Imagine a day, Nature, the African Jungle, and You with a four-wheeler Safari vehicle, endless adrenaline pouring through every vessel, and the pure joy of exploring the ancient cradles of human evolution. Nearly 150,000 years ago, our ancestors, the early Homo sapiens., who were hunter-gatherers, walked through the vast plains of northern Tanzania.
The Book of Darwin, Human Evolution from Africa and How It Sparked a Tourism Boom in Eastern Side of Africa
Until the late 1800s, anthropologists lacked the deep understanding of human evolution that we have today. On a fine sunny day in London, a book by an English naturalist, geologist, and biologist named Charles Darwin emerged like a volcanic eruption in the world of medical and evolution science. In his book, “On the Origin of Species,” Darwin revolutionized scientific thought with his explanation of human evolution, he emphasized the connection between prosimians and modern human species like Homo sapiens.
A new era of research began, and within the early 20th century, scientists found the most probable starting point of the great migration of our ancestors, the continent of Africa. Since then, European scientists and anthropologists have started visiting African countries, such as Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and South Africa more frequently than ever before.
Back in the 1900s: How Safari Lodges Became a Must-Experience Adventure
The early visitors were not only focused on finding human remains or evolution; they started exploring the plains of Africa, its wildlife, both the flora and fauna. However, as they were unfamiliar with natural and wildlife threats, things were still to be sought. In the primary days, some British and Australian scientists started to live with the tribal communities, but it was not sufficient to accommodate the increasing numbers of tourists; both educational and recreational tourists were looking for a place where they could live with similar amenities as they have in their European homes.
Another reason that fueled the necessity of specialized accommodations is the germs that were already adopted by Europeans were still newer for Africans. This was when Europeans started investing in making lodges and motels in many African countries. In addition, local business people, tribesmen, and political leaders with connections to colonial power heavily invested in Tourism Real states; here is the point: a relatively new terminology emerged in the scenario. The African Safari Lodges.
What is a Lodge and When It Becomes a Safari Lodge?
The word Lodge has several possible routes in multiple medieval languages. Like the words from Middle English logge, from Old French loge (“arbour, covered walk-way”), from Frankish *laubijā (“shelter; arbour”), from Proto-West Germanic *laub (“leaf; folliage”) (whence English leaf). The common perception shared by all these routes indicates a house in a garden or forest. For example, in modern English, “arbour” means “a sheltered place in a garden formed by trees and bushes that are grown to partly surround it. a rose arbour.”
The summary of the story can be like this: A lodge is a place for temporary staying, and when it is connected to a safari tour, it becomes a Safari Lodge. Still, without a direct connection with the word “Safari,” the word itself is connected to gardens or jungles. Quite surprising.
Safari Lodges in Tanzania
Tanzania is a country in Eastern Africa. With 17 national parks, and 16,000 sq miles of plain wild area, this country is know as the “the prime game viewing country” in the world. The number of wild species found in Tanzania, is unparalleled with any other African Country.
The history of traveling to Tanzania can be traced back to the first millennium CE. The majority of the visitors of that time were merchants from Middle Eastern countries and India. Later in the 1900s, wild-life reserves were promoted by British Colonial powers, which increased the number of tourists in Tanzania.
Though it sounds incredible and often unbelievable, Tanzania welcomed a record 5.36 million tourists in 2024. The majority of these tourists, who share the same interest in Tanzania Safaris, need places close to the national parks with modern amenities to make the tour adventurous, less tiring, and comfortable. This is where the Tanzania Safari Lodges are coming into the scenario.
The number of safari lodges in Tanzania is tough to pin point, as many of them are not registered and new lodges are being introduced each year. at least 33 listed by Holidify. Many of them situated particularly in popular areas like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
How to Choose a Perfect Safari Lodge in Tanzania?
With mind-boggling numbers and information that is commercial and purposely inflated, it is not easy to find the perfect fit. Besides that, it also depends on which area you are visiting, the distance of the lodge from the nearby national park, user reviews, price vs amenities, and many more things to consider. We recommend dealing with a tour operator who has been reviewed well by previous customers and has positive comments.
For now, visit the website of Sassabi Expeditions, an all-inclusive Tanzania Tour operator with better pricing and higher Google ratings. You will find that on their website, they have listed many lodges with different price ranges and situated in different locations in Tanzania.
In the sections coming next, we have discussed about a Safari Lodge named Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge that will help you understand what to expect in a Tanzanian Safari Range. Definitely it is more than we can expect in the pure wilderness.
