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Giraffe Manor | Nairobi
Giraffe Manor is an exclusive boutique hotel, set in 12 acres of private land within 140 acres of indigenous forest in a peaceful suburb of Nairobi. This elegant hotel is famous for its resident herd of Rothschild's giraffes who visit morning and evening, poking their long necks into the windows in the hope of a treat. It is the only place in the world where you can enjoy the breath taking experience of hand feeding and photographing giraffes over the breakfast table and at afternoon tea. The Rothschild’s species of giraffe was once highly endangered, but Giraffe Manor has long been part of a breeding programme which has successfully grown their numbers in the wild. With its stately façade, elegant interiors, green gardens, sunny terraces and delightful courtyards, Giraffe Manor offers a unique blend of world class hospitality with bucket-list giraffe experiences unlike anywhere else. A stunning swimming pool, spa rooms, hot tub, steam rooms, sauna and gym are available to guests at The Retreat which right next door on the same forested giraffe sanctuary.
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Giraffe Manor
Betty-the-giraffe was born in 2000 and came to Giraffe Manor in 2002. She is one of the smallest and prettiest giraffes here but she is also the shyest. Betty is named after Betty Leslie-Melville, otherwise known as “The Giraffe Lady”. Betty Leslie-Melville and her husband Jock purchased the manor in the 1970s and she always said that the purchase of the stately home in a leafy suburb of Nairobi changed her life. The same week that the couple moved in to the manor, they learned about the plight of the Rothschild’s giraffe and decided to do whatever they could to conserve them. Today, the breeding and conservation programme that continues on the grounds of the manor remains Betty’s legacy.
In the room named after Betty, you will find Betty’s portrait hanging on the wall. It is a lovely, 32 square-metre south-facing room in the original manor house which was built in 1932. It has a king sized bed, fireplace and adjoining balcony from which the giraffes can be fed. The en-suite bathroom remains to this day in its original, quirky Art Deco style. We have opted not to modernise it as we prefer to embrace the period feel and protect the heritage of the building since so few tributes to Kenya’s past architecture remain. This room cannot be made into a twin and is therefore ideal for couples.
Daisy II was named after the original Daisy Rothschild, who was hand-raised by Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville. Her last calf, Ibrahim, was born in October 2011. Helen, her daughter, was born right here in front of the manor in August 2009. She also had other calves including Frank who was released at two years of age into Lake Nakuru National Park in December 2008. The Leslie-Melvilles wrote a book about their experience with the first giraffe, “Raising Daisy Rothschild”, which became an international bestseller and helped to raise money to move the last of the extremely endangered Rothschild’s herd to the safety of Kenya’s national parks. There have since been two more Daisys at the manor and it is Daisy IV who remains with us today. She was born in August 2009 and is identifiable by her right ear which is missing its pointed tip.
Daisy’s room is approximately 24 square-metres in size and has westward views towards the Ngong Hills. It is one of only two rooms at Giraffe Manor with a balcony from which you can feed the giraffes when they visit in the early morning looking for treats. The room can accommodate either a couple or two singles (can be a double or a twin). The en-suite facilities consist of twin sinks and a spacious shower.
Jock-the-giraffe was named after Jock Leslie-Melville; he lived to be 22 years-old, 19 feet tall and was responsible for fathering over twenty calves, most of which have now been successfully released into Kenya’s national parks. He sadly passed away in July 2009. This lovely south-facing room is still frequented by giraffes looking for treats in the early morning hours. There are pellets in the room from which the giraffes can be fed from the window just like the Leslie-Melvilles once did with the very first giraffes they raised at the manor. From Jock’s room you can also see the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) Giraffe Centre and headquarters, which was founded by Jock when he bought the manor in the 1970s.
Jock’s room is approximately 28 square-metres in size and can accommodate either a couple or two singles (double or a twin). It has a fireplace and both a bathtub and shower in the en-suite facilities as well as twin sinks.
Back in 1932 when the manor was first built as a private residence, the rooms were naturally created according to the original family’s needs and in keeping with the style of a traditional Scottish hunting lodge. Some rooms were large and stately, whilst others were more modest in size. Marlon’s room is a combination of what used to be two small children’s or nanny bedrooms. Once upon a time, these two rooms were known to our guests as Lynn and Marlon. However, in June of 2019 we removed the wall in order to create a delightfully spacious single room that is now the new and upgraded Marlon.
This 36 square-metre bedroom has twin beds that can be converted into a large double bed. There is also an adjoining sitting room with a sofa that can convert into a bed for a child. An east-facing balcony at the foot of the master bed offers guests the opportunity to feed our elegant, long-necked friends as they pass by. It’s the perfect giraffe friendly height! The spacious master bathroom has a shower and there is another compact shower and toilet at the opposite end of the room, ideal for an accompanying child. Guests who stay in Marlon enjoy the privilege of staying in the room named after one of the manor’s original giraffes. Her namesake was everyone’s favourite godfather, Marlon Brando, a friend of the previous Giraffe Manor owners.
Lynn’s room is named after a giraffe who was, for many years, the guardian of our herd of Rothschild’s giraffes. Born in 1996, she was blessed with five calves whilst here at the sanctuary. We loved her kind, solid and reliable nature. Lynn-the-giraffe, who sadly died in 2015, was named after Lynn Sherr, an award-winning news correspondent for the ABC news programme 20/20. An avid admirer of giraffes, she has often stayed at the Manor. Sherr’s book, ’Tall Blondes’, illustrates her love and knowledge of the animals and, in our view, is the definitive work on giraffe.
The room of the same name is located on the ground floor of the main manor and, though one finds it hard to imagine now, it was once the original manor house kitchen. The space was cleverly converted into a beautiful 47 square-metre room in 2019 with a decadent en-suite bathroom including bathtub, shower and twin sinks. The bed can convert between a double or two singles and the room can be accessed via the old service staircase or from the ground level for guests who may have mobility challenges. There is a small veranda with access to a larger, covered outdoor seating area where guests can enjoy feeding the giraffes who amble past.
Karen Blixen came to Kenya from Denmark to marry her friend, Baron Bror von Blixen Fincke, and start a dairy farm. However, when she arrived in the country she found, much to her surprise, that the Baron had invested in coffee instead. Whilst her attempts at growing coffee failed, her courage and stamina earned her enormous respect from those around her. The Danish government gave Blixen’s house to the Kenyan government as an independence gift in 1964. In 1985 when her autobiography ‘Out of Africa’ became an Academy Award-winning Hollywood film, the house was turned into a museum.
