lake manyara serena safari

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Mto wa Mbu, Northern Tanzania, Karatu, Tanzania – Excellent location – show map

Cleanliness

Value for money

Excellent location!

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Located in Karatu, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge has accommodations with an outdoor pool, free WiFi, a garden and a shared lounge. There's a private bathroom with shower and free toiletries in each unit, along with bathrobes. The daily breakfast offers buffet, à la carte or continental options. At the lodge you'll find a restaurant serving African and American cuisine. If you would like to discover the area, cycling is possible nearby. The nearest airport is Lake Manyara, a few steps from Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Airport shuttle
• Non-smoking rooms
• Room service
• Family rooms
• Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms

Property highlights

Top Location: Highly rated by recent guests (9.7)

Breakfast Info

Continental, Full English/Irish, Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal, Gluten-free, Kosher, American, Buffet

Free Private Parking Available On Site

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Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

Categories:

See what guests loved the most:.

Restaurants 1 Restaurant On Site

• Cuisine African • American

Amenities of Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Great facilities! Review score, 8.8

• Toilet paper
• Private Bathroom
• Free toiletries
• Wardrobe or closet
• Private pool
• BBQ facilities Additional charge
• Cleaning products
• Clothes rack
• Bike tours Additional charge
• Game drives Additional charge
• Cycling Off-site
• Canoeing Additional charge Off-site
• Sitting area
• Tea/Coffee maker
• Baggage storage
• Currency exchange
• Board games/Puzzles
• Babysitting/Child services Additional charge
• Daily housekeeping
• Laundry Additional charge
• Fax/Photocopying
• Meeting/Banquet facilities Additional charge
• Shared lounge/TV area
• Designated smoking area
• Mosquito net
• Packed lunches
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Airport shuttle Additional charge
• Wake-up service/Alarm clock
• Pool with view
• Pool/Beach towels
• Beauty services
• Massage Additional charge

See availability House rules

From 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card at check-in

From 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Cancellation/ prepayment

Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodations type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check what conditions apply to your preferred room.

Children & Beds

Child policies

Children of all ages are welcome.

To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.

Crib and extra bed policies

Prices for cribs and extra beds aren't included in the total price. They'll have to be paid for separately during your stay.

The number of extra beds and cribs allowed depends on the option you choose. Check your selected option for more info.

All cribs and extra beds are subject to availability.

No age restriction

There's no age requirement for check-in

Pets are not allowed.

Accepted payment methods

Cash Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge accepts these cards and reserves the right to temporarily hold an amount prior to arrival.

The fine print Must-know information for guests at this property

Kindly contact the lodge's central reservations at least 48 hrs prior to your travel date to make arrangements for transportation to the lodge, including airstrip transfer at charge.

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.

Please inform Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.

Payment before arrival by bank transfer is required. The property will contact you after you book to provide instructions.

In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.

Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19), this property is taking steps to protect the safety of guests and staff. Certain services and amenities may be reduced or unavailable as a result.

In accordance with government guidelines to minimize transmission of the coronavirus (COVID-19), this property may request additional documentation from guests to validate identity, travel itinerary, and other relevant info on dates where such guidelines exist.

FAQs about Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

What type of room can i book at lake manyara serena safari lodge, what are the check-in and check-out times at lake manyara serena safari lodge.

Check-in at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is from 12:00 PM, and check-out is until 11:00 AM.

What is there to do at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge?

• Game drives
• Swimming pool

Does Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge have a restaurant on site?

• Restaurant #1

Does Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge have a pool?

Yes, this hotel has a pool. See details about the pool and other facilities on this page.

How much does it cost to stay at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge?

The prices at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates, hotel's policy etc.). To see prices, enter your dates.

Is Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge popular with families?

Yes, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is popular with guests booking family stays.

How far is Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge from the center of Karatu?

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is 10.6 miles from the center of Karatu. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

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Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Review – A Luxury Experience

Perched on the cliffs of the Mto Wa Mbu escarpment, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is set amidst the scenic views of the Lake Manyara National Park . Just 130 kilometres from the town of Arusha, this wildlife wonderland is home to everything from famous tree-climbing lions to over 300 migratory bird species. 

