Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari
The Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari combines two contrasting nature experiences within northern Tanzania.
Rau Forest near Moshi offers guided walking beneath a green canopy, while Lake Manyara National Park provides vehicle based wildlife viewing through forest, woodland, open areas and lake influenced habitats.
The forest portion can focus on trees, monkeys, birdlife, butterflies, conservation and nearby community landscapes.
The Lake Manyara portion is explored by safari vehicle with a professional guide searching for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, antelopes, monkeys, baboons, birds and predators where naturally encountered.
This combination is suitable for travellers who want to experience Tanzania both on foot and through a traditional game drive.
The itinerary can be arranged as a short 2 day program or included within a longer Kilimanjaro, safari and Zanzibar holiday.
Wildlife remains free ranging in both destinations, so no individual animal or bird sighting can be guaranteed.
Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari at a Glance
- Main destinations: Rau Forest and Lake Manyara National Park.
- Starting point: Moshi or another agreed location.
- Forest activity: Guided nature walking.
- Forest wildlife: Monkeys, birds, butterflies and smaller wildlife where encountered.
- Safari activity: Lake Manyara wildlife game drive.
- Possible safari wildlife: Elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, antelopes, baboons, monkeys and predators where encountered.
- Tour style: Private and customisable.
- Suggested duration: 2 days or longer.
Why Choose a Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari?
This itinerary combines a quiet walking experience close to Moshi with a classic northern Tanzania wildlife safari.
Rau Forest encourages slower observation of trees, birds, monkeys and smaller forest wildlife.
Lake Manyara provides a broader safari landscape where travellers can explore by 4x4 vehicle and observe wildlife across several different habitats.
The combination is especially attractive for travellers looking for variety within a relatively compact northern Tanzania itinerary.
Main Tour Highlights
- Guided Rau Forest walk
- Mature forest trees and vegetation
- Monkey viewing opportunities
- Birdwatching
- Butterflies and smaller wildlife
- Forest conservation learning
- Optional community experiences
- Lake Manyara wildlife game drive
- Groundwater forest scenery
- Lake and Rift Valley landscapes
- Professional safari guide
- Private 4x4 safari arrangements
Suggested Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari Itinerary
DAY
01
MOSHI – RAU FOREST – MOSHI
Rau Forest Nature and Cultural Experience
Begin with pickup from your hotel or agreed location in Moshi and travel toward Rau Forest.
Meet your local guide and receive an introduction to the forest environment and walking route.
Start exploring on foot beneath the forest canopy while learning about trees, vegetation, wildlife habitats and conservation.
Possible Rau Forest Experiences
- Guided forest walking.
- Learn about mature trees and vegetation.
- Look for monkeys in the canopy.
- Listen and look for forest birds.
- Observe butterflies and smaller wildlife.
- Learn about local conservation.
- Visit community or farming areas where included.
The local guide can explain selected plants and traditional knowledge where appropriate.
The walking distance and pace can be adapted according to the program and group ability.
Local food or community activities can be added where specifically included.
After completing the Rau Forest experience, return to Moshi or continue to accommodation according to the confirmed itinerary.
Main Activity
Guided forest walking.
Nature
Monkeys, birds and forest vegetation where encountered.
Guide
Local nature guide.
DAY
02
MOSHI – LAKE MANYARA – MOSHI OR ARUSHA
Lake Manyara Wildlife Safari
Depart early and travel toward Lake Manyara National Park for the safari portion of the itinerary.
After completing the applicable park procedures, begin exploring the park with a professional safari guide.
The game drive can pass through forest, woodland, open areas and lake influenced habitats beneath the Rift Valley escarpment.
Possible Lake Manyara Safari Experiences
- Explore groundwater forest habitats.
- Look for elephants and giraffes.
- Observe baboons and monkeys where encountered.
- Search for zebras, buffalo and antelopes.
- Look for predators where naturally present.
- Enjoy birdwatching opportunities.
- View lake and Rift Valley scenery.
Stop for lunch according to the confirmed safari arrangement and continue exploring different parts of the park.
Your guide can explain wildlife behaviour, habitats, vegetation and the relationship between the lake and surrounding ecosystem.
After the game drive, return to Moshi, continue to Arusha or travel to another safari accommodation according to the confirmed itinerary.
Main Activity
Lake Manyara wildlife game drive.
Safari Vehicle
4x4 safari vehicle according to the package.
