Lemala Ngorongoro

Tucked away near the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, Lemala Ngorongoro offers an intimate and exclusive safari experience, where the hustle of typical tourist routes fades into the tranquility of an ancient acacia forest. Here, the camp’s design and ethos are all about creating a home away from home, surrounded by one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions. The communal areas, with their large, inviting sofas, a cozy book corner, and the panoramic views, encourage guests to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Lemala Ngorongoro isn’t just about the luxury of its setting; it’s about providing an authentic safari experience with the advantage of being close to the less-traveled Lemala crater access road. This strategic placement means you’re among the first to descend into the crater each morning, offering a golden opportunity for photography and wildlife viewing in peace, before the crowds arrive.

The camp fosters a communal dining experience, where you can share meals and stories with a nature expert, enhancing your understanding of the Ngorongoro ecosystem. Beyond the game drives, which are a highlight due to the camp’s location, there are guided walks with Maasai warriors, offering a different perspective of the crater rim’s flora and fauna. Whether you’re here with family, friends, or as a solo traveler, Lemala Ngorongoro promises an adventure filled with the thrill of encountering the Big 5 in one of East Africa’s premier reserves.

Location:

Situated close to the eastern side of the Ngorongoro Crater, Lemala Ngorongoro benefits from its proximity to the quieter Lemala access road. This location is not just about ease of access to the crater floor but also about enjoying the serene beauty of the surrounding acacia forest. The nearest airstrip, Manyara, is approximately a 2-hour drive away, ensuring that even the journey to this retreat is part of your safari experience. The camp’s location allows for early morning game drives, capitalizing on the best light for photography and the most active periods for wildlife.

Accommodation:

Lemala Ngorongoro consists of 10 spacious tents, each designed for comfort and privacy within the natural setting:

• Tent Layout: Each tent is thoughtfully placed to ensure privacy while minimizing environmental impact. They come equipped with:
  • Beds: Two queen-size beds, with the option for triples on request.
  • Comfort: Warm duvets, hot water bottles, and gas heaters for chilly nights, ensuring a cozy sleep.
  • Bathroom: Spacious en-suite with a dressing area, flush toilet, and a large safari-style shower.
• Special Tent: One tent features two bedrooms, perfect for families or groups traveling together.
• Interior: The mess tent is adorned with grand sofas, antique wood furniture, and bookshelves, creating a homely atmosphere.

Amenities:

The amenities at Lemala Ngorongoro are tailored to enhance your safari experience:

• Dining: Communal meals are served in the beautifully furnished mess tent, with options for hearty dinners under the chandeliers or around the campfire.
• Sundowners: Gather around the campfire for evening drinks, sharing the day’s adventures.
• Connectivity: Complimentary internet in the lounge and bar areas keeps you connected.
• Power: 24-hour solar electricity, with a backup generator, ensures you’re never in the dark, with charging facilities available.
• Laundry: Limited complimentary laundry services add convenience.
• Activities:
  • Game Drives: Early and late drives into the crater for optimal wildlife viewing.
  • Bush Walks: Explore the crater rim or nearby Ol Moti and Empakaai Craters with Maasai guides.
• Transportation: Game drives are facilitated by 4×4 vehicles, promising comfort and safety as you traverse the rugged terrain.
• Drinks: Complimentary drinks are served, except for premium options, ensuring your evenings are as enjoyable as your days.