The 113 square-metre Karen Blixen room at Giraffe Manor is located on the top floor of the main manor house. Its spacious balcony enjoys lovely south-facing views and provides guests with the opportunity to feed the giraffes in the early morning hours. This two-bedroomed suite – the largest of all the rooms at the manor – was rebuilt and moved to its new location in 2019. Each bedroom has its own en-suite facilities with bathtub, shower and twin sinks. The master bedroom has a king-sized four poster bed, whilst the second bedroom has two single four poster beds and a small daybed which can accommodate a young child. The room also has a spacious lounge with a fireplace and a writing desk. This delightful suite is adorned with a little piece of history; a dressing table and wardrobe that were both from Karen Blixen’s original guest bedroom. The mother of Jock Leslie-Melville (who bought the manor in the 1970s) was a friend of Karen’s and the furniture was given to her as a parting gift when Karen returned to Denmark in 1931.
Helen-the-giraffe was born in front of the manor on 1st August 2009 but she sadly passed away in May 2015. Helen was a natural leader but she was also extremely naughty! She was the daughter of Daisy II. Helen was named after a catholic sister who was a friend of Betty Leslie-Melville who bought the manor with her husband Jock in the 1970s and began the giraffe breeding programme. Sister Helen was based in Tanzania and was responsible for bringing Betty to Africa for the first time. At 43 square-metres, this large corner room in the Garden Manor is one of the most spacious and is often visited by hungry giraffes looking for treats in the morning. Guests who stay here are most welcome to feed them from Helen’s windows before breakfast. The room has two four poster beds which can be put together to make a large double bed or separated for two singles. The room is large enough to accommodate a baby cot if required upon request. The en-suite facilities consist of twin sinks, a bathtub and shower. Helen’s room has views towards the Ngong Hills to the west as well as southward views over the giraffe sanctuary and forest. On a very clear day, one can even see Mount Kilimanjaro’s snowy peak in the distance from this room.
Kelly-the-giraffe was born in Nakuru National Park and was brought to the Giraffe Centre in 2002. She is nicknamed Grace Kelly due to her aloof and graceful nature! She is easily recognisable due to her light coat and large ossicone on her forehead. She is often the first to arrive for treats and the last to leave and she has become infamous as the resident “head-butter” so be careful to always stay in front of her. Kelly was named after Kelly O’Connell, an avid US-based wildlife supporter and one of the directors of The African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW). Kelly’s room is located upstairs in the Garden Manor, is approximately 45 square-metres in size and is beautifully appointed with traditional cane furnishings and a striking stained-glass wall in the bathroom. The room has three single beds, two of which can be put together to accommodate a couple if preferred. It also has a fireplace and views towards the south over the sanctuary forest. The en-suite facilities consist of a bathtub, shower and twin sinks. Guests can feed giraffes from Kelly’s window as they often come to visit this room in the early morning hours before breakfast.
The giraffe named Arlene was born in June 1994 but sadly passed away due to natural causes in early April 2012. She was petite in size but that did not deter her from sharing her affection with visitors. Arlene was named after Arlene Burzinski who was head of the British Airways Conservation projects which provide the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) with a tremendous amount of support. Although Burzinski has left British Airways, she continues to be on the board of directors at AFEW. Arlene’s room is approximately 28 square-metres in size and is located on the upper floor of the Garden Manor. Its quirky-shaped bathroom with bathtub, shower and vintage toilet, along with its cosy feel, make it a favourite of the Giraffe Manor team. The room has a king-sized four poster bed so is ideal for couples. It overlooks the courtyard between the main manor house and the Garden Manor with views beyond to the sanctuary forest. The giraffes do not have access to Arlene but the room offers wonderful views of the giraffes when they come to the manor for breakfast in the morning. It is worth noting that the stairway up to Salma’s room is a little bit steep and thus not ideal for guests with less mobility.
Salma-the-giraffe was born here at Giraffe Manor in November 2011. She is Betty’s daughter and although she is friendly, she is also a bit shy and we attribute this to the fact that she was attacked by a lion that had wandered away from Nairobi National Park when she was only a year old. Salma still bears the scars of this attack and is one tough lady who has also survived the unfortunate loss of two calves, both of whom died shortly after they were born. Salma’s room is amongst the newest rooms at the manor having been recently built and added to the Garden Manor section of the property in April 2017. It is located on the top floor of the Garden Manor and enjoys south-facing views over the lunch courtyard and sanctuary forest beyond. The room is 35 square-metres and can be either a double or a twin. It also has a sofa which converts to a bed that is suitable for a child if needed. The en-suite facilities consist of a bathtub, shower and single sink. Salma has a private balcony with chairs and table from where guests can enjoy wonderful views of the giraffes approaching the manor in the early morning. Although the giraffes do not have access to Salma’s room, it is a quiet room offering privacy and understated comfort to guests who need to catch up on some rest after a long flight or busy safari. It is worth noting that the stairway up to Salma’s room is a little bit steep and thus not ideal for guests with less mobility.
Edd-the-giraffe, son to Jock and Lynn, was born here at Giraffe Manor in July 2011 and is now the dominant male and father to all the young calves presently roaming the sanctuary grounds. He enjoys being fed from Jock’s room more than anywhere else and is a gentle giant who will happily welcome a hug in exchange for a few pellets. He is easily recognisable as the largest giraffe here and by the way his offspring hurry out of the way in deference to him when he arrives on scene. Edd’s room is amongst the newest rooms at the manor having been recently built and added to the Garden Manor section of the property in April 2017. It is a ground-floor room of 39 square-metres with striking stained-glass windows above an enormous super-king-sized bed. There is also a sofa in the room which can pull out into a bed for a child if needed. The en-suite facilities consist of a corner bathtub, a large double shower and twin sinks. Although the giraffes do not have access to Edd’s room, guests can enjoy the room’s outdoor veranda area furnished with its own private bar.
In 1911, Denys Finch Hatton travelled to British East Africa with money left to him by his deceased uncle. He bought some land on the western side of the Rift Valley near to what is now Eldoret. He met Karen Blixen at the Muthaiga Club in 1918 and when Karen got divorced in 1925, Denys moved into her house where he lived until a few weeks before his final flight in May 1931 when he crashed his beloved Gypsy Moth in Tsavo National Park. As per Finch Hatton’s wishes, Blixen buried him in the Ngong Hills. The room named after him is on the ground floor of the Garden Manor from where you’ll often see the legs of our spotted residents when you open the curtains in the early morning as they come looking for treats from the rooms above and the adjoining dining room. This ground-floor room of 74 square-metres has a king-sized bed and two single beds in a loft area which is accessed by a small spiral staircase. There is also a small day bed which can accommodate a third child if needed. The en-suite facilities have a uniquely large double-headed shower, twin sinks and a bathtub. There is a fireplace which keeps the space wonderfully warm on the chillier Nairobi nights and a small seating area.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Spa, TV Room
Room Facilities
En-Suite, Fireplace, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
Credit Card Facilities
Activities on Site
Boules, Fine Dining, High Tea, Massages
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Cultural Tours, Game Viewing, Helicopter Rides, Horse Riding, Museums, Safaris
Waking up to breakfast with a giraffe is a unique and unforgettable experience. Depending on where you are staying, you will have breakfast either in the main manor or in the Garden Manor breakfast room, but don’t worry, the giraffes know exactly where to find you. Watch out for their long inquisitive tongues as they investigate what’s on offer; luckily, it’s nutritious dried pellets of grass that they’re after, and not your pancakes!
