Destination: Tanzania
Ndutu Under Canvas
- byGeetika Malhotra
- - April 19, 2023
Overview About Ndutu Under Canvas
Located between the center and south of the Serengeti, Ndutu Under Canvas offers a prime vantage point to witness the Great Migration from December to March. This luxury mobile camp ensures proximity to the heart of the migration spectacle, allowing guests to explore remote areas and enjoy breathtaking settings with abundant resident wildlife. With just ten exclusive tents, the camp provides an intimate and private safari experience.
Facilities and other details about Ndutu Under Canvas
- Dining: Enjoy meals and complimentary welcome drink in a dedicated dining tent or lounge tent. Evenings are marked by a campfire, where guests can unwind with appetizers and drinks while soaking in the day’s end.
- Breakfast in the Bush: Start your day with a bush breakfast, experiencing the African wilderness in its full splendor. Picnic lunches can be arranged for day-long safaris.
- Sundowners: Conclude your day with cocktails and appetizers at a scenic sundowner spot.
- Campfire: Enjoy the warmth and camaraderie of a campfire each evening, perfect for relaxing and sharing stories under the stars.
- Swimming pool: Each camp features an inviting swimming pool, offering a refreshing retreat with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Power: Benefit from round-the-clock electricity for your comfort and convenience.
- Additional facilities: Free parking, 24*7 security.
Additional Information:
- Open from December to March.
- Families are welcome, with special arrangements available for children.
- Check-in at 12:00 PM and check-out by 10:00 AM.
- Ndutu Under Canvas emphasizes minimal environmental impact, operating with solar panels and bucket showers. The camp’s mobile infrastructure allows it to be packed up and relocated with minimal footprint, preserving the pristine wilderness.
- Ndutu has opted out of Wi-Fi and air conditioning to offer guests a genuinely authentic safari experience, allowing them to fully connect with the natural surroundings.
Services
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: For a unique perspective, take a hot-air balloon ride (available December to March) and enjoy stunning aerial views of the migration. Please note they are available at an extra charge and are subject to weather conditions. The duration of the flight ranges from 50 to 90 minutes, depending on the weather. A bush breakfast is served upon landing.
- Game Drives: Explore the Serengeti’s rich wildlife, including wildebeest, zebras, and more.
- Walking Safaris: Discover the Ngorongoro Crater and Oldupai Gorge with guided walking safaris.
What can be expected:
- Front-row seats to migration: This mobile camp offers an unparalleled location for witnessing the awe-inspiring Great Migration from December to March.
- Excellent game viewings: Tracking the Great Migration, Ndutu Under Canvas Camp ensures outstanding views of wildebeest, zebras, and other wildlife as they traverse the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.
- More than wildlife: Staying at Ndutu also allows you to explore two of Tanzania’s most captivating and well-known sites: the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater and the historic Oldupai Gorge.
- Big 5 sightings: Witness the majestic Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—in their natural habitat for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
- Bird Watching: Enjoy exceptional bird watching with a variety of colorful and exotic species inhabiting the region’s diverse landscapes.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with the local Maasai communities and learn about their way of life.
Seasonal Weather:
- Wet season: Temperatures vary between 15°C and 26°C (59°F and 79°F), with the wet season being the warmest.
Room type
- The camp features ten spacious tents, including a family tent with two interconnected rooms.
- Each tent (2-3 guests) provides a comfortable and private retreat with options for either double or twin beds, and a bathroom equipped with a bucket shower.
- Family tent (4 guests) accommodates up to 4 guests with two interconnected rooms, a shared bathroom, and a private porch.
- Each room has room service, mosquito nets, and mineral water.
Approximate Price range
- From $470 per person sharing, including all meals, selected beverages, and various safari activities.
Location and How to reach
- By Air: Several airstrips in the Serengeti serve scheduled flights from Arusha, with approximately 50-minute flights. Charter flights are also available and connect to Zanzibar and other national parks.
- By Road: Depending on the camp’s location during the migration, the drive from Arusha takes approximately 5-10 hours.
Why choose Ndutu Under Canvas
Ndutu Under Canvas offers an unparalleled safari experience that immerses you in the heart of Serengeti’s Great Migration. This luxurious mobile camp offers an exclusive vantage point to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of wildebeest, zebra, and other wildlife as they traverse Tanzania’s iconic landscapes.
With just ten tents, including a spacious family option, you’ll enjoy intimate and comfortable accommodation amidst the untamed beauty of the Serengeti.
Delight in unique experiences like hot-air balloon safaris, bush dining, and guided walks to the Ngorongoro Crater and Oldupai Gorge.