Wildlife
Sightings depend on natural animal movement.
Rau Forest Nature Experience
Rau Forest offers an intimate nature experience close to Moshi.
Travellers explore on foot rather than by safari vehicle, allowing more time to notice trees, plants, bird calls, monkeys and smaller wildlife.
The forest experience also provides opportunities to learn about conservation and surrounding community landscapes.
Guided Rau Forest Walk
A local guide accompanies visitors through the selected forest route.
The guide can provide information about vegetation, conservation, wildlife habitats and selected traditional plant knowledge.
The exact route depends on local conditions and the confirmed program.
Monkey Watching in Rau Forest
Monkeys may be encountered during the walk.
Visitors should observe wildlife quietly and avoid feeding, touching or chasing animals.
Sightings cannot be guaranteed because monkeys move freely throughout the forest.
Birdwatching in Rau Forest
The forest can provide opportunities to observe and listen to different birds.
Binoculars can be useful for seeing birds higher in the canopy.
Bird activity varies naturally according to season, weather and time of day.
Rau Forest Nature Highlights
- Mature forest trees
- Dense vegetation
- Monkey viewing opportunities
- Birdlife
- Butterflies
- Small forest wildlife
- Conservation learning
- Nature photography
Community Experience Around Rau Forest
Community tourism can be included in selected Rau Forest programs.
Travellers can learn about farming, local livelihoods and everyday life in the wider Kilimanjaro region.
These activities should be arranged respectfully with local guides and hosts.
Local Food Experience
A locally prepared meal can be added where specifically included.
This can provide a cultural element alongside the forest walk.
Dietary requirements should be communicated before travel.
Discover Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara provides the classic safari component of the itinerary.
The park contains several habitat types within a relatively compact area, creating opportunities to experience forest, woodland, open landscapes and lake influenced environments during one game drive.
The Rift Valley escarpment forms a dramatic background to parts of the park.
Groundwater Forest Scenery
The forested sections of Lake Manyara create a different atmosphere from more open savannah parks.
Visitors may encounter primates, elephants and other wildlife within or near these habitats.
The exact distribution of animals varies from day to day.
Lake and Rift Valley Landscapes
The lake and surrounding Rift Valley landscape are important visual features of the safari.
Water levels and the appearance of shoreline areas can change according to rainfall and seasonal conditions.
Travellers should therefore expect a naturally changing environment rather than a fixed landscape.
Elephants in Lake Manyara
Elephants may be encountered during a Lake Manyara game drive.
Your guide can search suitable habitats, but no specific animal sighting can be guaranteed.
Travellers should observe elephants quietly and from an appropriate distance.
Baboons and Monkeys
Primates are among the wildlife travellers may encounter in Lake Manyara.
Baboons and monkeys can sometimes be seen along forested sections and other suitable habitats.
Visitors should never feed wildlife.
Wildlife You May See in Lake Manyara
- Elephants
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Buffalo
- Baboons
- Monkeys
- Warthogs
- Different antelope species
- Lions where encountered
- Other predators where naturally present
- Many bird species
All wildlife sightings depend on natural movement, habitat, food, water and seasonal conditions.
Predator Viewing in Lake Manyara
Lions and other predators may be present within the Lake Manyara ecosystem.
Your guide may search suitable habitats during the game drive, but predator sightings can never be guaranteed.
Birdwatching in Lake Manyara
The mixture of lake, forest and open habitats can create varied birdwatching opportunities.
Travellers interested in birds should bring binoculars where possible.
Species and numbers change according to habitat and seasonal conditions.
Professional Safari Guide
The Lake Manyara game drive is led by a professional safari guide familiar with park roads, habitats and wildlife behaviour.
The guide can explain the ecosystem and help locate wildlife while following applicable park regulations.
4x4 Safari Vehicle
The safari section is normally operated using a 4x4 vehicle suitable for wildlife viewing.
A pop up roof or another suitable viewing arrangement may be used according to the vehicle provided.
Private Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari
The itinerary can be arranged privately for the confirmed travelling party.
Private arrangements provide dedicated guiding and transportation and allow the schedule to focus on the group's interests within operational requirements.
Private Tour Advantages
- Dedicated Rau Forest guide
- Flexible forest walking pace
- Dedicated safari vehicle
- Professional safari guide
- Photography stops where safe
- Flexible accommodation choices
Tour for Solo Travellers
Solo travellers can arrange a private Rau Forest and Lake Manyara itinerary.