A traditional afternoon tea at the manor is a delightful occasion not to be missed. Relax in the tranquil gardens with a giraffe or two in view, as you enjoy a tasty assortment of cookies, cakes, sandwiches, scones and fruit platters. There will be plenty of opportunities to feed and interact with the giraffes during this experience and the team are adept at helping everyone snap the perfect photo memory.
Included in your stay at the manor is access to the AFEW Giraffe Centre which is a gentle stroll across the front lawn of the house. The centre has some interesting background information about the rare Rothschild’s giraffes and a small nature trail for stretching your legs.
Glide through our 21 metre infinity pool which looks out over the giraffe sanctuary. Our lovable herd of Rothschild’s giraffes are able to wander up to the end of the pool, so you might have a long-legged spectator or two! The poolside deck with sun loungers is a lovely space for relaxation and listening to the birdsong floating down from the surrounding trees.
Unwind after a long journey or at the end of an exciting safari adventure in our soothing spa area complete with a traditional sauna, steam room and bubbling hot tub for you to enjoy. You can also utilise the fully equipped gym that looks out onto the garden and has everything you need for a full-body workout.
The Retreat’s spa offers a range of massage and beauty treatments designed to restore your body’s natural balance and soothe away your stress. We use products by Healing Earth, a premium organic brand inspired by ancient African healing traditions.
Fragrant and filled with light, the orchid house is a delightful hidden corner of the manor. Reading, meditating or sketching one of the 150 orchids that grow there can be a soothing escape. If a romantic, candlelit dining experience amongst the foliage appeals to you, then we would love to make it happen. Please note that this activity is subject to availability and may not always be possible.
Visit Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage on the edge of Nairobi National Park where you can foster a baby elephant and watch the keepers feed and interact with them. Elephant adoption costs US$ 50 (per couple adopting) and foster parents are sent regular updates and photos of their elephant. Visiting hour takes place daily at 11:00 am and must be booked in advance via their website. Visiting requires a donation of US$ 20 per adult or US$ 5 for children under 12, payable in cash on the day of your visit.
In addition to the donation, you will also be required to pay full entry fees for Nairobi National Park where the orphanage is located. This is done via the online government platform e-Citizen using a Visa/Mastercard and your guide can help you to complete this on the morning of your visit.
Enjoy a game of chess at any time. We have a lovely handmade chess board, which of course features giraffes, as well as lions, cheetah, zebras and rhinos in place of the traditional figures!
Our luscious lawns are perfectly suited to a leisurely game of croquet or boules, and we have both here at the manor. Over at The Retreat, we have giant Jenga which is great fun for all the family. Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you in setting up the games. They are best enjoyed during the daytime, when the giraffes are out browsing in the sanctuary.
Daisy’s Café is located at The Retreat, our wellness centre right next door to Giraffe Manor. Here you’ll find a vibrant menu of freshly prepared snacks and meals as well as a fully stocked bar. Our expert chef loves to use nutritious, locally sourced ingredients (many of which are grown in the veggie garden) to create nourishing farm to fork style dishes. Dine al fresco in the leafy surroundings of our garden terrace, or under the vaulted ceilings of the café. All food and drinks consumed at Daisy’s are charged as extras to Giraffe Manor guests and are payable direct or can be added to your room bill.
KAREN BLIXEN MUSEUM
Step back in time at the Karen Blixen Museum, which offers a glimpse into Kenya’s history. Once the farmhouse of Baroness Karen Blixen and her Swedish Husband, Baron Bror von Blixen Fincke, the house gained international fame through the Oscar-winning film ‘Out of Africa’ which is based on her autobiography of the same name. The museum provides guided tours of the house and beautifully serene grounds and gives you a sense of the style of Karen Blixen’s home with a number of original pieces of furniture still in place. There is a small gift shop and stunning views over the Ngong Hills. This visit is short, but worth it if you have an interest in Kenya’s past.
AFRICAN HERITAGE HOUSE
This one-of-a-kind museum gallery is packed with arts and crafts from communities all over Africa and includes paintings, beadwork, textiles and carvings. Built in the 1970s, the house has a unique history and became one of the first pan-African galleries when it was co-founded by American Alan Donovan together with the former vice-president of Kenya, Mr. Joseph Murumbi and his wife. Enjoy a tour of the house and grounds and take in the captivating views over Nairobi National Park. Tours must be pre-booked and can include meals if desired. Please note that credit cards are not accepted.
NAIROBI NATIONAL MUSEUM
Visit the Nairobi National Museum for an education in Kenya’s wonderfully rich heritage. Afterwards, you can take a stroll through the museum’s botanical gardens. This activity takes up half a day as the museum is in a different area of Nairobi to Giraffe Manor, so travel there can take up to an hour depending on traffic. The museum contains a fabulous and extensive collection of stuffed birds, so worth a visit for any budding ornithologists.
MATBRONZE ART GALLERY & FOUNDRY
Matbronze Art Gallery & Foundry features a display of over 600 hand cast bronze sculptures by wildlife artist Denis Mathews. From tiny lion cub paw prints to life sized crocodiles, the sculptures are impressive and fascinating to look at in their accurate representation of a diverse range of Kenya’s wildlife. There is also an art gallery exhibiting a selection of local artists and a delightful garden café serving delicious homemade snacks and meals.
CIRCLE ART GALLERY
African art is hitting the global art scene in a big way. The Circle Art Agency is Nairobi’s premier modern art gallery and offers a fantastic outing for collectors and enthusiasts alike. We recommend pre-booking your visit. Avid art enthusiasts can also book a private appointment to visit the gallery if the opening times are unsuitable, although this must be booked in advance and is subject to availability.
GoDOWN ARTS CENTRE
A fun art studio to visit exhibiting a range of artwork in different media from local artists, including fine arts, block print, etching and palette knife painting. There are currently five artists in residence who you can meet, each of whom create, exhibit and sell their work from here. If there is a particular artist you would like to meet, then we recommend you call ahead of time to ensure they’re available during your visit.
SHOPPING IN NAIROBI
Indulge in a little retail therapy and discover some of our talented local artisans. Shopping in Nairobi is fun and we know exactly where to find all manner of locally crafted goodies right on our doorstep. From beaded leather belts and sandals to beautifully carved wooden bowls, jewellery, traditional masks, woven baskets, Maasai blankets and more. Here’s our pick of the best local shops for finding unique gifts and goodies to take home:
KOBE TOUGH
Formerly known as Kazuri Beads, Kobe Tough is just a stone’s through away from the manor and offers great free factory tours to see exactly how their ceramic beads are produced. There’s a shop selling their handmade jewellery and beaded leather goods, all of which supports single mothers, widows and orphans in Kenya.