My wife and I stayed in the luxurious Losimingori Suite during our visit, which gave our surroundings an extra touch of class. We dined three times a day in the elegant yet traditional Flamingo restaurant located in the lodge and spent alternate days enjoying exciting bush dinners, which were hosted by the lodge.

In this article, I'll share my best insights on the type of accommodation and amenities you can expect at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, activities you can enjoy as well as exploring the rich culture of the area. 

Let's dive in. 

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Check out these helpful customer reviews

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Review

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is set around an infinity pool with its edges disappearing into the horizon. The traditional rondavel style  accommodation and authentic Masaai culture-inspired décor provide a unique  luxury safari experience .

Witness the magnificent wildlife or spend time with the family partaking in the educational games and drives in Lake Manyara. Whatever you end up doing, you'll definitely appreciate why Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is so highly ranked among Tanzania's best hotels and exclusive safari accommodation .

Which tour?  Here are 5 safari tours including Lake Manyara I highly recommend: 

• Northern Circuits Park Tour  (3 days)
• Coffee Waterfall Safari  (6 days)
• Camping Safari  (7 days)
• Best of Tanzania Safari  (8 days)
• Luxury Kenya and Tanzania Tour  (14 days)

See more  Lake Manyara Safari deals .

Location And Views At Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Set in the heart of Lake Manyara National Park , the lodge provides a truly immersive wilderness experience. Guests wake up to spectacular views from their bedroom’s veranda where they can marvel at the pinkish hues of the flamingoes and the blues of the lake set against the endless savannah.

The lodge is just a short two-kilometre drive down a private dirt track from the main road, which leads you straight into the reception area – a village-like set-up of thatched rooms. Whether you peer down into the national park over the pool edge or take time to look at the cultural architecture and ornaments that decorate the dining areas – Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is truly captivating. 

Amenities At  Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge offers world-class amenities and services to make your stay comfortable and convenient.

• Outside dining terrace overlooking the scenic pool-side bar and sun deck. 
• Reception area including a gift shop, central dining room and hotel bar. 
• Tented conference room.
• Business center. 
• Babysitting service.
• Free onsite parking as well as wheelchair access to all public areas. 
• Guest services such as a barber and hair stylist, currency exchange, laundry, dry-cleaning services and complimentary coffee.

Rooms  A t Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Inspired by local architectural traditions, the rooms are built in a circular shape with stone walls and thatched roofs. The lodge offers 67 bedrooms including one executive suite, 41 twin rooms, 12 triple rooms, and 13 single rooms.

The standard chalets are double story, white-washed “ rondavels ” situated on the edge of a cliff and boast incredible views. Each room has a veranda or balcony with an en-suite bathroom. The traditional décor is mesmerizing and includes hand-woven rugs, beadwork and brightly coloured wall art to mimic the diverse birdlife . 

The Losimingori Suite , aptly named because of its magnificent views of the Losimingori Mountain, is hidden by a private entrance. The room is made up of a king-sized bed, an en-suite bathroom and a fully stocked minibar. There is a luxurious sitting room as well as a balcony that allows you to soak in the breathtaking views. 

As an added bonus, guest can enjoy a complimentary spread of fruit and wine upon entering the suite. Room prices start from US$250 per night for a standard double chalet or US$675 per night for the executive suite .

Fine Dining A t Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

The Flamingo restaurant replicates a traditional Maasai boma , serving buffet-style meals in the dining area or on the garden terrace. Guests are entertained by a live cooking setting where they can not only watch their food being prepared but join in on a cooking class to learn how to prepare these dishes themselves. 

A short stroll from the lodge will take you to the location of the bush dining area where you are treated to a full English breakfast in the shade of the indigenous acacia trees . The local chefs add to the experience by preparing the meal on charcoal stoves in front of you. 

The bush dining area also offers a dinner under the stars, kicked off with cocktails around the campfire while watching traditional dances. 

