Overview
Tucked away on the serene outskirts of Karatu town, Bougainvillea Safari Lodge offers a tranquil haven amidst Tanzania’s iconic Northern Safari Circuit. Perfectly positioned halfway between the wildlife-rich Lake Manyara National Park and the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, this lodge is a gateway to some of East Africa’s most breathtaking natural wonders. The surrounding landscape, dotted with coffee plantations and rolling hills, invites you to pause and soak in the beauty of the Crater Highlands, where vibrant birdlife and distant elephant trumpets fill the air.
The lodge itself exudes a warm, homey charm, blending Tanzanian hospitality with thoughtful comforts. Its 32 cottages are nestled within lush, tropical gardens, creating a peaceful oasis for travelers seeking respite from the dusty safari trails. Whether you’re savoring a meal crafted from fresh, local ingredients or lounging by the sparkling pool, the atmosphere is one of understated elegance and genuine care. Bougainvillea is locally owned, and the staff’s pride in their heritage shines through in every interaction, making your stay feel like a homecoming.
Reaching Bougainvillea is a breeze—fly into Arusha Airport (approximately 108 km away) and enjoy a scenic two-hour drive through Tanzania’s vibrant countryside. Alternatively, a road transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport offers a longer but equally captivating journey. However you arrive, the lodge’s proximity to Ngorongoro’s Lodoare Gate (just 13 km) and Lake Manyara (20 km) ensures your safari adventures are always within reach.
Facilities & Features
Accommodation: 32 spacious cottages, including family suites and interconnected rooms, each featuring mosquito-netted king or twin beds, en-suite bathrooms with showers, cozy fireplaces, and private verandas overlooking tropical gardens.
Amenities: A charming restaurant serving fresh, country-style cuisine with local flavors; a cozy lounge and bar for evening relaxation; a refreshing outdoor swimming pool; a gift shop stocked with local crafts; and a small internet café for staying connected.
Eco Features: Solar-powered lighting in select areas and a commitment to supporting local communities through employment and sourcing.
Highlights
Prime Location: Just 15 minutes from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area gate and a short drive from Lake Manyara, offering easy access to Tanzania’s premier wildlife destinations.
Abundant Wildlife: Spot elephants, buffalo, and the Big Five in Ngorongoro Crater, or marvel at tree-climbing lions and flamingo flocks in Lake Manyara National Park.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Discover over 1,200 bird species, from colorful lilac-breasted rollers to comical hornbills, right from the lodge’s gardens or nearby trails.
Cultural Excursions: Immerse yourself in local life with guided visits to Iraqw, Hadzabe, or Datoga villages, or explore the vibrant markets of Karatu town.
Unique Experiences: Enjoy guided coffee plantation tours, countryside walks, or a soothing massage by the pool after a day of safari thrills.
Warm Hospitality: Experience the legendary warmth of Tanzanian staff, led by executive chef Reggie Bayo, whose fresh, flavorful dishes are a highlight of every stay.
