andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Once a gigantic volcano, the Ngorongoro Crater in northern Tanzania is now the largest intact caldera in the world. Some maintain that, before it erupted, it would have been higher than Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Today, long since having collapsed and eroded, it is an extensive highland area with the famous 600 m (2 000 ft) deep crater as its focal point and one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on earth. &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is situated right on the edge of the crater, offering unbeatable views of one of the natural wonders of the world.
Frequently described as Maasai meets Versailles, the sumptuous safari suites at &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge were inspired by the Maasai mud and stick manyatta (or homestead). Three separate and intimate camps total just 30 stilted suites (including a family suite). The lodge’s style is reminiscent of a bygone era, steeped in romance, adorned with graceful antiques, grand chandeliers and elegant African treasures. The bedroom, sitting room and en-suite bathroom boast floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the magnificent Crater below.
Why we like it here
Endangered black rhino are protected within its rim, giant tusked elephant wander the forests, large male lion stalk the grasslands and long-legged flamingo crowd the soda lakes.
Enjoy fantastic game drives on the Crater floor.
A personal butler discretely caters for each guest’s every need, bringing tea in bed, stoking fireplaces and drawing luxurious bubble baths.
The domed dining room, with its fireplace, crystal, silver and massive wooden platters, turns every meal into a special occasion.
Spectacular Crater views from everywhere in the suites, including the bathroom.
Experience Maasai and cattle living among the wildlife.
See wildflowers in bloom on the Crater floor from May to June.
Things to be aware of
The lodge is not fenced-off and guests are requested to be extremely vigilant at all times. Guests must be accompanied by &Beyond staff when walking around the lodge at night.
Travel to Tanzania is recommended for children 8 years or older.
Children 5 years and younger cannot participate in regular game drives.
Children aged 6 to 11 can participate in regular game drives at the lodge manager’s discretion.
2 of the rooms are accessible by wheelchair.
Wi-Fi in guest rooms only.
Drones are not permitted at &Beyond Reserves and Lodges.
The lodge is situated in a malaria area and necessary precautions should be taken.