To immerse yourself in the local culture, you have the option of enjoying a village lunch that’s run by the local community. Guests will be guided around the village and lunch will be served in a clearing among the banana plantations. The bush dining experience as well as the village lunch needs to be organized with the lodge and will be charged at an additional cost. 

Activities  A t Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

If it’s relaxation you’re after, you can choose all kinds of activities from lounging around the scenic pool to getting treated at the lodge’s spa. 

To add adventure to your stay at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, there’s the option of a mountain-bike down the Rift Valley Escarpment into Mto Wa Mbu village . Hotel guests can also enjoy a forest and bush walk led by a qualified naturalist, day and night safari drives, and a canoe ride on Lake Manyara.

To experience a taste of the local culture, you can sign up for Swahili language lessons, visit local markets, or take a Tuk tuk ride through the villages. 

As a family-friendly lodge, there are also activities for children like educational games, safari drives , and walks that teach children to care for the wilderness by planting trees. Parents can also request a babysitter at any time of the day. 

I hope my Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Review helps you visit this luxury safari destination in the near future. You're guaranteed a lifetime of important conservation lessons and unforgettable experiences during your trip. 

Mark Whitman

Hi, I'm Mark! Welcome to Climb Kilimanjaro Guide - the Web's No.1 Trekking Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro. This site is your one stop shop for everything Kilimanjaro. To date over 5 million people have visited Climb Kilimanjaro Guide, many of which have gone on to summit Kili! I hope you find all the answers you are looking for, but if you have any questions don't hesitate to drop a comment below!

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Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

About Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

In a stunning location, perched high on the edge of the escarpment, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge has ...

... commanding views over Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley, and the northern end of Lake Manyara National Park, 300m below. During the dry season, bushbuck and dikdik climb the steep scarp to browse and graze in the lodge's cool, shady gardens. Like most of the Serena properties in East Africa, this is a big lodge, accommodating up to 145 guests. Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is typical of the Serena Hotels brand: it lacks luxury or intimacy, but does provide a practical, comfortable base at a reasonable price. We had good service here on our most recent visit (in Feb 2018) and it was friendly and efficient. We loved the stunning views from the cliff-top location. If staying inside Lake Manyara National Park isn’t an option, then visiting from here is a good alternative.

Birdwatching

Cultural excursion

Mountain biking

Night drive

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge: Full Report

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Traveller reviews of Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

11 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.

Arrived 20 Jul 2021, 1 nights

"Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge review"

Overall rating: Good

Arrived 31 Jul 2019, 2 nights

"Lake Manyara Lodge"

Overall rating: Excellent

Arrived 8 Feb 2019, 1 nights

"fab view at L Manyara Serena Safari Lodge"

Arrived 5 Jul 2018, 1 nights

Arrived 14 Feb 2018, 2 nights

Overall rating: Average

Arrived 23 Jan 2015, 1 nights

"A good lodge with nice rooms and great views"

Arrived 21 Jan 2014, 1 nights

Arrived 2 Oct 2013, 2 nights

Arrived 7 Aug 2011, 1 nights

"Hotel in a stunning location on edge of rift"

Arrived 3 Feb 2011, 3 nights

"Fantastic location overlooking Rift Valley"

See all Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge reviews

Expert Africa's gallery

When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 20 pictures of Lake Manyara Serena to get the candid view.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Lake Manyara Serena

Click an animal to see our traveller's success in sighting them. How we work this out.

100% success

67% success

33% success

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Lake Manyara Serena.

When to go to Lake Manyara National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Lake Manyara Serena in Lake Manyara National Park

Tanzania in January

January usually marks the start of the short dry season, although the exact timings of this are a little unpredictable. You can expect clear blue skies and sunshine, if the short rains have stopped, and the temperatures will be building. The short dry season is a little less pronounced in Southern Tanzania, and so it can still be wet in these areas. It is an interesting time for avians as resident birds go into breeding plumage and migrant species can be present. Once the New Year busy period has quietened down, January can offer great value and quieter parks, although the weather can be variable, and in the Selous and Ruaha the wildlife is more dispersed.

