Kisima Ngeda

Tucked away in a fever tree forest with a backdrop of a rocky hill, Kisima Ngeda offers a serene escape on the shores of the seasonal Lake Eyasi. This intimate camp, with its eight palm-roofed tented chalets, invites guests to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Alipi escarpment’s sweeping vistas. Here, the day’s changing hues are part of the experience, making sundowners on tent decks a daily ritual, while the communal bar, lounge, and dining room serve as the heart of social interaction, where local chefs prepare wholesome meals with a view of the lake.

At Kisima Ngeda, the environment is not just a backdrop but a living part of your stay. As night falls, the traditional Tanganyika boiler heats water for your shower, and the sounds of Nightjars and the forest lull you to sleep. This camp is nestled in the ancestral lands of the Hadza and Datoga people, offering a unique opportunity to engage with some of the world’s last hunter-gatherer and pastoralist communities, sharing in their art, lifestyle, and cuisine.

Location:

Kisima Ngeda Camp is located in Mangola, in Mikocheni Village near Lake Eyasi, with GPS coordinates at Latitude -3.4744807 and Longitude 35.3493085. This strategic placement not only offers stunning views over the lake but also places you at the doorstep of Hadza country, allowing for cultural immersion into one of Africa’s most traditional societies. The camp is roughly 71 km from Lake Manyara Airport, with an airport shuttle service available for convenience.

Accommodation:

Kisima Ngeda features:

• Tented Chalets: Eight in number, these chalets are:
  • Design: Constructed from local materials for minimal environmental impact, with palm-thatch roofs blending into the forest.
  • Interiors: Each chalet includes a king-sized bed, a comfortable armchair, and decor that honors the local indigenous culture with brass coil lampshades and metal-framed mirrors.
  • Bathroom: An en-suite with a walk-in shower and separate toilet, where water is heated by burning palm fronds in a Tanganyika boiler.
• Living Space: Each chalet has a furnished veranda on wooden decks, providing a private space to enjoy the lake views or read in peace.

Amenities:

The amenities at Kisima Ngeda are designed to deepen your connection with the environment and culture:

• Dining:
  • Cuisine: Meals are prepared from organic, local, seasonal produce, with chefs from the community ensuring authenticity and high standards.
  • Dining Experience: Options for breakfast include continental or Full English/Irish with unique touches like champagne and pancakes. Packed lunches are available for day trips.
• Social Areas:
  • Bar & Lounge: A cozy space with wooden floors and palm-thatch roofs, perfect for pre-dinner relaxation.
  • Dining Room: Offers expansive lake views, enhancing your dining experience.
• Leisure:
  • Pool: Hidden under the rocky ridge, it’s a cool retreat with recliners and parasols on a wooden deck.
  • Garden: For relaxation and enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Cultural and Adventure Activities:
  • Hadza Tours: Guided explorations into Hadza culture, living, hunting, and gathering practices.
  • Fly Camping: An immersive experience with the Hadza and Datoga, offering a deep dive into their way of life.
• Additional Services: 24-hour front desk, picnic areas, and a public bath for relaxation.