The Lake Manyara airstrip is a small domestic airport located in northern Tanzania near Mto wa Mbu town in the Arusha region. It is part of the Northern Safari Circuit and lies about 7 kilometers from Lake Manyara National Park and about 126 kilometers west of Arusha.
The airstrip has one runway that is about 1200 meters long and 23 meters wide. It is located just south of Lake Manyara National Park, which is home to animals such as elephants, giraffes, hippos, tree climbing lions, and many bird species.
Flights to Lake Manyara Airstrip
Lake Manyara airstrip operates domestic flights that connect to several destinations across Tanzania. These include Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Mwanza, Ruaha National Park, Selous National Park, the Seronera area in Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Zanzibar.
These flight connections make it easy for travelers to move between parks and cities without long road journeys.
Airlines Operating at Lake Manyara Airstrip
Two main airlines operate flights at Lake Manyara airstrip. These are Coastal Aviation and Flightlink.
These airlines offer short flights mainly for safari travelers and tour companies. Services include daily scheduled flights, private charter flights, and meet and greet services.
Flying helps reduce travel time compared to road transport and allows visitors to reach their destinations quickly.
Type of Aircraft and Operations
Lake Manyara airstrip mainly handles small aircraft. It supports domestic flights, charter flights, and safari transfers between different parks.
Flights usually operate during daylight hours. This is because park gates open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, and most safari movements are planned within this time.
The airstrip acts as a main entry point for visitors going to Lake Manyara National Park and nearby safari areas.
Location and Views
Lake Manyara airstrip is located along the Great Rift Valley. From the air, visitors can see views of the escarpment, open plains, and the lake.
Nearby viewpoints include Lake Manyara Viewpoint, which gives a clear view of the park and lake. Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is also located nearby and offers views from its terrace. Endala viewpoint is another place where visitors can stop for a view of the lake and escarpment.
Best Time to Use Lake Manyara Airstrip
The best time to use Lake Manyara airstrip depends on your travel plans.
- The dry season from June to October is the busiest time. It is good for wildlife viewing because animals are easier to find. During this time, prices are usually higher due to many visitors.
- From January to February, visitors can see young animals and enjoy good game viewing.
- From November to May, it is a good time for bird watching and green scenery. This period includes short rains from November to December and long rains from March to May.
Importance of Lake Manyara Airstrip
Lake Manyara airstrip is an important travel point in northern Tanzania. It helps connect Arusha, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara National Park.
Using this airstrip saves time and makes safari travel easier, especially for visitors with limited time.
Lake Manyara airstrip is a simple and fast way to access Lake Manyara National Park and nearby safari destinations. It supports domestic flights and connects key locations in Tanzania.
It is a good option for travelers who want to move quickly and start their safari without long delays.
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