• Variable weather: clear & dry or cloudy with some rain.
• Occasional thunderstorms may occur.
• A good time of year for birding as and many migrant species are around
• The wildebeest migration is gathering in the southern Serengeti.
• Busy in early January, quietening down through the month.

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Tanzania in February

February is during the short dry season and is one of the hottest months in Tanzania, with temperatures reaching around 33°Celsius. This can be a good time to visit, as some areas of the Northern Circuit are comparatively quieter than during the European summer months, and lodge rates are also a little lower. The wildebeest will typically be on the southern plains of the Serengeti for their calving season, which tends to occur in a 2-3 week window in early-mid February – although this does vary year on year. This is also a particularly rewarding time for birdlife, as northern hemisphere migrants join the resident species.

• Hot and dry weather.
• Wildebeest migration calving on Serengeti’s southern plains.
• Ngorongoro Crater and southern Serengeti busy for the migration.
• Selous and Ruaha are typically quiet at this time.
• The parks are likely to be lush and green, leading to pretty landscape

A very good time to visit

Weather in February

Tanzania in March

The heavier ‘long rains’ start in earnest in March although exactly when varies year on year. With no need to stay close to permanent water sources, migratory wildlife disperses, and so game viewing starts to become more challenging. This is most prominently seen in Tarangire National Park. The wildebeest migration may still be calving, or have moved on into the central regions of the Serengeti. Many of the camps in the southern parks close mid March and mobile tented camps in the Serengeti will wind down towards the end of the month in order to move location or carry out refurbishments, ready for the new tourist season.

• Hot with building humidity, before the rains begin at some point.
• Wildlife viewing is variable depending on the start of the rains.
• Parks are quiet and rates are low.
• Not great for southern or western Tanzania.
• March can be a good time for birding, with many migrant species.

Weather in March

Tanzania in April

April is in the middle of the long rainy season and is the wettest month, with on average 250mm of rain. Temperatures are fairly high and humid in comparison to the rest of the year. Expect the bush to be lush and flowering, and alive with insects, birds and smaller animals. It is however also dense, allowing wildlife to hide, which in turn makes game viewing harder. This is a very quiet time in terms of visitor numbers. Many of the tented camps are closed in April, however the larger lodges remain open. The rates are significantly cheaper, and so if you are willing to work harder to spot the bigger game, some accommodation bargains can be had.

• Heavy rain expected, with impressive thunderstorms and lightning.
• Many camps closed and roads impassable due to ground conditions.
• Rates are at their lowest all year round, with very few other tourists
• Places that are open are green and vibrant, wildlife more dispersed.

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Tanzania in May

As Tanzania is close to the equator there is no dramatic difference in climate throughout the year, but temperatures do start to drop a little in May. The rains are likely to still be present, although potentially clearing towards the end of the month. Visitor numbers and lodge rates are still low. The wildebeest migration is making its way through the western regions of the Serengeti, crossing the Grumeti River. Virtually all camps in southern Tanzania remain closed, and many of the roads and tracks in the Selous become impassable.

• Heavy rains and storms are likely, this can create some dramatic skies
• Blissfully quiet in northern Tanzania, and a good time to avoid crowds
• The parks are likely to look lush and green, with long grass.
• Wildlife is likely to be more dispersed, with fewer sightings.
• The low prices make safaris much more affordable at this time.

Weather in May

Tanzania in June

The rains come to an end at some point during the month and migratory wildlife begins to be drawn back to perennial water sources as the land starts to dry up. It’s likely that the parks will still be quite green and the grass high though, so walking and fly-camping may be unlikely. This marks the start of the season with camps reopening, but prices are still more affordable than the subsequent months. The migration may still be in the Western Corridor, or on the move northwards towards the Mara River. Western Tanzania presents more challenging conditions for chimpanzee trekking in Mahale National Park, as the chimps are higher in the mountains.

• A transitory time for the migration – moving from west to north.
• The parks may still be quite green, and grasses high.
• Wildlife may be dispersed still.
• Relatively low visitor numbers and good value, shoulder season prices.