LANGATA LINK SHOPS
Just five minutes from the manor, here you’ll find a collection of shops all under one roof selling a range of jewellery, homeware, clothing and more, including the bright designs and extremely popular Kenya Kanga products! It’s become a local hangout with a great café and small children’s play area.
UTAMADUNI
This collection of Kenyan curios (souvenirs) has everything you could want all under one roof, from fridge magnets to magnificent beaded masks. Just ten minutes away from the manor for a quick trip, although easy to get lost in for hours.
OCEAN SOLE
This is a brilliant social enterprise that upcycles old flip-flops found on beaches and waterways in Kenya by making them into unique and functional art pieces. It aims to raise awareness of the state of our oceans and visits to the shop enable a glimpse behind the scenes at how their brightly coloured flip flop art is crafted.
HOUSE OF TREASURES EMPORIUM
Slightly further than those listed above, but still within half an hour’s drive from the manor, this is another collection of local shops with two eateries frequented by Nairobi residents. Here you’ll find a range of home décor and household accessories, as well as a small bronze sculpture gallery.
GIRAFFE MANOR SHOP
If you prefer to maximise your time at the manor, we have our own Giraffe Manor Shop on site with a range of carefully selected, unique items all handmade by talented local artisans. There are also several nearby shopping malls with large supermarkets, pharmacies and other shops for those that need.
This iconic park is the only national park within the limits of a capital city. It is home to a diverse array of wildlife including lions, leopards, buffalos, zebra, antelopes, giraffe and over 400 species of birds. Once inside the park, it really does feel like you have left the city behind. Sunset over the Ngong Hills and vast vistas stretching down over acacia-dotted plains are evocative of the spirit of Africa. Although fenced on three sides, the 117 square kilometre park is open to the south and teeming with wildlife.
Giraffe Manor has one open sided 4 x 4 vehicle for game viewing in Nairobi National Park. This is bookable on an exclusive basis only for single groups of up to six guests checked-in at Giraffe Manor or The Retreat. We recommend pre-booking to ensure availability, as the vehicle cannot be shared with other guests.
Please note that game drives cannot be combined with arrival or departure transfers. If you would like to visit the park outside of check-in times, we are very happy to help you arrange a private vehicle and guide for your Nairobi National Park experience.
Malo stables offer fantastic forest rides with views of the Ngong Hills. The horses are highly trained and the hosts extremely professional. There are a variety of riding options available that could include an alfresco lunch after a lovely ride through the forest at an extra cost. We recommend you book in advance and note that a 50% deposit is required to secure the booking.
Waking up to breakfast with a giraffe is a unique and unforgettable experience. Depending on where you are staying, you will have breakfast either in the main manor or in the Garden Manor breakfast room, but don’t worry, the giraffes know exactly where to find you. Watch out for their long inquisitive tongues as they investigate what’s on offer; luckily, it’s nutritious dried pellets of grass they’re after, and not pancakes!
A traditional afternoon tea at the manor is a delightful occasion not to be missed. Relax in the tranquil gardens with a giraffe or two in view, as you enjoy a tasty assortment of cookies, cakes, sandwiches, scones and fruit platters.
This an a la Carte restaurant located at Giraffe Manor's Retreat. Whilst all meals are included in stays at Giraffe Manor and will be served in the manor's dining room or terrace, Daisy's is available for guests to visit at any time should they wish to do so and anything ordered here is a payable extra. The seasonal menu uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to make nutritious dishes bursting with flavour. Many of the ingredients are grown in the organic veggie garden on site. Guests might like to enjoy a freshly squeezed juice or signature smoothie after a spa treatment or post-workout.
Your Stay
1 Night
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Hotel
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Birding, Nature, Wildlife
Lewa Wilderness | Lewa Conservancy
Lewa Wilderness is one of Kenya’s oldest private safari experiences. For fifty years guests have been coming to this remarkable region to be part of an adventure like no other. Those five decades have seen that passion passed down through the Craig family who proudly continue to run Lewa Wilderness today.
Guests can relax by the fire in the cozy sitting room and share meals around a long banquet table in the open-air dining room. Natural springs, home-raised livestock, and a 5-acre organic garden are transformed by skilled chefs into incredible, healthy and delicious food.
There are nine comfortable thatched cottages with spacious ensuite bathrooms, fireplaces in the sitting areas and verandas.
Activities to take part in while staying at Lewa Wilderness include game drives, game walks, camel safaris, horseback riding, and day visits to the Ngare Ndare forest. Scenic flights are also available with Air Wilderness!
There is a very good chance of seeing all of the “Big Five” and Lewa is one of the only game parks where visitors are almost guaranteed to see the endangered black and white rhinos.
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360 Degree tour
Lewa Wilderness Rooms & Main House
This Garden Room is set back a little bit from the hillside and hidden away in the trees, offering views over the top and onto the valley beyond. With a small upstairs, it is perfect for couples or for friends and siblings who wish to share.
The Hillside Cottages take advantage of the stunning northerly views from Lewa. Each room is quite different in its layout and sleeping configuration and takes advantage of the uneven hill side to form unusual shapes which load them with character. Every room has en suite facilities and its own private sitting area, bar and veranda.
The Garden Cottages at Lewa Wilderness are nearest the main areas and are built in pairs with private en suite facilities and a shared veranda and sitting room. The layout of these rooms is ideal for a family or those who do not want to walk too far as they are nearer the main facilities. The rooms are flanked and fronted by well kept lawns which give families that extra outdoor space to use. These Garden rooms were built to cater for families or friends travelling together and remain very close to the heart of everything that happens here.
This Hillside Cottage is the furthest away from the main areas, and is complete with its own private veranda and plunge pool. It has a shared living room with two ensuite bedrooms, one of which is a small twin. Bright and airy, this cottage is great for those who wish to be a little more remote.
Private Wilderness
Private Wilderness is an extension of us, the Craig family have welcomed guests since 1972, and now they warmly invite you to enjoy a slice of this legacy, as your own.
This private property comprises of five individual thatched cottages, set along the tranquil valley of the Eastern Marania River, each with their own picturesque view over the hills beyond. Complete with en-suite bathrooms, they can be arranged as either double or twin configuration, accommodating a maximum of ten guests simultaneously.
This property is sold on an exclusive use only basis.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Baby Sitting, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Gym on property, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Secure Parking
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Verandah
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Garden Tours, Gourmet Picnic, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Horse-back Safaris, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Scenic Flights, Sleep Outs, Tennis Court, Walks (Guided)
A team of fully-qualified driver guides are on hand for vehicle safaris across the conservancy. The specially adapted open vehicles allow for excellent viewing but it is the richness of the game that our guests talk about. All the main safari predators, the rare Grevy zebra and of course the threatened rhino, both black and white, can be viewed in abundance. A particular favourite and well recognised aspect of the area near the lodge are the good elephant numbers. The game drives are on your terms using our experience and are not limited to daylight hours. We often explore the conservancy by night using spotlight and the full moon when it obliges. Lewa offers a very good opportunity to see the Big 5.
