Lemala Ngorongoro Camp, Tanzania Tent Hotel

Where Wild Meets Comfort: Lemala Ngorongoro Tent Hotel|||A seasoned family travel enthusiast with 80+ countries of experience shares their personal global hotel reviews. Recommendation: 4 stars Arrival We took a small plane from Zanzibar, stopping at Arusha and Kilimanjaro, before finally landing at Lake Manyara Airport. From there, it was another two-hour drive to the camp. The entire journey was quite arduous. The airport had almost no facilities, we even waited in the open air, and there wasn't much to eat along the way. Therefore, I recommend bringing your own snacks. Long-distance travel in Tanzania can be challenging, especially with young children. South Africa might be a more suitable option for family safaris. We arrived after 2pm, famished. However, stepping into Lemala Ngorongoro Camp felt like entering another world—an exquisite three-course lunch was immediately served, instantly erasing the fatigue of the journey. Accommodation Although Lemala Ngorongoro Camp is a tent camp, its facilities are comparable to a star-rated hotel—equipped with private bathrooms, flush toilets, and comfortable beds. At the same time, it retains a primal charm. For instance, the shower water needs to be manually heated by staff outside the tent, requiring communication during shower time. This experience is both unique and fun. The camp is built on a shady mountainside, making the rooms relatively damp, and the temperature drops at night. However, thoughtful amenities like a wood-burning stove and hot water bottles ensure a warm and cozy night. Additionally, armed guards patrol around the tents 24/7 to prevent wild animals from wandering in, ensuring safety. Location The camp's proximity to the entrance of Ngorongoro National Park is a major advantage. You can drive into the park as early as 6am, the prime time for animal viewing as they search for food. At this hour, most tourists haven't arrived yet, allowing for an optimal viewing experience. Dining All three meals are included, not only delicious but also exquisitely prepared, making you completely forget that you are in the heart of nature. This is one of the reasons I love safaris—immersing myself in the raw wilderness while enjoying service that surpasses even five-star hotels. Activities The main activity here is wildlife viewing in Ngorongoro National Park. Ngorongoro's uniqueness lies in its crater, a permanent water source. The animals residing here are truly fortunate, never needing to endure the arduous annual migration for water and grazing. As dusk settles, gathering around the campfire and sharing travel stories with fellow travelers from around the world is my favorite moment.