Ngorongoro Serena Lodge

The Edge of the World 

The lodge is situated at an elevation of 7,000 feet on the steep walls of the Ngorongoro Crater. This loftiness provides a surreal, panoramic visual of the 10-mile-wide crater floor and its sparkling soda lake below.

The Tactical Advantage:

• The Dawn Descent: Every ADS itinerary prioritizes the 6:00 AM descent. Staying here allows you to be the first vehicle into the Crater, witnessing the wildlife in the spellbinding solitude of dawn before other travelers arrive.
• The Backyard Residents: The lodge is uniquely positioned in a dense forest corridor; it is common to see resident elephants leisurely munching on leafy greens right in the lodge’s backyard.

Game Drive Highlights: Africa’s Garden of Eden The Crater floor is a dramatic amphitheater of life where the Big Five thrive in a self-contained sanctuary:

• The Rare Black Rhino: The Crater remains the premier location in Tanzania to witness the rare black rhino grazing across the open grasslands.
• Lerai Forest: A magical woodland of ancient trees and tropical ferns where leopards hide in the dappled light and elephants amble through shady thickets.
• Predator Intensity: In this confined sanctuary, lions are famously visible, often seeking shade in the shadows of vehicles, while hyenas and serval cats prowl the tawny grasses.

The Soda Lake: Witness the surreal sight of thousands of pink flamingos preening in the shallow waters—a vibrant contrast against the emerald crater walls.

The Highland Sanctuaries The lodge consists of 75 spacious rooms, each designed as a cozy, climate-controlled haven from the highland chill.

The Guest Experience:

• The Private Terrace: The highlight of every room is the private stone balcony, offering a secluded vantage point to scan the crater floor with binoculars.
• Tribal Style: Rooms feature elegant leather headboards, brass lamps, and hand-drawn “cave sketches” of African wildlife on pale stucco walls.
• The Mountain Atmosphere: Given the 7,000-foot elevation, all rooms are fully heated, featuring plush bedding and warm textures to ensure comfort during the misty nights.

Modern Amenities: Each suite includes a contemporary bathroom with a spacious walk-in shower, hairdryer, and separate vanity.

• Strategic Location: Ideally placed between the Serengeti and Lake Manyara for a seamless travel route.
• Cultural Entertainment: Evening displays of traditional music and dance.
• Wellness & Spa: Herbal massages and beauty treatments available after a day on safari.
• Olduvai Gorge Access: A perfect base for exploring the famous archaeological “Cradle of Mankind.”
• Full Connectivity: Includes internet access, a well-stocked safari boutique, and a library of African history.