One of the most popular ways to explore the conservancy is in a more traditional fashion – on foot. Lewa Wilderness’ expert Masai walking guides, who have lived here all their lives, explore Lewa with guests to really get up close to many of our wild neighbours. Out walking almost nothing is a barrier and ground is covered very easily making the safari experience so much more real. Guests either walk in the early morning or early evening before dark.
With over thirty horses in our stables Lewa Wilderness is well equipped to explore our wilderness. With everything from ponies up, they are able to cater for a wide range of experience levels and have become very accustomed to accommodating groups of mixed ability. They offer extensive exploration on horseback and it is one of the very popular ways to investigate and safari through the open lands to the east of the lodge. For experienced riders full morning or full day rides can be arranged, or spend the night out with the horses and our fly camp!
For something a little out of the ordinary, why not ride a camel! Guests can opt for a short ride in the bush, or for those seeking further adventure Walking Wild is our camel safari operation. This involves a longer camel trek (2 nights minimum) where guests walk across the African plains while the camels and Maasai guides transport the camp.
Visit our 'Shamba' ( Farm ) where we grow all the fresh fruit and vegetables for the lodge. There are cows, chickens and goats free range down here too. We try and be as self sustaining as possible, and this is a lovely place to explore.
Join us on the farm for a guided “back of house” tour ending in our organic garden with a freshly cooked lunch beneath the Mango trees. Such a special atmosphere celebrating our ethos of sustainable living at Wilderness.
Drive or walk to your exclusive campsite for the night and spend the evening around the campfire. Our fly camp is simple but extremely comfortable, with hot bucket showers and cosy tents, there is a mosquito dome option for those who want to sleep under the stars. For advanced horse riders we can also ride there. This experience ensures adventure in comfort.
There is a fully equipped gym at the lodge.
Lewa Wilderness provides employment and training to local people through Lewa Crafts Furniture and Kifuma Weaving project. All of the beautiful furniture in the lodge is designed and created in our workshop, fashioned out of salvaged acacia wood and crafted into unique designs. The carpet weaving uses natural wool, spun and woven by hand into beautiful rugs for sale in our gift shop. Guests are welcome to visit both projects and see the craftsmanship at first hand.
The nearby Ngare Ndare Forest offers a different ecosystem to explore, with a treetop canopy walk and spectacular waterfalls where you can swim and enjoy a picnic lunch. This is a full day trip.
For those guests interested in the local traditional culture, there is an authentic Maasai village where guests can spend the day enjoying a unique experience interacting with amazing people. This is a full day trip.
Air Wilderness is able to offer scenic flights straight from the lodge in our cessna 206 which takes up to 4 passengers. Fly to RETETI Elephant Orphanage for their morning feed, or cruise low level along the Ewaso Ng'iro River and stop for a sundowner in a remote location. Air Wilderness can also be chartered privately to take you wherever you need to go across Kenya. Unfortunately our WACO Biplane is still unavailable due to us redoing the licences.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Ngare Serian | Mara North Conservancy
‘Ngare’ translates to ‘by the river’ in the Masai language, and the idea behind this snug little camp was to transport the serenity of the original Serian camp to the water’s edge. Hugging the banks of the Mara, Ngare Serian is cosy and intimate. It can only be reached on foot, over a narrow rope bridge – and in a way the crossover is symbolic: a call to step out of touch and out of time, and give yourself over to the natural charm of the place. There’s something special about being on the water’s edge – the water slipping and sloshing over the stones sets a soothing soundtrack, but at the same time its energy and movement lends lightness and life – green shoots, verdant growth and glossy rocks that metamorphose into hippos.
Ngare Serian consists of only 4 tents, and this intimacy makes it perfect for hosting a family holiday, or gathering a group of friends. The tents are dotted along the riverbank, decked out in style with Zanzibar four-poster beds and open bathrooms overlooking pods of hippo. Take a leaf out the hippos’ book: lounge languidly, soaking up the sights and sounds of the bush from the bathtub built into your veranda decking.
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Marquee Tents
Ngare Serian consists of only 4 tents, and this intimacy makes it perfect for hosting a family holiday, or gathering a group of friends.
The tents are dotted along the riverbank, decked out in style with Zanzibar four-poster beds and open bathrooms overlooking pods of hippo.
Take a leaf out the hippos’ book: lounge languidly, soaking up the sights and sounds of the bush from the bathtub built into your veranda decking.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available)
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mosquito Nets, Pure Cotton Linen, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Available Services
Room Service
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Catch-and-release Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, High Tea, Night Drives, Safaris, Sleep Outs, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Walks, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hiking, Horse Riding, Horse-back Safaris, Hot Air Ballooning, Rhino Tracking, Safaris, Tree-top Canopy Tours
The cornerstone of a safari experience at Serian is that each group has their own open-top safari vehicle, and their own dedicated guide and spotter. The freedom this grants you is key to getting the most out of your stay: go where the day takes you, without the limitations of fixed schedules, or fitting in with other peoples’ plans. Nothing but personal desire need dictate what you do.
Our vehicles are specially customised to be a climbing frame, and a photographer’s extra tool. They are comfortable, able to handle the terrain, and cover the distance…. And were designed for sun, rain, wind, and above all, the feeling of having as little as possible separating you from what’s out there.
Our guides and spotters are intimately familiar with these special places, so they know all its secrets and the ways the animals interact with it, from the subtle changes of the seasons, to the stages of an animals lifecycle, to the flora that sustains it all – they are the key that can unlock it all for you.
Although ‘Walker’ really is Alex’s surname, being born to such an identity turns out to have been a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Spending his childhood days out on foot with his father’s trackers, then turning this into a full-time career as soon as he possibly could, Alex’s passion is walking, and it is without a doubt his preferred method of accessing the bush.
Walking safaris epitomise the golden chance to get away from the trails and beaten tracks, and immerse in the environment in a way that the noise and speed of vehicles don’t permit. Once you slow down, there’s a whole world that you never noticed before.
The beauty of walking is that it engenders an appreciation of an ecosystem’s sheer perfection: every tiny element has its place, and plays its role.
Stripping away the layers between you and an untamed setting beckons forth your primal instincts: your hearing, sight and smell all sharpen in response – and your appreciation of what you perceive is heightened as a result.
At Ngare Serian, we walk in our own private conservation area – a strictly no-vehicle zone that only we have access to. Here, you are likely to have close encounters with elephant, buffalo, hippo as well as more rare species like Chandler’s Mountain Reedbuck, klipspringer and oribi.
We employ scouts whose job it is to patrol the area and look out for snares, and walking in their company yields an insight into the land from the point of view of someone who roams it every day and knows it intimately.