The program can focus on nature, photography, birdwatching and wildlife.
Private solo travel normally has a higher per person cost because vehicle, guide and transport expenses are not shared.
Tour for Couples
Couples can enjoy a private forest experience followed by a Lake Manyara safari.
The itinerary can also be extended with lodge accommodation or additional safari parks.
Family Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari
The combination can be suitable for families because it includes both walking and vehicle based wildlife viewing.
The Rau Forest walking distance can be adapted according to children's ages where possible.
Driving time and the length of the Lake Manyara game drive should also be considered for younger travellers.
Accommodation Options
The itinerary can be operated from Moshi or expanded with accommodation near Lake Manyara, Mto wa Mbu, Karatu or another suitable location.
Possible Accommodation Styles
- Moshi hotel
- Budget guesthouse
- Camping safari
- Mid range lodge
- Tented safari camp
- Comfort lodge
- Higher comfort accommodation on request
Meals During the Tour
Meal arrangements depend on the confirmed package.
The Rau Forest portion may include a locally prepared meal where specifically arranged.
The Lake Manyara safari can include lunch according to the confirmed itinerary.
Dietary requirements should be communicated before departure.
What to Wear
- Comfortable closed walking shoes
- Lightweight trousers
- Comfortable shirt
- Light fleece or jacket
- Rain jacket where appropriate
- Sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Comfortable safari clothing
What to Bring
- Small daypack
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or phone
- Binoculars
- Sunscreen
- Sun hat
- Rain protection
- Insect repellent
- Personal medication
Typical Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari Inclusions
- Transportation according to the confirmed itinerary
- Rau Forest local guide
- Guided Rau Forest walk
- Applicable Rau Forest arrangements included in the quotation
- Selected community activities where specifically included
- Professional safari guide
- 4x4 safari vehicle according to the package
- Lake Manyara park entry arrangements included in the quotation
- Lake Manyara game drive
- Meals specifically stated as included
- Drinking water according to the package
- Accommodation where specifically included
Typical Tour Exclusions
- International flights
- Tanzania visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Activities not listed in the confirmed quotation
- Additional accommodation not specifically included
- Tips for guides and staff
- Services not specifically stated as included
Best Time for the Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari
The itinerary can be arranged during different periods of the year.
Rau Forest conditions vary with rainfall, and wetter periods may create greener vegetation but muddier walking trails.
Lake Manyara wildlife distribution and lake conditions also change according to rainfall, water levels, food availability and natural animal movement.
No season guarantees individual wildlife sightings.
Responsible Rau Forest Tourism
Visitors should explore Rau Forest in a way that protects wildlife and vegetation.
Responsible Nature and Safari Guidelines
- Do not feed wildlife.
- Do not chase animals for photographs.
- Avoid damaging forest vegetation.
- Do not leave litter.
- Follow guide instructions.
- Observe wildlife from appropriate distances.
- Respect park and forest regulations.
Responsible Wildlife Viewing in Lake Manyara
Animals should be observed without unnecessary disturbance.
Wildlife should never be fed or chased for photographs.
The safari guide selects suitable viewing positions and follows applicable national park rules.
Starting the Tour from Moshi
Moshi is a convenient starting point for the Rau Forest portion of the itinerary.
The Lake Manyara safari can depart from Moshi the following morning or be connected with another accommodation arrangement.
Starting or Finishing in Arusha
The itinerary can also incorporate Arusha when required.
Travellers can finish the Lake Manyara safari in Arusha rather than returning to Moshi when this is arranged in advance.
Combine With Mto wa Mbu
Mto wa Mbu can be added to a Lake Manyara itinerary for travellers interested in additional cultural activities.
Possible experiences depend on the selected program and available time.
Combine With Tarangire
Tarangire can be added to create a longer safari after Rau Forest and Lake Manyara.
This introduces another wildlife environment with distinctive woodland and baobab landscapes.
Combine With Ngorongoro
Ngorongoro can be added when additional safari time is available.
This creates a longer northern Tanzania itinerary with different landscapes and game viewing opportunities.
Combine With Serengeti
Serengeti can be included when several additional safari days are available.
This creates a longer journey through the northern safari circuit.
Combine With Mount Kilimanjaro
The Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari can be arranged before or after a Mount Kilimanjaro climb.
