Overview
In the heart of Tanzania’s verdant Karatu region, The Retreat at Ngorongoro emerges as an oasis of luxury amid the untamed beauty of the Ngorongoro Highlands. Set within 30 acres of meticulously tended gardens, this exclusive lodge is a stone’s throw from the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with the Big Five and vibrant ecosystems. The surrounding landscape, dotted with coffee plantations and rolling hills, offers breathtaking views of the crater’s rim and the distant shimmer of Lake Eyasi, inviting guests to immerse themselves in nature’s grandeur.
The Retreat blends sophisticated elegance with eco-conscious design, creating an atmosphere of refined comfort that feels both indulgent and harmonious with its surroundings. Each moment here is infused with the sights and sounds of the wild—think birdsong at dawn, the rustle of leaves, and the distant call of a hyena under a starlit sky. Accessible via a scenic 3.5-hour drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport or a swift 20-minute transfer from Lake Manyara Airport, The Retreat is a gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, perfectly positioned for adventures into Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park, and beyond.
Facilities & Features
The Retreat at Ngorongoro offers 28 spacious cottages, each a private sanctuary spanning 100 square meters with chic, contemporary interiors. Every cottage features a bedroom, en-suite bathroom, dressing area, and a private deck overlooking lush forest vistas, complete with wildlife-inspired artwork and a cozy fireplace. The central lodge, a majestic hub of activity, houses a gourmet restaurant showcasing farm-to-table cuisine, a cozy bar, and a lounge with plush sofas arranged around a crackling fire. Guests can unwind by the heated swimming pool, stay connected with Wi-Fi in communal areas, or rejuvenate at the soon-to-open spa (July 2025). Eco-friendly touches like solar power and locally sourced materials underscore the lodge’s commitment to sustainability.
Highlights
Prime Location: Just an hour’s drive from the Ngorongoro Crater, offering easy access to one of Africa’s densest wildlife populations, including black rhinos and lions.
Wildlife Encounters: Spot elephants, buffalo, and hyenas in the adjacent Ngorongoro Forest, or venture to Lake Manyara for flamingos and tree-climbing lions.
Exclusive Excursions: Embark on guided game drives, cultural visits to local Maasai villages, or scenic walks through coffee plantations and waterfalls.
Luxurious Comfort: Spacious cottages with private decks and fireplaces provide a perfect blend of elegance and wilderness immersion.
Eco-Luxury: Solar-powered facilities and farm-fresh dining reflect a dedication to sustainable, high-end hospitality.
Wellness & Serenity: A forthcoming spa and serene jogging trails offer relaxation amid Tanzania’s captivating landscapes.
