Lake Manyara National Park is located about 130 kilometers from Arusha. A beautiful park, it contains a diverse range of habitats ranging from the rift wall, ground water forest, acacia woodlands, open grasslands, the shore of Lake Manyara and, finally, the lake itself. The park is close enough to Arusha to organize day trips. The best time to visit is during the dry season - June to September and January-February. Visitors are advised to use 4X4 vehicles during the rainy season. There are hotels and lodges at the park. Visitors can indulge in walking safaris or watch the animal and bird life. Huge flocks of flamingoes can be observed around the lake, as well as a plethora of other birds. There are some 350 species of birds in the park. The park provides sanctuary to a variety of animals like the gazelle, impala, buffalo, wildebeest, hyena, baboon, giraffe, hippo and the famous tree-climbing lion.