Rau Forest can provide a gentle nature activity around Moshi, while Lake Manyara offers a wildlife experience before or after mountain trekking.
Combine With Zanzibar
Zanzibar can be added after the forest and safari program.
This creates a wider Tanzania journey combining forest nature, wildlife and the Indian Ocean coast.
Customise Your Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari
Possible Customisation Options
- Short Rau Forest walk
- Longer forest nature experience
- Birdwatching focus
- Community tourism activity
- Local food experience
- Private Lake Manyara safari
- Mto wa Mbu cultural extension
- Tarangire extension
- Ngorongoro extension
- Serengeti extension
- Kilimanjaro climb or day hike
- Zanzibar extension
Important Information About the Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari
The Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari combines a guided walking forest experience with a vehicle based wildlife safari.
The exact Rau Forest route and optional community activities should be confirmed before departure.
Monkeys, birds and other wildlife in Rau Forest cannot be guaranteed.
Lake Manyara wildlife also moves naturally and cannot be guaranteed on an individual game drive.
Water levels, vegetation and road conditions can change according to weather and seasonal conditions.
Travellers should follow local guide instructions and national park regulations throughout the itinerary.
Why Book This Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari?
The Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari combines intimate forest exploration with a classic northern Tanzania wildlife experience.
Travellers can walk beneath the Rau Forest canopy, look for monkeys and birds and learn about conservation before continuing to Lake Manyara for forest scenery, lake landscapes and wildlife game drives.
With local guiding, safari transportation and selected activities organised according to the confirmed package, the itinerary offers a flexible way to experience two different sides of northern Tanzania within a short journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari?
It is a combined itinerary featuring a guided Rau Forest walking experience followed by a wildlife safari in Lake Manyara National Park.
Can the tour start from Moshi?
Yes. Moshi is a convenient base for Rau Forest and can also be used as the departure point for Lake Manyara.
How many days do you recommend?
A simple version can be organised over 2 days, with Rau Forest on one day and Lake Manyara on the next. Longer safari extensions can also be added.
Will we see monkeys in Rau Forest?
Monkeys may be encountered, but sightings cannot be guaranteed because they move freely through the forest.
Can we see birds in Rau Forest?
Yes. Birdwatching opportunities are possible, although specific species cannot be guaranteed.
Which animals may we see in Lake Manyara?
Possible sightings include elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, baboons, monkeys, antelopes, warthogs and predators where naturally encountered.
Can we see elephants?
Elephants may be encountered in Lake Manyara, but all wildlife sightings depend on natural movement.
Can we see lions?
Lions may be present within the park, but predator sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Is Lake Manyara good for birdwatching?
The park's lake, forest and open habitats can provide varied birdwatching opportunities, but species and numbers change with natural conditions.
Is the tour private?
Yes. A private Rau Forest and Lake Manyara itinerary can be arranged for the confirmed travelling party.
Can solo travellers book the tour?
Yes. A private itinerary can be arranged for one traveller, although the per person cost is normally higher because fixed costs are not shared.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes. The Rau Forest walking distance can be adapted where possible, while safari driving hours should also be considered when travelling with younger children.
Can local food be included at Rau Forest?
Yes. A locally prepared meal can be included when specifically arranged in the cultural program.
Can Mto wa Mbu be included?
Yes. Mto wa Mbu cultural activities can be added when sufficient time is available.
Can Tarangire be added?
Yes. Tarangire can be included as an additional safari destination.
Can Ngorongoro be added?
Yes. Ngorongoro can be added as part of a longer northern Tanzania safari itinerary.
Can Serengeti be added?
Yes. Serengeti can be included when several additional safari days are available.
Can this tour be combined with Kilimanjaro?
Yes. Rau Forest and Lake Manyara can be arranged before or after a Mount Kilimanjaro climb or combined with a permitted Kilimanjaro day hike.
Can Zanzibar be added?
Yes. Zanzibar can be added after the forest and safari portion of the itinerary.
How do I book the Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari?
Provide your preferred dates, number of travellers, pickup location, accommodation preference and any additional safari destinations so a personalised itinerary and quotation can be prepared.
Plan Your Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari
Walk beneath the Rau Forest canopy, look for monkeys and birds and learn about conservation before continuing to Lake Manyara for forest scenery, Rift Valley landscapes and a northern Tanzania wildlife game drive.
Book Your Rau Forest and Lake Manyara Safari