First off, a disclaimer: flycamping has nothing to do with flying. Rather, it takes its name from sleeping in the bush under nothing more than a flysheet, as was the camping tradition before the luxury-laden era of ‘glamping’ arrived.
The premise is that you spend the days walking, and the nights sleeping out in light weight tents, in a makeshift camp that moves each day – the end of each day’s walk brings you to your new site for the night.
Flycamping can easily be incorporated into your stay with us, with some nights spent in our main camp before and after – and in fact, we can’t recommend it enough. It can add a whole new dimension to your experience, and a taste of the wilderness that few others ever encounter.
For so many, the definition of a night drive has come to be a quick scan around with spotlights en route back to camp after sundowners.
For us though, it’s an exploration of the enigmatic nightlife that we are oblivious to as we sit around the dinner table and proceed to bed. Nocturnal creatures emerge, the heavens are festooned with stars, and the landscape mutates into a whole other world by the light of the moon.
Take a flask of soup and a picnic dinner, and set out with a spotlight: if nothing else, the solitude and silence by starlight is reason enough in itself. Using red-filtered bulbs to avoid dazzling the animals, scan the plains for that pride of lion looking ready to hunt.
Once you’ve spotted them, switch to infrared floodlights, and watch the scene unfold through our infrared cameras. This is as close as you’ll get to invisibility, watching the wildlife without the fact of your presence affecting it.
An early morning departure from Ngare Serian will see you at your launchpad. Suspended in a basket beneath the balloon's canopy, you float over the plains and above the forest alongside the Mara River, checking out hippos, crocodile and elephant from high above.
The flight time is generally in the region of one hour and ends with a champagne breakfast in the open grassland within the reserve. An unbeatable start to the day!
Ngare Serian - Our Dining Table
Roisin & Adrian, our wondrous Mara managers, make for a fabulous foodie duo. Adrian, whose choice de-stress activity was mowing his lawn, decided to stretch his repertoire to an organic garden.
Sourcing manure from local Masai, and rigging up beehives to dissuade peckish elephants, his herbs, fruit, veggies and honey began to thrive in the lush Mara climate.
Enter Roisin: culinary genius with a knack for all things fresh and tasty. The morning’s leafy bounty is transformed into lunchtime deliciousness with casual ease and flair.
Aside enchanting tastebuds, Adrian’s garden dodges the environmental unfriendliness of importing, and spreads goodness into the community through employment, vitamins and income for manure. Power to the plants!
Your Stay
4 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 4
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Hiking, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge | Arusha
Located in the middle of a verdant coffee plantation, Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge is a sanctuary of aromatic tranquility and a welcome retreat after a long international flight, or the dust and excitement of a thrilling bush safari.
Take residence in one of 30 luxury wooden chalets - 12 Plantation Suites and 18 Plantation Rooms - nestled amongst the surrounding gardens and sea of coffee trees.
Turning off the road, a tree-lined drive guides you to the warm and inviting main area with its quiet understated aura of luxury. Vibrant gardens, a spa, and a swimming pool await, and a restaurant, Bacchus, and café bistro, 3° South, boast menus to satisfy the most discerning of palates, successfully fusing international culinary prowess with locally-sourced ingredients.
Visitors are also welcome to enjoy convenient gift shopping at the Traders Walk Boutiques, located on site. Browse through a collection of five boutiques offering arts and crafts, jewellery, clothing, gourmet coffee and cakes and traditional Swahili food.
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The 12 Plantation Suites are spacious, modern yet homely retreats among the coffee trees. With a soothing rainfall shower and generous bathtub, a private outside terrace with log fire, a 32” TV with satellite service and attractive décor reflecting the omnipresent theme of coffee, a Plantation Suite invites guests to relax and unwind.
The 18 Plantation Rooms are cosy and comfortably furnished rooms nestled among the aromatic coffee trees. A welcoming atmosphere greets guests, who enjoy an inviting in-room log fire, en suite bathroom with shower and bath, and a verandah overlooking the surrounding green coffee garden.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Conference Centre, Laundry Service (Available), Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Clothes Press, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heater, Iron / Ironing Board, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Chauffer Service, Credit Card Facilities, Foreign Exchange, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours), Travel Desk
Activities on Site
Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Garden Tours, Gourmet Picnic, Massages
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Golf, Hot Air Ballooning, Museums, Safaris, Tennis Court, Wildlife Tours
Take a guided walk around the workings of the coffee plantation to see how the coffee is grown, harvested, dried, and produced into the aromatic coffee that we drink every day, culminating in that all-important coffee tasting!
Tours are an additional cost to accommodation.
The Trader's Walk is a collection of 5 boutique shops and gourmet food places within the ground of Arusha Coffee Lodge showcasing some of the best creativity and ingenuity of Tanzania.
Shanga - A workshop creating gift arts and crafts.
Watch beautiful jewellery, arts and crafts being created out of recycled materials.
Soko - The gift shop
From safari clothing to wonderful keepsakes and gifts.
Jikoni - The authentic African kitchen
An open-to-air restaurant with traditional Swahili food on offer.
The Tanzanite Experience - The jewellery store
Tanzanite Experience specialises in authentic, ethically-mined Tanzanite gemstones and jewellery. Tanzanite, a beautiful blue stone, is said to be a 1000 times rarer than diamonds.
Kahawa - The cafe
A delightful gourmet cafe selling freshly ground coffee and fresh-baked cakes either 'to go' or served on Kahawa's shaded terrace.
Take a picnic lunch and enjoy an excursion to the slopes of Mt Meru where Arusha National Park is located. The park enjoys an abundance of birdlife, and quite a variety of wildlife. The landscape within its relatively small 137km2 is impressively varied and offers some spectacular views.
A day excursion to Arusha National Park is an additional cost to accommodation.
Arusha is a bustling town with one of the fastest growing populations in Africa. Shopping and cultural experiences are on offer, including Masai Markets, the Tanzanite Museum, Museum of Natural History and Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, plus a variety of boutique gift shops, cafes and restaurants.
City tour of Arusha is at an additional cost to accommodation.
Indulge in a pampering and relaxing treatment at Peaberries. Select from bouquet of treatments, including massages, pedicures, manicures, waxes and facials.
Spa treatments are not included in accommodation price.
Taking its name from the Roman god of food and wine, Bacchus is located within the main house at Arusha Coffee Lodge.
This a la carte menu, created and devised by our Executive Chef, pays homage to international gourmet and culinary techniques whilst featuring the very finest in fresh, locally sourced produce that in turn enhances each dish with that all-important local flavoring, all complimented an extensive wine list.
With indoor and garden terrace seating available, and serviced by its very own bar, coffee station and wood fired pizza oven, ‘3 Degrees South’ cafe bistro serves a rich variety of goumet dishes all prepared using the very best of fresh, locally sourced produce.
Every day an extravagant buffet luncheon is served in the cool, manicured gardens.
