Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Guests can be forgiven for losing track of which era, or even continent, they are experiencing at Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. Nowhere else on earth can you wake up among all the trappings of an elegant baroque chateau – brocade sofas, gilt mirrors, beaded chandeliers and panelled walls – and be instantly transported into one of the most famous African landscapes with just one glance out the window.
In this place of dramatic contrasts, where Versailles meets Maasai, anything is possible and the natural luxury of the breathtakingly beautiful setting ensures the dramatic interior of your suite blends perfectly with its stilted thatch architecture.
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge has been called the game lodge at the top of the world and, between the natural riches of the Crater spread out at its feet and the amazing architecture, it’s easy to believe that you have entered a realm of pure fantasy. With ever-changing views as mists swirl and clouds scurry over the huge wildlife cauldron below, the location is truly breathtaking. Buffalo and zebra wandering the grounds and tall Maasai warriors in traditional dress escorting guests to their rooms contribute to an atmosphere of African mystique and romance.
Everything at is chosen to delight the imagination and enhance the spectacular views of the magnificent surroundings. An eclectic blend of elegant teak panelling, Victorian furnishings and whimsical African touches creates a sumptuous atmosphere that is as elegant and unique as the Crater itself. Leather chairs recline in front of a lit fireplace and raw silk curtains screen a private veranda. Even the gigantic bathtub set under its hand-beaded chandelier and the massive round shower offer tantalising glimpses of the world’s most famous caldera.
Divided into three camps, 30 stilted suites with banana leaf ceilings and grass roofs provide an intimate and exclusive Crater experience. Each camp has its own sitting and dining areas, with private butlers to provide warm, personal service to each guest. Brocade sofas and Persian rugs invite guests to re-live the day’s experiences around a roaring fire. The domed dining room, where sparkling silver and crystal vie for attention with the huge windows and awe-inspiring views, ensures that the setting, as well as the meal, is one you will never forget.
Daily game drives into the Crater in closed safari vehicles with popup roofs (07h00 to 14h00 and 15h00 to 18h00), birdwatching, half-day trips to Olduvai Gorge and Shifting Sands (subject to vehicle availability). Optional activities at an additional cost include walking on the Crater rim, a cultural Maasai manyatta visit, sundowners overlooking the Crater on one side and the Serengeti on the other (minimum 10 guests), and private bush breakfasts and lunches on the Crater floor.