Weather in June

Tanzania in July

July is considered to be the start of the peak season, with no rainfall expected and pleasant daytime temperatures. As the parks dry, the wildlife congregates in fewer areas, grass is eaten and trampled by the migration, and game viewing gets better and better. The wildebeest are typically arriving in the northern Serengeti, ready to begin their period of crossings of the Mara River. In the Selous and Ruaha wildlife sightings can be fantastic, with animals gathering around the lakes and rivers. Great conditions and school holidays mean the parks are at their busiest, with Ngorongoro and the Serengeti particularly crowded.

• Dry and warm daytimes, chilly and windy in the mornings and evenings.
• Great wildlife viewing, as water sources diminish.
• The most popular time of year with very high visitor numbers.
• Prices are at their highest due to the great conditions on the ground.
• To avoid the crowds consider Tanzania’s southern parks.

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Tanzania in August

August is the middle of the long dry season, with clear skies and sunny weather. You can expect some cooler weather at night and first thing in the morning. Remember to pack layered clothing, so you can wrap up warm on your early morning game drives, but remain comfortable as it heats up throughout the day. August is a very popular time to visit, so accommodation prices are at their highest and advanced booking is necessary. It can get noticeably busier in some of the northern parks – in particular the Ngorongoro Crater and northern Serengeti, as visitors flock to the area in hope of witnessing an exciting migration river crossing.

• Dry and warm daytimes, chilly in the early mornings and evenings.
• General wildlife viewing should be excellent.
• An exciting time of year for the wildebeest migration.
• Certain areas will be very busy and camps fill up fast.
• Great wildlife sightings in the Selous and Ruaha, and fewer people.

Weather in August

Tanzania in September

September can be an excellent time of year to visit Tanzania. As the parks continue to dry up the wildlife becomes increasingly reliant on the remaining water sources, leading to high densities of animals. Whilst early September can be busy, with fewer families traveling at this time the parks typically become quieter as the month goes on. You are still likely to see the wildebeest migration in the northern Serengeti, with river crossings occurring on a regular basis. Tanzania’s southern parks are also fantastic at this time of year, generally receiving far fewer visitors than the north, and wildlife sightings can be great. Prices remain high and the weather generally remains good.

• Wildlife viewing in September can be fantastic.
• Whilst still fairly busy, often the parks are typically a little quiet
• The parks will start to become very dry, with little new vegetation
• Cooler mornings and evenings, warming up during the day.
• Prices remain high.

Weather in September

Tanzania in October

At the tail end of the dry season, the wildlife should be the easiest to spot, although photographers should be aware that it can be a bit dusty at this time of year, as there has been no rain for several months. Great general wildlife viewing throughout as animals are attracted to remaining sources of water. Elephant numbers are particularly high at this time in Tarangire, and Mahale and Katavi are especially rewarding with frequent wildlife sightings close to camp. There is a chance of rainfall towards the end of the month, if the short rains commence. While prices remain high, visitors numbers are significantly lower than in July-August.

• Mostly dry and temperatures comfortably warm, with the chance of storm
• Great game viewing although the landscape can be a bit barren.
• Much lower visitor numbers than the earlier months.

Weather in October

Tanzania in November

In November you can expect the start of the short rains, although the start date varies every year. The rains are highly localised, and are much lighter and more unpredictable than the long rains that occur earlier in the year. These should not really interfere with your safari – as the game viewing at this time is still good - but you should pack a waterproof jacket and be prepared for some short rain showers! The majority of tented camps remain open, but some of the mobile camps in Northern Tanzania will close for the latter half on the month. Given the seasonality, camps are charging shoulder season rates so there are often some bargains to be had. Early November can offer great value for money and the weather conditions are likely to be comparable to late October.