Your Stay
1 Night
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English, Swahili
No. Rooms: 30
Special Interests: Adventure, Gourmet, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Wine
andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge | Lake Manyara National Park
Set in a mahogany forest, andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is the only permanent lodge in the Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park. Ten stilted treehouse suites, crafted from local timber and makuti palm fronds, offer privacy and exclusivity in cool, leafy surroundings. Each treehouse suite features generous decks suspended above the forest floor and large windows invite the lush forest inside. While the bedrooms are fitted with contemporary furnishing and billowing mosquito nets, the bathrooms feature freestanding baths and an outdoor shower. A central interactive kitchen allows guests to observe the preparation of delicious dishes that are enjoyed in the theatrical boma or on the open dining decks, with spectacular forest views.
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andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge
Each stilted Treehouse Suite features generous decks suspended above the forest floor and large windows inviting the lush forest inside. The classically elegant bedrooms are fitted with contemporary furnishings in neutral colours and textures, overhead fans and billowing mosquito nets. The bathrooms have freestanding baths with a forest view and an outdoor shower.
The Family Treehouse Suite is cradled in the boughs of Lake Manyara’s ancient trees and holds two classically elegant ensuite rooms. A generous deck suspends above the forest floor and large windows invite the lush forest inside. The main bathroom boasts a freestanding bath and an indoor shower, whilst the second bathroom features an indoor shower. The Family Treehouse Suite can accommodate a maximum of two adults and two children (three children can be provided for on request).
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Pool, Restaurant
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours)
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Cycling, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Bird Watching, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Mountain Biking, Safaris
We offer twice-daily game drives with sunrise and sundowner stops. andBeyond’s professionally trained guides will ask you about your favourite wildlife and will do their very best to ensure that your preferences are met, whether it’s tracking an animal or spending more time at sightings. Guides will also introduce our Star Birds and explain Lake Manyara’s diverse habitats.
You may also choose to go out on a night game drive (available at an additional cost) to discover the nocturnal life of Africa’s predators.
Keen birders will delight in the opportunity to birdwatch and search for approximately 400 species. The variety of ecosystems, brings a large diversity of birdlife found in this small park. Find all of the Star Birds and celebrate with a bottle of sparkling wine.
Guests who spend two or more nights at andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, will receive a complimentary game drive at night or a scenic bicycle ride exploring Lake Manyara.
SAFARI NIGHT DRIVE
andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is one of the few places in Tanzania where guests can experience evening game drives, and the opportunity to encounter sightings of nocturnal predators.
SCENIC BICYCLE RIDE
Enjoy a guided bike ride or walk through the Mayoka community. Drive to Mayoka to collect your bicycle and begin your adventure through this vibrant village. Here, you will have the chance to interact with the friendly residents, including members of the nomadic Mang’ati tribe. The scenic journey will lead you to the lake, where you may be treated to sightings of various waterbirds.
An enriching highlight on any stay, a community visit provides a first-hand experience of the projects Africa Foundation, our long-standing community and conservation development partner, is facilitating and supporting to enable future leaders, healthy ecosystems, future foundations and thriving communities.
Meander through the forest in the lodge’s surrounds and encounter extraordinary birds, butterflies, and the other small creatures that would not normally be seen from a safari vehicle.
Families and groups will fall in love with the tranquility and adventure of Lake Manyara Tree Lodge. Here a Family Treehouse Suite has been specially designed with two rooms that can accommodate a family of four (two adults and two children). Travel to Tanzania is recommended for children eight-years or older.
Children will have the opportunity to embark on our very exciting WILDchild programme, filled with fun, interactive activities that offer opportunities to learn and discover new experiences and cultures. Our adventures at &Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge include:
• Butterfly walks
• Cycling through a village
• Bow and arrow shooting
• Spear throwing
• Playing football games with the our staff
• Baking cookies with our chefs and marshmallow
roasting in the boma
Enjoy a guided bike ride or walk through the Mayoka community. Drive to Mayoka to collect your bicycle and begin your adventure through this vibrant village. Here, you will have the chance to interact with the friendly residents, including members of the nomadic Mang’ati tribe. The scenic journey will lead you to the lake, where you may be treated to sightings of various waterbirds.
Should you not be inclined to hop onto a bicycle, there is a guided walk along the same route.
Available at an additional cost. Maximum of 14 guests.
Beyond your average fly camping experience
Spend an evening under a blanket of a million stars, on an unforgettable sleepout adventure. After a night game drive, you will be ushered to a secluded and exclusive sleepout spot where luxuriously adorned beds, swathed in romantic netting, a private campfire, and all the amenities you require to feel comfortable, await you. Perfect for up two to four guests, over the age of 16.
*Should a private vehicle be booked, guests can arrive at the sleepout venue as the sun is setting and can directly head out from there on an evening game drive.
Add another dimension to your daily game drives and enter the world of Africa’s nocturnal predators on a thrilling night drive, made particularly spectacular with the moon reflecting off the lake. After an early dinner, leave the lodge at about 20h00 and explore the park for approximately three hours listening to the bush come alive with a cacophony of night sounds.
Available at an additional cost.
Stroll through ancient forests on a treetop canopy tour and marvel at the lush expanse on the viewing decks suspended above the forest floor.
Available at an additional cost.
With a dedicated game ranger and tracker, as well as a private game drive vehicle, guests have the luxury of tailor-making their own safari experience; choosing their own game drive times and spending as much time as they want at sightings.
Available at an additional cost.
Pamper yourself with a soul-soothing wellness treatment in our massage sala. Therapies are performed using Healing Earth products, made from all-natural ingredients.
Available at an additional cost.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 9
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Cycling, Flora, Hiking, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge | Karatu
Perched on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater,andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge comprises three separate camps totalling just 30 suites. Each stilted, handcrafted mud and thatch suite is adorned with antiques, chandeliers and elegant African treasures and floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the magnificent Crater below. Ensuite bathrooms feature spacious showers and chandelier-lit bathtubs. A personal butler discretely caters for each guest’s every need, bringing tea in bed, stoking fireplaces and drawing luxurious bubble baths. Frequently described as Maasai meets Versailles, each camp has its own guest sitting and dining areas, as well as viewing decks. The domed dining room, with its fireplace, crystal, silver and massive wooden platters, turns every meal into a special occasion.
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andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Three separate and intimate camps totalling just 30 suites are reminiscent of a bygone era. Steeped in romance, each stilted, handcrafted mud and thatch suite is adorned with graceful antiques, grand chandeliers and elegant African treasures. The bedroom, sitting room and ensuite bathroom boast floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the magnificent Crater below. Beaded chandeliers hang above large gilt mirrors, while antiques, billowing raw silk curtains and leather-backed chairs blend harmoniously with African art elements. Ensuite bathrooms with a dramatic centrepiece of red roses feature spacious showers and chandelier-lit bathtubs. Personal butler discretely cater for each guest’s every need, bringing tea in bed, stoking fireplaces and drawing luxurious bubble baths.
