It is difficult to imagine a more spectacular setting for Lake Manyara Serena Lodge - on the edge of the Mto Wa Mbu escarpment, overlooking the Great Rift Valley and the stunning Manyara soda lake. Tree-climbing lions are but one lure. The extraordinary birdlife has made this place world-renowned among ornithologists, who come to observe the masses of pink flamingos and great birds of prey.

The abundant birdlife inspired the design of Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge - swooping curves are complemented by soft, geometric patterns; stylish murals depict bird migration patterns. The circular shape of the buildings is a tribute to indigenous architectural traditions. Beyond the superb standards of hospitality offered, there is a spirit of tranquility that prevails.

Each spacious guest room at Manyara Serena Lodge has a private balcony with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and the soda lake of Manyara. The rooms interior decor compliment the birdlife of the Manyara region.

The unique architecture of the Lodge continues in the restaurant and bar with colorful moldings and complimenting light fixtures that hang from intricately detailed African ceilings. The bar and restaurant offer guests both indoor and outdoor seating at each meal. Sumptuous menus, buffets and barbecues are served to guests alongside authentic African dishes.

The full-service lounge and bar serves fresh fruit juices, soft drinks, tea and coffee, cocktails, wines, spirits and liqueurs. With their graceful domed ceilings, curved walls and colorful murals, the guest lounge is the ideal venue to relax after safari or before and after meals. Both areas offer terrace seating with breathtaking views over Lake Manyara. Each evening after dinner, guests may choose to have their coffee or drinks around the "campfire" where frequently there will be musicians to entertain you.

Lake Manyara National Park is an ornithological paradise with an abundance of birdlife. Verreaux's eagles, vultures, storks, swifts and swallows wing by lodgings atop the spectacular cliffs overlooking the lake. Lake Manyara, at 3,150 feet, is at times replete with flamingos, pelicans, storks and cormorants. The hippo pool, where guests may get out of their vehicles, is located on a freshwater stream that enters the lake at its northern tip.

The park's springs and a dense groundwater forest of giant figs and mahogany shelter blue monkeys, baboons, bush bucks, common water bucks, elephants, and silvery-cheeked horn bills. Acacia woodland and open grassland are frequented by buffalo, wildebeests, impalas, giraffes, zebras, lions, and gray-backed fiscal-shrikes. Streams attract pythons, Nile monitor lizards and mountain wagtails.