Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge

Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge stands as a verdant oasis in the arid landscapes of Engaresero, nestled at the foot of the Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano. This eco-lodge is not just a place to stay; it’s a journey into sustainable living, cultural immersion, and wildlife interaction. Here, the morning is greeted with the sight of giraffes and zebras making their way to Lake Natron, providing guests with a natural spectacle that defines the lodge’s name.

The lodge embodies the spirit of eco-tourism, with practices rooted in environmental consciousness and community support. It’s built and decorated with local materials, reflecting the traditional Maasai architecture while offering modern comforts. The staff, local Maasai, welcome you not as guests but as family, sharing their way of life and ensuring your stay contributes positively to their community.

This lodge serves as a beacon of sustainable tourism, where part of the profits is channeled into local projects, and daily operations are guided by principles that reduce environmental impact. From solar panels powering the lodge to permaculture in its gardens, every aspect of Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge is about living in harmony with nature.

Location:

Located in Northern Tanzania, near the isolated village of Engaresero, Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge is an ideal base for exploring the natural and cultural wonders of the region. It’s close to Lake Natron, offering views of the majestic Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, and serves as a gateway to the renowned parks like Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Tarangire. The lodge is strategically placed on the road connecting these mythical parks, making it a perfect stopover or starting point for safari adventures.

Accommodation:

Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge offers a range of accommodations:

• Rooms:
  • Double, Triple, and King Tent: Each with private bathrooms featuring western-style amenities, including showers with hot water, and private verandas with views of the volcano.
  • Design: Made from local materials, these rooms blend traditional Maasai aesthetics with modern comfort, featuring solar fans and comfortable bedding.
• Campsite:
  • Security and Nature: A large, fenced grassy area for camping, where you can set up your tent or rent equipment on-site, ensuring safety with Maasai guards patrolling day and night.

All accommodations are designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing the guest experience, offering a unique blend of cultural authenticity and comfort.

Amenities:

The lodge is equipped with amenities that respect nature while enhancing your stay:

• Dining:
  • Restaurant: Open to the elements, it serves meals made from garden-fresh produce, local meats, and inspired by both Tanzanian and international cuisines. The chefs, Jane and Magret, are passionate about their work, offering dishes like “pilau” and “ugali.”
  • Self-Cooking: For those who enjoy cooking, there’s a hut with basic kitchen facilities.
• Sustainability Practices:
  • Water and Energy: Solar panels and water from the Engaresero River, with no chemical pool treatments, showcase the lodge’s commitment to the environment.
• Leisure:
  • Swimming Pool: Open 24/7, with water changed regularly to avoid chemicals, used afterwards for watering the grounds.
  • Activities: Biking around the area, car rental for further exploration, and cultural immersion with the Maasai.
• Connectivity:
  • Wi-Fi and Charging: Limited but available in the restaurant, encouraging guests to disconnect from technology and connect with nature.
• Community Engagement:
  • Local Involvement: From staff to sourcing materials, the lodge supports the local economy, with profits reinvested in community projects.