• Parks are comparatively quiet and prices at the lower end.
• Some camps will close towards the end of the month for maintenance.
• Good wildlife sightings, but animals will disperse when rain starts
• The wildebeest migration is on the move and the location unpredictable

Weather in November

Tanzania in December

December is also during the short rainy period, but this does not stop Tanzania being a popular destination to spend the festive period. Be aware that many of the lodges book up early, and charge peak rates over this time. Advanced booking is essential over this period, especially if travelling in larger family groups. Travelling in December outside of the festive period allows travellers to make use of excellent shoulder season rates. Temperatures are pleasant with the averages of 27Celsius, although there is the chance of intermittent thunderstorms.

• Variable weather:clear & dry or cloudy with some rain and thunderstorm
• Good general game viewing in parks with low seasonality - Serengeti.
• Very quiet early in the month, becoming exceptionally busy.
• Prices reflect this – great value rising to the highest they are.
• The wildlife in southern Tanzania is more dispersed.

Weather in December

Other areas in Tanzania

Dar es Salaam

Ngorongoro Crater

Mafia Island

Tanzania Coast

Mahale Mountains

Pemba Island

Mikumi & Udzungwa

Fanjove Island

Rubondo Island

Lake Natron

Lupita Island

Tanzania fact file

Useful information and advice to help you prepare for a trip including Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Flights to Tanzania

How to get to and within the country

LGBT travel in Tanzania

Attitudes, the law & our experiences

Privately guided safaris

Safari with a private guide in your own 4WD

The Great Wildebeest Migration

Info to maximise the experience

Tanzania general info

Essential travel information

Tipping in Tanzania

Expectations & guidelines for tipping

Weather & climate

The best time to visit Tanzania

Excursions from Lake Manyara Serena

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Lake Manyara Serena. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.

Lake Manyara Safari

Half-day or full-day

Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park makes a great safari destination. Here, along with elephant herds and plains game, you’ll find jungle-like forests that are home to blue monkeys, a soda lake tinged pink by flamingos and some of Tanzania’s best birding.

Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway

Usually one hour

Experience the forest of Lake Manyara National Park from a whole new perspective – high up in the trees. The first suspended walkway in Tanzania, it stretches underneath the canopy for 370m between the mahogany and fig trees, giving intrepid visitors a unique view of the surrounding flora and fauna.

Mto Wa Mbu Village Walk

Two to three hours

Discover the nuances of day-to-day life in the large Tanzanian village of Mto Wa Mbu with a knowledgeable local guide. This is not a village set up for tourists – Mto Wa Mbu is a real community and offers a chance to see a side of Tanzania that many visitors pass by.

Other lodges in Lake Manyara National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Kirurumu Manyara

With spectacular views over Lake Manyara, Kirurumu is one of the simplest camps we offer in northern Tanzania.

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Comfortable, stylish and remote, Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is one of only two places to stay inside the park, and offers excellent guiding and service.

Escarpment Lux Lodge

Escarpment Luxury Lodge offers stylish, modern accommodation and stunning views of Lake Manyara National Park.

Manyara Green Camp

With comfortable tents and an adventurous atmosphere, Lake Manyara Green Camp is one of two camps located inside the park.

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Green Garden Safa ri

Serena Lake Manyara

Serena Lake Manyara Tanzania’s towering Mto wa Mbu escarpment provides a remarkable backdrop for a one-of-a-kind visit. Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge welcomes you with a peaceful location amidst the rich wildlife and unsurpassed tranquility of Lake Manyara National Park. The lake is home to over 300 migratory birds including flamingoes, long-crested eagles and grey-headed kingfisher; our lodge is designed to mimic this extraordinary birdlife, with an architectural motif featuring swooping avian curves and vibrantly coloured wall frescoes depicting the intricacy of bird migratory patterns.

Location lake manyara best months to v isit january, february, march, april, may, june, july, august, september, october, november, december, monthly information.

• Accommodation

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Lodge  |  lake manyara, see the great rift valley with lake manyara serena safari lodge.

Located at the edge of the Mto wa Mbu escarpment, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge overlooks the Great Rift Valley and the expansive Manyara soda lake. This prime location offers guests both a thrilling safari adventure and a tranquil getaway from city life, with activities ranging from mountain-biking to visiting the neighbouring villages.

