Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge -

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Located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge is a moderately priced, convenient option for accessing Ngorongoro Crater. Operated in partnership with the governing body of the area’s Maasai, Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge is mostly staffed by people from the local village and part of the lodge’s revenue goes directly to the local community.

How to Get to Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge

Conveniently located as one of the first lodges as you enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge can be accessed by flying into Arusha Airport (ARK) and Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge is approximately a three-hour drive from Arusha. Alternatively, you can fly into Lake Manyara Airport (LKY) and Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge is approximately a 45-minute drive from Manyara.

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Rooms at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge

The 24 rooms at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge are simply decorated and can accommodate two to four people. Maasai blankets are used to make curtains and bed throws and bring a splash of color to an otherwise neutral room. Each room has a small woodburning fireplace for the winter months and bottled drinking water is provided. Power to charge batteries is available at select times throughout the day (usually in the morning and evening) and will be noted by a sign posted in your room. Electric lights are always available and solar is used to heat the water, so hot water is available even when power is not. You’ll also find a hot water bottle in your room for those extra chilly nights!

The rooms do not overlook the crater, but each has a patio that overlooks the lush green surroundings. While I was there I had a mating pair of Common Waterbuck who regularly hung out near my patio which was a fun surprise!

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Food at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge

The restaurant and bar area is centered around two large fireplaces, making for a cozy atmosphere while you dine. You can also enjoy drinks out on the patio before dinner. Coffee, hot cocoa, and tea were included and always available at a self-service station and I enjoyed watching the wildlife on the bar patio before dinner with a hot cup of tea as the temperatures dropped as we headed into the evening. Meals are served buffet style and are African-inspired. During my stay, the food was hot and plentiful and I was a huge fan of their curry!

Amenities at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge

There is a small gift shop featuring locally made items at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge, but beyond that, there are no other amenities. You won’t find a spa or pool here!