Tree Climbing Lions of Lake Manyara

One of Africa’s rarest wildlife behaviors, found in one of Tanzania’s most beautiful parks

When most of people think of lions, they imagine powerful cats lounging in the grass or stalking prey across open savannahs. But in Lake Manyara National Park, lions have developed a surprising and rarely seen behavior, they climb trees.

Full grown African lions, resting on thick branches like leopards. This unusual behavior has made Lake Manyara one of the best places in the world to see tree climbing lions, drawing curious travelers and photographers from around the globe.

🦁 Why Do Lions Climb Trees?

Unlike leopards, which climb trees regularly to stash food or avoid larger predators, lions are not natural climbers. But in Lake Manyara, they defy expectations.

There are a few theories behind this unique behavior

1. Avoiding Tsetse Flies or Heat

Lions may climb trees to escape irritating insects or enjoy the breeze higher up in the canopy.

2. Better Viewpoints

A higher vantage point gives them a strategic lookout for prey or threats.

3. Cooler Resting Spots

Tree branches offer shade and cooler spots, especially during the heat of the day.

4. Learned Behavior

It may have started with a few individuals and spread over generations as a learned survival tactic.

Regardless of the reason, watching a pride of lions lounging in trees is a truly unforgettable safari moment.

🌍 Why Lake Manyara Is Special

Lake Manyara National Park, located just a short drive from Arusha, is often overshadowed by the Serengeti and Ngorongoro but it’s a gem of biodiversity. The park offers:

A compact yet rich habitat that supports elephants, giraffes, hippos, buffaloes, flamingos, and of course, lions.

A stunning backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, forests, marshlands, and the alkaline Lake Manyara itself.

The best chance in northern Tanzania to see lions in the trees, especially during the dry season (June to October).

📸 When and Where to See Tree-Climbing Lions

Lions can be seen year-round, but sightings are more frequent in the dry season when vegetation is thinner.

They are most commonly found in the southern parts of the park, where acacia and fig trees provide strong, low branches ideal for climbing.

Morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best light for spotting and photographing these elusive tree-top predators.

🔎 Pro Tip: Bring binoculars and a zoom lens, sometimes lions blend perfectly into the trees!