored by canoe, with fresh, local ingredients.
• Further Exploration: The lodge can organize additional activities or simply offer a place to relax and reflect on your day’s adventures.
• Nature’s Proximity: Being near Lake Manyara, you’re ideally positioned for more wildlife experiences or to enjoy the natural setting from your accommodation.
• Cultural Engagement: Evening cultural shows or discussions can extend your day with more insights into Tanzanian life and environment.