Overview
In the lush embrace of Karatu’s Shangri-La Coffee Estate, The Manor at Ngorongoro offers a sanctuary of sophistication just beyond the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Perched at nearly 7,500 feet, this luxurious retreat gazes over rolling coffee plantations and the distant Mbulu highlands, with the iconic Ngorongoro Crater a mere hour and three-quarters away. Nearby, Lake Manyara National Park beckons with its flamingo-flecked shores and tree-climbing lions, while the crater itself teems with the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and the elusive black rhino. Here, fertile gardens bloom vibrantly, nourished by the highland’s cool mists, creating a verdant oasis that feels worlds apart yet deeply connected to Tanzania’s wild soul.
The Manor’s Cape Dutch-inspired architecture evokes a bygone era of Afro-European grandeur, with whitewashed gables and wooden beams framing sumptuous interiors. Picture yourself sinking into a leather sofa by a roaring fireplace, the aroma of freshly brewed estate coffee lingering in the air, or dining on gourmet cuisine under the stars on an open veranda. This is a place where luxury feels effortless, blending old-world charm with modern comforts. Accessible by a scenic four-hour drive from Arusha or a quick flight to Lake Manyara Airstrip followed by a 40-minute transfer, The Manor is your gateway to Northern Tanzania’s treasures, offering both adventure and serenity for the discerning traveler.
Facilities & Features
Accommodation: 18 luxurious Manor Cottage Suites, each with private entrances, sun terraces, and en-suite bathrooms featuring claw-footed baths and rainfall showers, plus a family-friendly Stable Cottage with three bedrooms.
Amenities: Elegant dining room and open veranda for farm-to-fork meals, a cozy lounge with a grand fireplace, a bar, a billiards room, a TV/cinema room, a sparkling swimming pool, a spa, and Wi-Fi in the main house. Stables for horseback adventures and lush gardens for tranquil strolls.
Sustainability: Solar power supports eco-conscious operations, and fresh produce is sourced from local communities and the estate’s own gardens.
Highlights
Prime Location: Nestled on a 1,500-acre coffee estate, just a short drive from the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara National Park, offering easy access to world-class safari adventures.
Wildlife Wonders: Spot the Big Five in the Ngorongoro Crater, marvel at flamingos and tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara, or glimpse nocturnal leopards en route to the crater with expert guides.
Exclusive Experiences: Embark on private game drives, horseback rides through the highlands, or guided coffee estate tours to uncover the secrets of Tanzania’s famed Arabica beans.
Cultural Immersion: Visit local Maasai villages or explore the ancient fossils of Olduvai Gorge, connecting with Tanzania’s rich heritage.
Luxurious Comforts: Unwind in opulent suites with double-sided fireplaces, indulge in gourmet dining, or relax with a spa treatment amidst fragrant gardens.
Eco-Conscious Elegance: Enjoy sustainable luxury with solar-powered amenities and meals crafted from locally sourced, estate-grown ingredients.