The Plantation Lodge is set in wonderful coffee plantations between the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara which makes it the perfect place from which to explore this area of northern Tanzania and then retreat back to the lodge and relax in the gardens.
Spacious and airy rooms
Beautiful gardens and lawns
Dine in the wine cellar
Relax by the swimming pool
Plantation Lodge is located just outside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and surrounded by coffee plantations, giving its guests both the excitement of a safari and the comfort of a charming lodge.
Each of the 25 rooms has their own individual style, all designed to give maximum relaxation after a dusty day out in the bush. Each room has its own veranda and bathroom and has been specifically designed using local African-safari antiques, arts and crafts. The rooms are in groups set amongst the pretty gardens and there are plenty of lounges and areas to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings when not out on safari.
Plantation Lodge also offers delicious meals with menu choices ranging from European specialities to exotic dishes prepared in the Swahili kitchen. Only the freshest ingredients are used which are taken from the lodge’s own vegetable garden. Together with the meal guests also have the choice of a selection of fine South African wines from the lodge's wine cellar.
Daily safaris begin from the Plantation Lodge heading either west, crossing the legendary Maasai territory of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, towards the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater or east, through the rolling hills of the Ngorongoro Highlands, to Lake Manyara. Guests can also enjoy a tour of the coffee plantations, and visits to the colourful market town of Karatu to get a flavour of local life.
There is a lovely swimming pool here, and the verdant gardens provide home to an array of pretty birdlife.
When to visit
A private dinner in the glass-ceilinged wine cellar is a real treat!
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Enquire NowPlantation Lodge is a 10-minute drive north of the market town of Karatu on the lower slopes of Ngorongoro Crater, a short drive from Tarangire and Lake Manyara national parks and a stone’s throw from the entrance to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Wildlife in the Tarangire
Tarangire is second only to the Serengeti for the concentration of game. It's an area of big breeding herds of elephant and buffalo. Huge baobabs provide shade for sleeping lion and night drives give the opportunity to see elusive leopard on the prowl.
Night Drives in the Tarangire
Night drives are an experience which is not permitted in many of the national parks of Tanzania. In the Tarangire, however, you can head out with your guide, searching the inky dark with a spotlight. This is when the drama ramps up in the African bush.
Search for the migration herds
One of Africa's most iconic moments - the migration of two million wildebeest, zebras and gazelles around the Serengeti-Maasai Mara ecosystem.
Visit to the Shanga workshop
Pay a visit to the Shanga workshop in Arusha, a local, socially-conscious, company which employs people with disabilities to create stunning hand-made jewellery and glassware. Admire the beautiful creations while contributing to the local community.
Ngorongoro Crater game drive
Explore the dormant volcanic caldera of the Ngorongoro Crater in a safari vehicle - this is a unique location for a game drive and the dramatic scenery really adds to the magic.
On safari from Serian Serengeti North Camp
Only a select group of safari operators are able to operate in this amazing area: the Lamai Wedge. Serian are one of the very best at helping you explore an exclusive, beautiful area of big game and unbelievable wildlife experiences away from the masses!
Flamingo Watching on Lake Manyara
Harder to predict than the Great Migration, the Flamingo migration is equally incredible to witness as they descend on Lake Manyara in their thousands. An amazing photo opportunity or simply the chance to witness these spectacular birds in their element.
Walking safari from Lamai
Lamai is one of very few camps in the Serengeti which is permitted to offer walking safaris. This is a superb way to explore this rugged area, setting off on foot from the camp in the morning light.
Game drive in Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara is a tiny gem of a national park in Northern Tanzania, famed in particular for its flamingos. Go on game drives here in search of tree-climbing lions, elephants, waterbuck and hippos.
