Located just outside the park, on the edge of the rift valley, this Serena lodge offers spectacular views of Lake Manyara and the surrounds. With 67 rooms, this is the largest option for Lake Manyara and we find that many prefer smaller camps and lodges but, if travelling with children this could well be perfect. Being a larger, permanent, lodge the range of facilities and activities are excellent, you will find a tv room, large swimming pool, restaurant and bar and a nice little gift shop. Activities on offer include, a treetop walkway, canoeing on the lake, guided forest walks and mountain biking in the area to name a few.

There is a choice between standard rooms and suites, all are en-suite and well furnished with traditional décor and set along the edge of the cliff with the most incredible views. The rooms, or rondavels (traditional circular buildings with conical thatched roofs) are circular, double story, whitewashed buildings that somehow seem to fit well with the surroundings. We tend to suggest some of the smaller options for Manyara but this is perfect if you are travelling as a family or would like a greater range of facilities.