Ngorongoro Forest Tented Lodge is set in the mountains near Karatu and offers a more informal and affordable stay than the lodges at the crater rim. Its valley-view rooms, each about 258 square feet, come as Single, Standard Double, Triple and Family Tent layouts, so the lodge can host solo travellers, couples and families. Rooms include bathrobes, a rainfall shower, a minibar, free bottled water, a desk and a safe, and some can be connected on request. The page describes the property as a three-class lodge, and the tented-style design brings you close to the setting.
Facilities
A free continental breakfast is served from very early to mid-morning, which is helpful before a crater departure. There is a restaurant, a coffee shop and a bar, with private dining and picnics available for couples. An outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace with a firepit and barbecue grills, a picnic area, a playground and a library round out the offer. Bicycles can be rented, and there are hiking and biking trails and eco-tours. No spa is listed.
Location
The lodge is about half an hour by road from Lake Manyara National Park and a little under an hour from the shores of Lake Manyara, with Karatu town and several restaurants within a short drive. Lake Manyara Airport is around thirty minutes away, and an airport shuttle is available on request for a per-vehicle fee. Karatu is the common stop for the crater, so this lodge gives you a good head start on the morning drive.
Who it suits
Families, budget-conscious couples and groups of friends who want a simple, characterful lodge near the crater will like it. The trails and bicycles appeal to active travellers who want a walk or ride after a day in a vehicle. The playground and family tents help parents of young children.
Good to know
Guests must complete an online registration before arrival and contact the lodge in advance for check-in arrangements, and arrivals after mid-afternoon require advance notice. Check-in starts in the morning and check-out is before ten. Cribs are not available, and babysitting and children's activities carry a surcharge. Card payments carry a surcharge, so bring cash as well. There is no lift, and extra-person charges may apply. Free cancellation applies to selected rates. It is a good-value base for the crater that keeps costs down without sacrificing atmosphere.
A few more tips
Pack a warm layer, since nights in the hills can be cool, and bring a torch for walking between buildings after dark. If you plan to use the trails or rent a bicycle, ask the staff about the safest routes and the best time of day. Because card payments carry a surcharge, bring enough cash for extras, and make sure you complete the online registration before you travel.
Why stay here
- ✓Outdoor pool
- ✓Rooftop terrace with firepit
- ✓Restaurant and bar
- ✓Coffee shop
- ✓Free continental breakfast
- ✓Bicycle rentals and trails
- ✓Playground and library
- ✓Free parking
Good questions
Is the lodge close to the crater?+
It is in the Karatu hills, a common overnight stop. Ask the lodge for the drive time to the crater gate.
Is breakfast included?+
A free continental breakfast is served every morning.
Do I need to register before arrival?+
Yes. Guests complete an online registration and contact the lodge in advance for check-in details.
