andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge — Africa's Only Mahogany Forest Treehouse Lodge

andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge holds a unique position that no other accommodation in Tanzania can claim: it is the only permanent lodge located inside Lake Manyara National Park. Cradled in the upper branches of an ancient mahogany forest on the park's remote western shore, ten stilted treehouse suites are crafted from local timber and makuti palm fronds and elevated above the forest floor where elephants pass below and birds fill the canopy above. It is safari accommodation at its most atmospheric.

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania's most biodiverse parks despite its compact size. The soda lake attracts vast flocks of flamingos, pelicans and other waterbirds. The groundwater forest is home to troops of baboon and blue monkey. The park's famous tree-climbing lions rest in the fig trees by the lake's edge. Buffalo, hippo, elephant, giraffe, zebra and impala are resident. The park is also one of the only places in Tanzania where night drives are permitted — an andBeyond exclusive, offering nocturnal wildlife encounters that no other Manyara property can provide.

Accommodation

Ten stilted treehouse suites are positioned among the mahogany branches, each with panoramic forest and lake views, en-suite bathrooms with bath and indoor shower, private outdoor showers with forest views, and spacious verandas that feel suspended in the canopy. Interiors use natural materials — timber, makuti, local fabrics — to create spaces that are warm, intimate and thoroughly connected to the surrounding forest. A two-bedroom family suite accommodates families. Larger suites with a separate lounge and private butler are available for couples wanting additional space and service. A healing wellness philosophy runs through the lodge — guests are encouraged to slow down, use the spa treatments and reconnect with nature rather than rush from drive to drive.

The main lodge area is set on a raised platform with views to the lake. A spa, swimming pool, interactive kitchen (guests can participate in cooking sessions), and communal dining and lounge spaces complete the facilities. A sleepout platform in the forest allows guests to spend a night under the stars on a simple sleeping platform — a completely unique experience.

Activities

Morning and afternoon game drives in the national park are the core activity. Night drives — permitted only for andBeyond as the resident lodge — allow encounters with bush babies, genets, civets, porcupines, and occasionally leopard and lions on the move. A community cycling excursion visits the Mayoka village. The lodge's healing therapies and spa programme are available between drives. The sleepout platform in the mahogany forest is available on selected evenings.

Who Is Manyara Tree Lodge Best For?

This lodge is for travellers who want something genuinely different on the Northern Circuit. The treehouse setting, the mahogany forest atmosphere, the night drives and the sleepout are experiences no other Lake Manyara property can offer. It suits couples and honeymooners strongly — the intimate setting, the wellness focus and the romantic dining are well suited. Families with children of all ages are also welcome.