We’ve covered the length and breadth of Southern Africa in search of the finest lodges this side of the equator. We’ve shown you the sun-kissed dunes in Namibia, the lagoons in the Okavango Delta of Botswana, the spectacular views of the Victoria Falls from both Zambia and Zimbabwe, the winding and elegant wine lands of South Africa and Mozambique’s sandy white beaches. But we’re not stopping there. Our quest to find the best, most exciting, most luxurious lodges across the African continent has led us to East Africa and to a land of untold mystery and splendour – Tanzania.
How does one go about describing a country that cradles Africa’s largest mountain? A country where the world’s earliest human skull was found, where ancient water elephants used to roam the lakes and crabs grow to be the size of dogs. From the vast open plains of the Serengeti, to the snow-tipped peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro, this is a country of divergent landscapes and fantastical features. Pack your suitcases and join us as we uncover our Top 10 Lodges in Tanzania.
Our top lodges in Tanzania
The Serengeti – Singita Grumeti
A land of movement, of boundless plateaus, fertile with wildlife. The Serengeti is everything you imagine it to be – and more. There is an almost hallowed quality to these endless plains, which sees the annual pilgrimage of thousands of wildebeest and zebra in a stunning spectacle known as The Great Migration.
Where? Ensconced alongside the Serengeti’s Western Corridor in Northern Tanzania.
Why? The Serengeti is renowned for its rugged plains, diverse wildlife, and dramatic weather patterns. But in this wild and uncharted landscape is an oasis of luxury and decadence. Combining the surrounding natural beauty with modern comforts, Singita Grumeti is a leader in luxury accommodation.
Each of the Singita lodges offers an exciting, unique experience:
- Faru Faru Singita – Located right on the Grumenti riverbank, Faru Faru is cool and contemporary – this lodge boasts every luxury one can hope for, from viewing decks to spas and even a Colonial Trading Post!
- Sabora Singita– A flawless blend of antique opulence and modern comforts, the lodge is steeped in a kind of rugged romanticism that echoes back to the early days of exploration.
- Sasakwa Singita– Settled on the great Sasakwa Hill, Singita Sasakwa’s panoramic scope stretches over the moody plains offering up some of the most spectacular views imaginable.
- Singita Explore – This mobile camp takes you into the very heart of the Serengeti. With a maximum of twelve guests and only eight tents, this is a really personal safari experience.
- Serengeti House Singita– This exciting new property is located on the slopes of Sasakwa Hill in the expansive 350 000 acre Grumeti Reserves. Exclusive, homely and decidedly laid-back, this is perfect for a family getaway.
Read more about Singita Grumeti safari lodges here.
Klein’s Camp
Where? Klein’s Camp is situated in the northern Serengeti in Tanzania – right off the beaten tourist track. Its 10,000-hectare (24,800-acre) private wildlife concession is leased from Maasai landlords.
Why? This is a magical little getaway, situated deep in the Serengeti. With only ten cottages, crafted from local rock and thatch, with rich wooden floors and classic interiors, Klein’s is best described as rustic luxury.
Read more about Klein’s Camp here.
Serengeti Under Canvas
Where? Serengeti Under Canvas is a series of migratory camps within the Serengeti ecosystem.
Why? Follow the Great Migration, sleep under the stars like the explorers of old. This migratory camp gives you the chance to channel your inner Richard Burton and experience the Serengeti like never before.
Read more about Serengeti Under Canvas here.
Serengeti Migration Camp
Where? Serengeti Migration Camp is in the far north of the Serengeti.
Why? On your mark, get set and go…wild! This is the starting point for the migration – arguably one of Africa’s greatest spectacles. The camp offers a magnificent 360 degree views of the stage upon which the Migration is set to take place.
Find out more about Serengeti Migration Camp here.