Ndutu’s commitment to minimal environmental impact ensures an authentic adventure, where you can disconnect from modern distractions and fully connect with nature.
Kitela Lodge
- byGeetika Malhotra
- - April 19, 2023
Overview About Kitela Lodge
Kitela Lodge is a charming, exclusive lodge located in the Karatu area of Northern Tanzania, overlooking the Ngorongoro Crater’s eastern wall. Nestled amidst a coffee plantation and lush gardens, the lodge offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Facilities and other details about Kitela Lodge
- Main Lodge: A two-story farmhouse-style building with a central courtyard, comfortable lounge areas, a cozy bar, and a dining area.
- Swimming Pool: Heated and located in front of the main building, surrounded by sun loungers for relaxation.
- Gardens: Beautiful, well-maintained gardens perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Massages: After an exciting day on a game drive, treat yourself to a soothing and revitalizing massage. Choose from a 90-minute full-body massage, a head massage, or opt for a manicure or pedicure.
- Wi-Fi: Available in public areas for guests.
- Power: Available throughout the day.
- Additional facilities: Airport shuttle, laundry service, free parking
Additional Information:
- Guests can check in at 12:00 and check out by 10:00.
- Children of all ages are welcome.
- Open all year round.
- Eco-friendly.
- Facilities are available for travellers with special needs.
Services:
- Game Drives: Guided excursions into the nearby Ngorongoro Crater. It’s a highlight for guests, offering the chance to see diverse wildlife in one of Africa’s most famous conservation areas.
- Guided Walks: Guided tours are available around the coffee plantation and surrounding areas with knowledgeable guides.
- Sundowner: In a stunning setting, savor an appetizer and cocktail as you unwind at the end of the day.
What can be expected:
- Tranquil environment: Guests can expect a blend of privacy and sociability, with both secluded spots for quiet time and communal areas for mingling. The lodge prides itself on its tranquil environment, enhanced by its scenic location and thoughtfully designed spaces.
- Cultural Visits: Experience a unique opportunity to visit the Wahadzabe and Wadatoga tribes living around Lake Eyasi, as well as the Wairaqw tribes.
Seasonal Weather:
- Dry Season (June to October): Daytime temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Nights can be cooler, dropping to around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The weather is generally dry and clear, with minimal rainfall.
- Wet Season (November to May): Daytime temperatures usually range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with nighttime temperatures between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This period includes intermittent rainfall, with heavier showers occurring from March to May, and increased humidity.
Room type
- 20 spacious cottages styled like old-colonial farmhouses, each with an en-suite bathroom, mosquito nets, and serene garden views.
- Suite rooms can accommodate 2-3 guests and interconnected rooms can have 4-5 guests.
- All are equipped with modern amenities while maintaining a rustic charm, providing comfort amidst nature.
Approximate Price range
Rooms at Kitela Lodge in Karatu, Tanzania are available starting at $300 per night.
Location and How to reach
Kitela Lodge is perched on a valley top, offering views of a coffee plantation on the eastern side of the Ngorongoro Crater and a stunning waterfall.
- By Air: Scheduled and charter flights operate daily between Arusha and Manyara Airstrip, with a flight duration of approximately 25 minutes. Connections are available to and from Serengeti and Zanzibar.
- By Road: Kitela Lodge is 151 km from Arusha, about a 2-hour and 30-minute drive.
Take the A104 road to Makuyuni, then turn right onto B144 heading towards Ngorongoro. The drive is an easy, scenic 2-hour journey on a tarmac road.
Why choose Kitela Lodge
Kitela Lodge boasts a stunning location with breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. The camp offers an exclusive atmosphere with only 20 cottages, providing a private and intimate experience for guests. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in local Maasai culture through guided tours and village visits. Its proximity to the Ngorongoro Crater makes it a convenient and ideal base for exploring this remarkable area.
Tloma Safari Lodge – Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania
- byGeetika Malhotra
- - April 19, 2023
Tloma Lodge has been built on the foothills of the highlands of Ngorongoro, a small and exclusive lodge with 24 small cottages built in colonial style and 12 rooms overlooking the garden in the main building. The excellent location of Tloma on the top of a valley offers fantastic views over a coffee plantation and the walls of the Ngorongoro cráter which can be enjoyed from the private terraces of the rooms.
The gardens, full of flowers and bushes, are particularly attractive, although guests find it difficult to choose between a walk around the gardens or relax around the heated pool.