Lake Manyara National Park has plenty to offer in terms of animal sightings, which are bound to happen during morning and afternoon game drives. From tree-climbing lions to the sizeable elephant population, exciting animal encounters are frequent and a joy to behold. Bird lovers will surely be enthralled by the masses of pink flamingos and various birds of prey flocking around the lake, which can also be seen from the lodge and its rooms.

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge has a wide selection of rooms and suites available, ensuring there is something to suit your needs and budget. Each room or suite features an en suite bathroom, Wi-Fi, laundry and room services, hairdryer, and various toiletries. Children are more than welcome and children’s meals, beds, and babysitting are all offered.

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Highlights

• Set in the Lake Manyara National Park, a pristine location named after the serene Manyara soda lake
• There’s plenty to do: mountain-biking, canoeing, boating, and even target archery
• Exciting morning, afternoon, and optional night game drives through the African wild
• Child-friendly accommodation with great features and views of the lake below

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Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

This unique african-style lodge sits high on an escarpment in mto wa mbu, overlooking the shimmering waters of lake manyara..

The main reception, dining and bar areas are built around a striking infinity pool, which looks straight out over the cliffs onto the Lake Manyara National Park below.

Guests are accommodated in 67 rooms housed within numerous double-storey rondavels,circular whitewashed stone buildings with thatched roofs, which are spread out across the ridge to maximise views. Each guest room is decorated with colourful Maasai motifs and hand-woven rugs, with small private verandas.

The proximity of Lake Manyara Serena Lodge to the lake allows guests to take boat trips or mountain biking tours to discover its rich ecosystem. The reserve surrounding the lake is home to a huge variety of birdlife as well as unique tree-climbing lions. Enjoy informative talks and presentations about local wildlife and tribes or maybe visit traditional villages in the vicinity of Mto wa Mbu. The lodge also offers watercolour painting and archery.

Camp Location

How to get to Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Mto wa Mbu is approximately 130km or 2.5 hours by road from Arusha. Alternatively, guests can fly to an airstrip adjacent to Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, where they are met and transferred on arrival.

Activities at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

• Day and night game drives
• Boat trips on Lake Manyara
• Mountain biking
• Village walks
• Onsite archery and watercolour painting

*Some activities are available at extra cost.

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Highlights

• An African-style lodge with unsurpassable views over Lake Manyara
• All the facilities of a five-star hotel from an infinity pool to archery range
• Close to traditional villages
• Opportunities for forest walks and canoeing in the Lake Manyara National Park
• Chance to participate in mountain biking

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

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TANZANIA Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Amenity Highlights:

• Swimming Pool
• Restaurant and Bar

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge:

Standing high on the bluff of a dramatic ochre and terracotta streaked cliff above the flamingo-frosted expanse of Lake Manyara’s gleaming alkaline waters, the Lodge commands panoramic views across the volcano-studded floor of the Great Rift Valley. Designed to reflect the brilliance of Lake Manyara’s unique birdlife, the Lodge draws on an inspirational architectural motif that melds swooping avian curves with the gentle concentric patterns of traditional Maasai ‘Bomas’ (encampments) whilst the vibrantly coloured frescoes lining the walls are designed to depict the colourful intricacy of bird migratory patterns. The ambiance of the Lodge is a fusion of lakeside tranquility, towering volcanic splendour and adventure-packed sporting activity.

As to wildlife, the park offers abundant sightings of; monkey, jackal, mongoose, hyena, hyrax, zebra, hippo, warthog, buffalo, Masai giraffe, duiker, waterbuck and impala. Significant numbers of elephant are also resident in the Park whilst sightings of black rhino and leopard are not uncommon. Manyara is also especially noted for its wealth of bird life, being visited by many thousands of sugar-pink Lesser Flamingos, significant numbers of Greater Flamingos and a host of other woodland, plains and water birds.

Available Activities :

• Lake Manyara National Park game drives
• Village walk
• Maasai village visit
• Treetop walkway
• Nature walk

*Activities may require additional cost

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Lake Manyara Serena Lodge

Hotel description.

