Altitude: 960 m.a.m.s.l.
A dense forest on the northern end of
lake Manyara national park that is gets its supply of water from the underground rivers, springs and streams, unlike conventional rain forests that are supported by high rainfall.
It is home to several species of monkeys and birds, along with the country's first treetop canopy walkway.
What to do there?Take a walk through the tree top canopy walkway, spend a night at the park rest houses or have game drives, both during the day and night. Bird watching is also possible - especially for breeding species,
For a list of other places to see in the national park, please see our
attractions page.
Best time to visit?Any time of the year.
Location of Groundwater forestThe groundwater forest is located on the northern end of lake Manyara national park, visible from the Makuyuni - Ngorongoro highway. It also sits at the foot of the rift valley wall, and on the western outskirts of Mto wa Mbu.
For more information on this location, please see the map below.
How to get there?By air or by road, with the latter using the lake Manyara airstrip about a 10 minute drive away, with flights from most regions of the country.
There are passenger buses through the highway near it, though you may still need a vehicle to get into the park - which should be arranged before getting to the area, but can also be found at Mto wa Mbu.
Alternatively, a private or rental vehicle can be used, with no preference as to the type - though different vehicles pay different fees. Park tariffs for a normal self game drive usually include conservation fees, vehicle fees and possibly camping or accommodation fees.
For more information on park fees and tariffs, please see the
TANAPA website.
