Best luxury Ngorongoro Crater Lodges and Camps.
Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania is one of the most spectacular places on Earth, often called the eighth wonder of the world. This vast, wildlife-filled caldera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and experiencing its natural beauty demands an equally exceptional place to stay.
Due to the strict conservation rules, overnight stays are not allowed on the crater floor itself, so the best luxury accommodations are located along the crater rim or in the beautiful surrounding Ngorongoro Highlands. These lodges and camps offer not just stunning views and closeness for early morning game drives, but also world-class service, fine dining and more.
The iconic crater rim lodges.
For many luxury travelers, staying right on the crater rim is the ultimate goal, as it provides instant breathtaking views of the caldera floor and the easiest, quickest access for morning game drives down into the wildlife haven.
- andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge.
This is often called one of the most luxurious hotels in the world; this lodge is known for its dramatic, opulent design. The style is often described as “Maasai meets Versailles,” with high, thatched roofs, velvet sofas and a dedicated butler for every suite. It’s located right on the edge, the lodge offers spectacular views from every window and private deck, making it an experience of pure.
- Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge.
This is classic and lodged and built into the stone and contours of the crater rim. Designed to look almost hidden beneath a natural layer of riverine stone and creeping vines, it offers a more understated luxury and sense of place. Its location is excellent, being one of the closest to the main descent road into the crater, ensuring you are among the first vehicles in the morning.
- Ngorongoro Lions Paw Camp.
This is located on the quiet, eastern side of the crater rim, this camp offers an intimate tented experience while still providing supreme luxury. Its selling point is its closeness to the Lemale gate, allowing guests a much earlier start to their game drive than most of the other lodges. The large tents are beautifully appointed, with en-suite bathrooms and wood-burning stoves to combat the chilly highland air.
- Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp.
This is another highly rated luxury tented camp situated close to one of the crater’s descent points. The lodge provides the authentic feel of being under canvas with all the comforts of a five-star hotel. The camp’s small size ensures perfect service, high quality, and spacious tents with private viewing decks.
- Manor at Ngorongoro.
This is found on a coffee estate just outside the main conservation area; the Manor offers a taste of Cape Dutch colonial elegance. It has exquisite gardens and luxurious cottages with private fireplaces, perfect for a cozy retreat.
- Highlands by Asilia Africa.
This lodge offers an intimate experience that is situated high on the slopes of the Olmoti volcano, northeast of the main crater. Accommodation is in geodesic dome suites with glass walls offering panoramic views. The remote location and unique design make it the best for adventurous luxury travelers looking for exclusivity and access to guided walks in the area.
- Gibb’s Farm.
This is one of the oldest and most respected lodges in the area; Gibb’s Farm is set on a working coffee plantation and farm. It offers a warm, homestyle luxury with a focus on fresh, organic food right at the lodge.
- Lemala Ngorongoro camp.
This is located in a beautiful acacia forest on the rim, this seasonal camp combines an excellent location with the classic luxury tented safari feel. It’s renowned for its warm service and the large, comfortable, heated tents, which are best for families looking for an authentic, comfortable, high-end camp.
- Ngorongoro Lodge, a Melia Collection.
This is located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this lodge offers a refined, contemporary luxury experience. It has stunning views, elegant designs that mix with the African landscape and excellent facilities, making it a great choice for travelers who prefer modern hotel amenities without sacrificing the incredible Tanzania safari setting.
- Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge.
This is located outside the main gate in the Karatu area, this all-inclusive lodge is a sprawling retreat set on 50 acres of land. It offers luxury log cabins with fireplaces and large en-suite facilities. It serves as a beautiful base for exploring the crater, offering excellent comfort and a serene atmosphere away from the immediate crater crowds.
