Ngorongoro Crater Lodge Where Maasai meets Versailles

Imagine entering Ngorongoro Crater Lodge for the first time? Every room screams, “I’m fabulous!” Not to be too dramatic, but when you wake up in an elegant Baroque style château with teak panelling, Victorian furnishings, grand chandeliers and champagne in the middle of Africa—it’s not unusual to wonder where you are? (Spoiler: It’s not King’s Landing).

When your eyes adjust to the light, you’ll realise these aren’t just any views—Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is known as the game lodge at the top of the world. It rests on the rim of an ancient crater, not ruled by a king but by the megafauna (the Big Five) that have reigned supreme for more than three million years.

As the morning mist envelops the crater, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a mythical world—mysterious, eerie, and often chilly (who said winter is coming). Wrap up warmly during the day and by night, cosy up by the fire and savour the finest cuisine and hospitality Tanzania has to offer.

If this delightfully peculiar lodge has yet to win you over, there’s a more practical reason to consider. Crater Lodge is the closest camp to the descent point. It offers a front-row position, where your morning coffee is the only thing between you and the view.

You’ll emerge from Crater Lodge, a whole new person, floating on clouds (although a little heavier) and looking down on the khaki-clad masses who missed out on this unique experience.

Stuff we love

Where Maasai meets Versailles

  • Enjoying a unique banquet on the crater floor, away from the crowds (beats a picnic).
  • Sundowners with crater views that’ll have you pinching yourself (no, you’re not dreaming).
  • Food with a side of ‘wow’ and a chilled bottle of french champagne (obviously).

Crater Lodge in pictures

Lodge activities

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Game Drive
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Birdwatching
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Bush Walk
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Cultural excursion
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Massage

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