Ngorongoro Farm House
- byGeetika Malhotra
- - April 19, 2023
Overview About Ngorongoro Farm House
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Ngorongoro Highlands, Ngorongoro Farm House is a charming and exclusive retreat built on a sprawling 500-acre coffee plantation. This luxurious lodge offers an authentic Tanzanian experience, seamlessly blending comfort with the rustic charm of colonial-era farms. It’s an ideal stop-off during a safari on the Northern Circuit of Tanzania, offering convenient access to the Ngorongoro Crater and a variety of unique excursions.
Facilities and other details about Ngorongoro Farm House
- Dining: Ngorongoro Farm House is committed to sustainability and farm-to-table dining.
- The restaurant serves market-style dishes made with fresh, organic produce grown on the farm.
- Guests can enjoy meals in the restaurant, on the terrace with views of the Oldeani Volcano, or in a private setting.
- A complimentary breakfast and welcome drink are included, with options for special diets available.
- Delicious picnic lunches are prepared for you to enjoy during your full-day safari.
- Spa and Wellness: After a day of exploration, guests can indulge in a range of rejuvenating massages, including full-body, head massages, manicures, and pedicures.
- Swimming Pool: The outdoor swimming pool offers a refreshing escape with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation and soaking in the beauty of the Ngorongoro Highlands.
- Souvenir Shop: Explore the on-site souvenir shop, offering unique mementos and local crafts to remember your stay.
- Wi-Fi Service: Stay connected with our complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your stay.
- Payment: We accept all major credit cards for a seamless payment experience.
- Power: Enjoy uninterrupted power with our 24-hour electricity service. The Lodge is powered by environmentally friendly electricity generated through solar panels, with a backup generator in place for added reliability.
- Accessibility: The lodge is wheelchair accessible and suitable for guests with special needs. For specific requirements, it’s recommended to inquire in advance.
- Additional facilities: Free parking, laundry service, banquet room, BBQ facilities, secured parking.
Additional Information:
- Open year-round.
- Ngorongoro Farm House welcomes families with children. The lodge offers various room configurations, including interconnected rooms for families.
- Check-in is at 12:00 PM, and check-out is at 10:00 AM.
- Eco-friendly
Services
- Farm and Coffee Plantation Walk: Take a guided tour of the farm and coffee plantation to learn about the organic farming practices and the journey of coffee from plant to cup. This walk is a relaxing way to enjoy the scenic surroundings and immerse yourself in the farm’s daily activities.
- Cultural Visits: Engage with local communities through organized cultural visits. Experience the rich heritage of the area and connect with the people who call this region home.
- Sundowners and Al Fresco Dining: End your day with a sundowner in the beautiful landscape, accompanied by cocktails and appetizers. Dinner can also be served on the terrace deck, providing a delightful al fresco dining experience under the African sky.
- Walking safaris: Enjoy activities like trekking safaris to the volcano or embarking on excursions to Lake Eyasi in the Rift Valley, where the Hadzabe tribe still calls home.
- Guided walks in the Ngorongoro Conservation area: The lodge offers guided walks providing an immersive experience to explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
What can be expected:
- Wildlife and surroundings: The area is home to a diverse range of animals, including elephants, lions, zebras, and a variety of bird species. The lodge’s proximity to the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s most renowned natural wonders, makes it an excellent base for exploring the wildlife and landscapes of Northern Tanzania.
- Cultural encounters: You also have the incredible opportunity to visit the Hazabe and Datoga tribes in the Lake Eyasi region.
Seasonal Weather:
Guests visiting the lodge can expect an average temperature of around 20ºC, providing a comfortable climate year-round. The temperatures typically range between 10ºC and 30ºC, so it’s wise to pack for varying conditions.
- Dry season: The dry season runs from June to October, offering clear skies and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and safaris.
- Wet season: Conversely, the wet season spans from November to May, when the area experiences occasional showers, refreshing the landscape and bringing lush greenery.
Whether in the dry or wet season, the lodge provides a welcoming atmosphere with weather suiting various preferences.
Room type
- Chalet-Style Rooms: The lodge features 52 chalet-type rooms, each situated at ground level with private terraces or balconies overlooking lush gardens or the expansive coffee plantation.
- The Standard Room comfortably accommodates 2 to 3 guests, offering a cozy and intimate stay.
- The Interconnected Rooms are ideal for groups, with the ability to host 3 to 5 guests, providing both space and privacy.
- The Suite Room is designed for two guests, perfect for a luxurious and relaxing experience.
- The Quadruple Room is tailored for families or small groups, with ample space for up to 4 guests.
- The family suite features two separate rooms connected by an adjoining door.
- All rooms are designed with ample space and comfort in mind, featuring hand-plaited thatched rooftops, colonial interiors, luxury beddings, en-suite bathrooms with showers, and modern amenities such as mosquito nets, tea and coffee-making facilities, and safes.
