Ngorongoro Melia Lodge

The #1 Vantage Point Occupying the premier location on the entire rim, the lodge is situated at 7,000 feet. The views here are truly jaw-dropping—reminiscent of seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time—providing an unparalleled perspective of the 3,000-square-mile conservation area.

The Tactical Advantage:

• The Prime Position: As the first site ever selected for a lodge in the 1960s, it boasts the most direct and expansive visual of the Crater floor and its soda lake.
• The Backyard Residents: The lodge is a frequent haunt for resident buffalo and elephants; it is not uncommon to see these giants grazing on the lush greens just steps from the viewing deck.

Game Drive Highlights: Africa’s Garden of Eden The Crater floor is a self-contained sanctuary teeming with the “Big Five” and rare species:

• The Rare Black Rhino: This is the premier location in Tanzania to witness the rare black rhino grazing across the tawny grasslands.
• Lerai Forest: A magical woodland of ancient trees and tropical ferns, home to leopards, ambling elephants, and high-intensity predator action.
• Predator Action: The confined area makes for frequent sightings; lions often seek shade in the shadows of vehicles, while hyenas and serval cats are common sights.
• The Soda Lake: From your room, use high-powered binoculars to witness thousands of pink flamingos reflecting in the still waters—a fantastic sight for photographers.

The Rim Collection & Private Suites The Meliá collection features 50 sophisticated, climate-controlled guest rooms, each oriented toward the volcanic caldera with Maasai-inspired accents and modern technology.The Guest Experience:

• The Rim Rooms (215 sq. ft.): The quintessential safari sanctuary. These elegant rooms feature king-size beds and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open directly to the crater’s grandeur. (Interconnecting options available for families).
• Family Rooms & Enkaji Junior Suites (473 sq. ft.): Meaning “house” in Maasai, these suites offer a separate lounge area and earth-toned décor, providing extra space for relaxation or “little adventurers.”
• The Crater & Executive Suites (645–688 sq. ft.): Elevated luxury featuring spacious lounges and spectacular outdoor terraces. The Crater Suite includes a deep-soaking bathtub with a view, perfect for high-altitude relaxation.
• The Presidential & Royal Suites (1,227–2,884 sq. ft.): Palatial multi-bedroom options with expansive terraces, walk-in closets, and private dining areas. These suites represent the peak of rim-side opulence.
• Ngorongoro House (4,305 sq. ft.): The ultimate independent enclave. This 400 m² private villa offers complete seclusion, a dedicated lounge, and the most prestigious views in the entire Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Modern Gastronomy Dining at Meliá is a diverse production, featuring three distinct restaurants and bars that blend international flair with local ingredients.

• The Infinity Deck: Gaze at the jaw-dropping views from the outdoor viewing deck while enjoying a sundowner or a light lunch between game drives.
• Fine Dining: The main restaurants provide a smorgasbord of fresh, delicious options, from buffet spreads to à la carte masterpieces served in a room lined with majestic picture windows.
• Cozy Lounges: Retreat to the common areas where crackling fireplaces add a layer of warmth to the “African Modernist” atmosphere.

• Infinity Pool: An outdoor swimming pool that offers perhaps the most scenic swim on the continent.
• Wellness & Fitness: A 24-hour gym and full-service spa for rejuvenation after a day on the bumpy crater roads.
• Connectivity: Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi provided throughout the property.
• Sustainability: The lodge’s 2023 renovation focused on blending beautifully with the natural surroundings while utilizing eco-conscious modern materials.