Tanzania’s towering Mto wa Mbu escarpment provides a remarkable backdrop for a one-of-a-kind visit. Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge welcomes you with a peaceful location amidst the rich wildlife and unsurpassed tranquility of Lake Manyara National Park. The lake is home to over 300 migratory birds including flamingoes, long-crested eagles and grey-headed kingfisher; our lodge is designed to mimic this extraordinary birdlife, with an architectural motif featuring swooping avian curves and vibrantly coloured wall frescoes depicting the intricacy of bird migratory patterns.

Read Reviews for Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge in TripAdvisor

The Village Lunch

The village lunch is a unique insight into the daily life of local residents. Guests enjoy a fascinating stroll around the village in the company of a trained guide, followed by a delicious buffet lunch in a pretty clearing amongst the banana plantations.

Hotel Facilities

• A selection of ensuite rooms and suites
• Central dining room and bar
• Outside dining terrace
• Poolside bar
• Safari game drives daily
• Swimming pool and pool deck
• Bush dinner site within the grounds
• Tented conference room

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Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

View prices for your travel dates

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• Excellent 517
• Very Good 410
• Average 105
• All languages ( 1,063 )
• English ( 829 )
• German ( 65 )
• French ( 43 )

" Go early to the park. As we were driving out, car after car was driving in. Not the same experience with everyone crowding for same photos. "

" There better deals in low season "

" Book the suite "

" No mosquito net. Good WiFi "

" I think it just can't be better "

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

LAKE MANYARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE - Updated 2024 Reviews, Photos & Prices

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Services & Amenities Dining Room, Bar, Swimming Pool, Curio Shop, Meeting and Conference Facilities, Beauty and Spa Treatments, Library, Nature Trails, Laundry Service, Valet, Baby-Sitting, Centralized Safe Boxes, Internet Access, En-Suite Bathrooms, Mosquito Nets, Private Verandas.

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

View prices for your travel dates

• Excellent 517
• Very Good 410
• Average 105
• All languages ( 1,063 )
• English ( 829 )
• German ( 65 )
• French ( 43 )

" Go early to the park. As we were driving out, car after car was driving in. Not the same experience with everyone crowding for same photos. "

" There better deals in low season "

" Book the suite "

" No mosquito net. Good WiFi "

" I think it just can't be better "

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

LAKE MANYARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE - Updated 2024

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

> Manyara

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is standing high on the bluff of a dramatic ochre and terracotta streaked cliff. Above the flamingo-frosted expanse of Lake Manyara’s gleaming alkaline waters, the Lodge commands panoramic views across the volcano-studded floor of the Great Rift Valley.

Tanzania’s towering Mto Wa Mbu escarpment provides a remarkable backdrop for a one-of-a-kind visit. Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge welcomes you with a peaceful location amidst the rich wildlife and unsurpassed Lake Manyara National Park's tranquillity. The lake is home to over 300 migratory birds including flamingoes, long-crested eagles and grey-headed kingfisher. The lodge is designed to mimic this extraordinary birdlife, with an architectural motif swooping avian curves and vibrantly coloured wall frescoes depicting migratory bird patterns' intricacy.

Just Outside Lake Manyara

Only in Common Area

Common Pool

Rooms Count:

THE LODGE/CAMP:

Spread along the cliff's edge to allow for the most incredible views. This accommodation consists of circular, double-storey, whitewashed "rondavels" (traditional circular buildings with conical thatched roofs), including their own small veranda. The interior décor echoes the blue of the lake and the pink of its flamingos. Behind each bed hangs a spectacular hand-woven rug, while furnishings and fittings reflect traditional Maasai beadwork.

Price is included for Standard room in Lake Manyara Serena is - One king or two twin beds for a double room; Free Wi-Fi Bath amenities Work desk and chair Coffee/tea making station Robe and slippers Hairdryer Safe Veranda Welcome amenity.

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Close to the Lake Manyara wildlife eco system, Easy access to the park. 

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