Exploring Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge With Sassabi Expeditions
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is tucked away in the craggy rim of the Crater, far above the plains, and obscured by native vines and river stone. Styled cave paintings cover its torch-lit walls, which are framed by timbered decks and arched stone corridors. There is a bright fire at the lodge’s stone centre that is kept burning all the time. The rim of the Crater is encircled with rooms. Every one of them has a balcony surrounded by rock, and they all have unobstructed views of the volcanic amphitheatre below. Although our Ngorongoro hotel lodge feels as old as the Crater itself, every contemporary convenience has been included to give you the greatest safari experience Tanzania has to offer.
Accommodations in Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge Tanzania
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge’s 74 guest rooms and one suite combine the Ngorongoro Crater’s nearly unfathomable majesty and grandeur with unmatched luxury and service standards. There are two types of accommodations are available in Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
- Standard Room
Each standard room includes mineral water, free Wi-Fi, Eco-Boutique bath amenities, and 24-hour room service. Enjoy comfort with a bathrobe, slippers, a coffee/tea-making station, and a private balcony. For families, children’s meals, beds, and babysitting are available, along with laundry, valet, and shoeshine services. A work desk, chair, and safe provide added convenience, with 24-hour medical service ensuring peace of mind.
- Kimba Suite
This business class suits offers a king-size bed, free WiFi, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private balcony for a perfect retreat. Enjoy Eco-Boutique bath amenities, a mini bar, a welcome gift of fruit and wine, and a coffee/tea station. Stay comfortable with a bathrobe, slippers, a work desk, a safe, and 24-hour room service for ultimate convenience.
Gourmet Dining with Spectacular Views from Safari Lodge
The lodge’s on-site restaurant serves a variety of international and local delicacies, ensuring that every meal is a delightful experience. Guests can indulge in a buffet, continental, or Full English/Irish breakfast, setting the perfect tone for a day of exploration. The restaurant also offers lunch and dinner, featuring freshly sourced ingredients and expertly prepared dishes. The open-air dining setting allows visitors to enjoy their meals while taking in the sweeping views of the crater and the surrounding wilderness.
Unparalleled Wildlife Viewing from Ngorongoro Serena
Ngorongoro Crater is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos, making it one of the best safari destinations in Africa. From the lodge, guests can embark on guided game drives into the crater, where they can witness the “Big Five” in their natural habitat. The rich ecosystem of the crater also supports flamingos, zebras, and cheetahs, offering endless opportunities for wildlife photography and exploration.
Luxury and Relaxation in the Heart of the Wilderness
After a day of adventure, guests can unwind with massage services or simply relax on their private balcony, soaking in the stunning views. The lodge provides a free airport shuttle, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. With warm hospitality and world-class service, every moment at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is crafted for comfort and relaxation.
A Romantic Escape for Couples
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is an ideal destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. With its exclusive location, breathtaking scenery, and intimate atmosphere, it’s no wonder that couples rate their experience highly, with a 9.7 rating for two-person trips. Whether celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a retreat from everyday life, the lodge provides the perfect setting for unforgettable memories.
Cultural and Local Experiences
For those interested in cultural immersion, the lodge offers experiences that showcase the vibrant traditions of the local Maasai community. Guests can take part in guided tours, storytelling sessions, and evening entertainment, gaining insight into the rich heritage of the region. These activities create a deeper connection to the land and its people, enhancing the overall safari experience.
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge Location, Optimal Convenience and Accessibility
Despite its remote setting, the lodge is conveniently located near key attractions, including Lake Magadi (13 miles away) and Olduvai Gorge Museum (23 miles away). The nearest airport, Lake Manyara Airport, is just 37 miles from the property, making travel arrangements seamless. Whether arriving by air or road, the lodge provides a gateway to some of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Safari Experience
A stay at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is more than just accommodation—it’s an adventure, a retreat, and a journey into the heart of Africa’s natural wonders. From the incredible wildlife encounters to the luxurious yet eco-conscious lodging, every aspect of the experience is designed to leave guests with memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a honeymooner, or a seasoned traveler, this world-class lodge promises an unforgettable safari escape.
What Is the Difference Between a Lodge and a Tented Camp?
A lodge is a permanent structure with concrete walls, a home-equivalent option to stay on safari nights. While tents are made of canvas but still carry the features like bathroom and kitchen space to cook. Do not get confused by comparing tent camps with regular small tents we usually have at our backyards, these are big, and have a lot better protective features.
Final Thoughts on Ngorongoro Serena
I hope these resources help you find and choose the perfect Tanzania Tour Operator and the perfect lodge that will help you make the most of your Tanzania Safari Tour. If you are planning to visit Tanzania soon, consider visiting the website of Sassabi Expedition for a well-planned, affordable, and enjoyable tour of Tanzanian Safaris.