Ngorongoro Crater National Park
Forget the Cradle of Humankind, Ngorongoro Crater National Park is the Cauldron of Life. Hailed as the world’s largest unbroken caldera, these lush, fertile plains were formed in the wake of a colossal volcanic eruption. Few places on the planet can boast such biodiversity. A permanent population of more than 30 000 animals inhabit the 260 km² crater, making this a quintessential Big 5 safari location.
Where? On the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater at the eastern edge of the Serengeti in northern Tanzania.
Why? Imagine waking up in an elegant baroque chateau, with brocade sofas, gilt mirrors, beaded chandeliers, and the like. Now imagine stepping out on your balcony and being greeted by a lion’s roar or a herd of zebra in the distance. This seamless integration of worlds and style is exactly what makes this lodge so fantastic.
Read more about Ngorongoro Crater Lodge here.
The Manor at Ngorongoro
Where? The Manor at Ngorongoro is adjacent to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area within the 1500 acre, Shangri-La Estate in northern Tanzania.
Why? Between the hulking ancient trees and lush, verdant vegetation, staying at The Manor is a divine experience. Whether you’re a safari junkie or just looking for an escape, you’ll find all your earthly desires well sated here.
Read more about The Manor at Ngorongoro here.
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge
Wouldn’t you want to stay in a place described by Ernest Hemmingway as “The loveliest in Africa”? Lake Manyara is an alkaline lake, found in Tanzania’s Rift Valley. This is a wild and exotic terrain, populated by candy-pink flamingos and tree-climbing lions. The thick, fantastical acacia woodland is juxtaposed against the grassy floodplain and its limitless expanse, making this one of the most breathtaking locations on the continent.
Where? Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is the only camp to be located in the Lake Manyara National Park. Despite its remote location in the Park it is easy to get to. Fly to Lake Manyara Airstrip or drive by 4 X 4 from Arusha or other lodges in Tanzania.
Why? This enchanting tree lodge offers the best that Lake Manyara has to offer. This is arguably the best place to spy Tanzania’s famous tree lions lazing about in the branches of the gigantic mahogany trees surrounding the lodge.
Find out more about Manyara Tree Lodge here.
Tarangire National Park
Since we’re on the subject of tree-climbing, we couldn’t wax poetic about Tanzania without mentioning Tarangire – where all you have to do is look up in the treetops to discover lions, leopards, a myriad of bird species and if you’re lucky, a thick, lounging python.
Where? Tarangire is about 100km from Arusha and on the edge of the Tarangire National Park. Its elevation and lush habitats are a contrast from the open plains of the Great Rift Valley below.
Why? Live out your Swiss Family Robinson fantasies in this tree-house paradise. The lodge’s suites are cradled in the arms of giant baobabs. The balcony overlooks a leafy sylvan expanse. And, when you’ve had enough of hanging about in the trees, there’s always the exciting walking safari…
Read more about Tarangire Treetops here.
Mahale National Park
In the depths of the Mahale National Park, awaits a unique and unforgettable safari experience. Home to troops of curious and characterful chimpanzee, the leafy-green slopes of the Mahale Mountains vibrate with life. A vast array of birds colour the trees which are also teeming with red-tailed and blue monkeys. This makes this mountainous Eden one of Tanzania’s most spectacular hideaways.
Where? Kangwena Beach on the edge of Lake Tanganyika, in the Mahale Mountains National Park, western Tanzania.
Why? Surreptitiously located between the turquoise Lake Tanganyika and green forested Mahale Mountains, we’ll forgive you if you assume you’ve taken a wrong turn and wandered into paradise. While you’re enjoying the view, trek up the mountain and make friends with some of the local chimpanzees.
Read more about Greystoke Mahale Safari Lodge here.
Book your safari holiday in the Best Lodges in Tanzania
Rhino Africa can tailor-make an African holiday of a lifetime to suit your budget, needs and style. One of our discerning and experienced consultants can give you all the inside information to ensure that you get the best experience and the best value for money possible. So contact us and let’s start planning! Africa awaits.