Families, or groups, will love the family suite at andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. Two suites are conveniently interlinked via a closed walkway, which allows access between the suites, while maintaining complete privacy. The bedrooms, sitting rooms and ensuite bathrooms of the suites boast floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the magnificent Crater below. The family suite can accommodate two adults and two children.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Communal Dining, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Available), Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours)
Activities on Site
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Gourmet Picnic, Massages, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Big 5, Bird Watching, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Safaris
As andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is situated in the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, game drives take a significant amount of time to reach the crater’s floor and return to the lodge. This means that you will most likely be offered the choice of one morning or afternoon game drive per day. You will descend into the crater through a lush highland forest, with magnificent birdlife to be spotted among the different tree species. Once on the grassy crater floor, you may discover a large variety of grazing herbivores, as well as the predators that are attracted by this abundant supply of prey. Depending on the time of year, you may see huge flocks of pink flamingo around the shores of the shallow Lake Magadi, while the surrounding swamp is inhabited by hippo. While the Ngorongoro Crater boasts an incredible abundance of wildlife, you will most likely also encounter a great number of other vehicles during the high season, especially at high interest sightings. On the other hand, the rainy season is much quieter, allowing for a far more private game drive. Safari vehicles are closed, with glass windows and a pop-up roof. Off-road driving is not permitted.
Explore the breathtaking surrounds of the archaeological site of Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of mankind, best known as home of the earliest remains of homo sapiens, discovered by Mary Leaky. Move on to crescent-shaped volcanic ash dunes knows as Shifting Sands, which slowly creep across the desert floor in response to prevailing winds.
Additional costs apply
After your scenic descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, enjoy a tasty hot lunch served in breathtaking surroundings at a private picnic spot on the Crater floor. Personalised butler service combines with breathtaking surroundings in the midst of the wildlife action.
Minimum 10 guests. Minimum one months notice required.
Weather dependant and subject to availability of picnic site. Excludes Crater fees.
Additional costs apply
The dining area is magically transformed into an elegant banquet fit for a king and queen. The long, chandelier-lit dining table, adorned with white linen, candles and bouquets of roses, is surrounded by a carpet of brightly coloured rose petals. This is the height of elegance and romance. At each guest’s place setting, a single rose sits on top of a beautifully presented menu card. A sumptuous meal, prepared by expert chefs, is then served by attentive butlers and includes a glass of French champagne.
Minimum 24 guests. Two weeks notice period.
Additional costs apply
Make a toast to the setting sun with a refreshing sundowner cocktail at Gorgor (walking distance from the lodge), on the rim of the Crater. You will also be accompanied by 20 Maasai warriors who will serenade you with their traditional chants and songs. Expect unforgettable views and exceptional photographic opportunities.
Minimum 6 guests; maximum 20. One month’s notice required. Weather dependant.
Additional costs apply
Experiencing the rhythm of African music is one of the most unforgettable experiences. This group of local drummers provides great entertainment to guests, whilst also sharing their unique culture. The traditional music of Tanzanian cultures is given its melodic drive by a marimba (also called a mbira), a type of instrument that is unique to Africa. Weather dependent and exclusivity cannot be guaranteed. Performance takes place on the lawn in front of lodge. Minimum one months notice required.
Available at an additional charge.
From the beautiful forests that surround the Empakaai Crater walls to impressive strangler figs and fantastic birdlife, this energetic full day hiking adventure promises guests an up close experience with nature.
Highlights:
• Explore the Empakaai Crater floor and the water’s edge
• Birdwatcher’s paradise
• Potential sightings of barred tailed trogon, grey headed negro finch, greater and lesser flamingo, steppe eagles and crowned eagles
Maximum 6 guests. The walk into and out of the crater is on a steep grade and at a high altitude and therefore is suitable for relatively fit and agile individuals. Full day hiking adventure.
Additional costs apply
A panoramic half day walk through Maasai villages and open grazing land that allows guests to enjoy the culture and lifestyle of the Maasai. Along with authentic culture, this walk also offers spectacular views of Lake Eyasi.
Highlights:
• The inspiring Africa Foundation Mokilail School project can be visited en route
• The walk can be tailored to finish at a viewing point overlooking Lake Eyasi - perfect for sundowners
• A unique opportunity to interact with the Maasai
Maximum 6 guests. Half day panoramic walking route.
Additional costs apply
This popular late afternoon walk along the western rim of the Ngorongoro Crater allows guests to experience various natural habitats, including the acacia woodland, thick lush forests and open grasslands.
Highlights:
• Excellent birding route with sightings of golden winged sunbirds, African cytrill, white eyed slaty flycatcher and mountain buzzard
• The only place in the area to see Schalow’s wheatear and mountain white-eye
• A chance to see the Maasai and their cattle en route
Maximum 6 guests. Cannot be pre-booked.
Available at an additional charge
Beautifully romantic and exclusive, a private dinner in the lodge’s wine store is perfect for an evening spent with a loved one or as a more intimate activity to spend with friends and family. Tuck into a delectable menu in the beautiful surrounds of the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s wine store. This dinner includes a small bottle of French champagne as well as a bottle of wine, of your choice, for your special evening.
Minimum 2 guests; maximum 6.
Additional costs apply
After an adventure-filled day of game viewing, enjoy an unforgettable pre-dinner drink in front of the lodge, accompanied by the beautiful traditional singing and chanting of 20 Maasai warriors. This cultural activity is perfect for groups or families.
2 weeks’ notice required.
Additional costs apply
Perfect for celebrating a special occasion or even just to toast an incredible safari, this activity offers the opportunity to indulge in a decadent champagne tasting in andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s beautiful wine store. Sip on a delightful French champagne and compare it with a renowned South African Methode Cap Classique and sparkling wines. This activity also includes delicious finger snacks.
Additional costs apply
Exceptional for the epicurean, this Pairing Dinner activity will allow you to enjoy a private evening that includes a mouth-watering five course dinner menu in the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s beautiful wine store. Each course will be accompanied with one of the lodge’s exclusive wines from the cellar.
Additional costs apply
Beautifully romantic and exclusive, a private dinner in the lodge’s wine store is perfect for an evening spent with a loved one or as a more intimate activity to spend with friends and family. Tuck into a delectable menu in the beautiful surrounds of the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s wine store. This dinner includes a small bottle of French champagne as well as a bottle of wine, of your choice, for your special evening.
Additional costs apply
A fascinating cultural highlight now being offered to guests visiting andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is a full-day, off-the-beaten-track adventure with the Hadzabe people. These ancient hunter-gatherers inhabit the land near Lake Eyasi, and their traditional unchanged way of life and obvious harmony with the earth are spellbinding. Accompanied throughout by an andBeyond ranger, guests have the opportunity to engage with the bushmen and learn all about their time-honoured hunting techniques, survival skills, food preparation and cultural norms. A veritable step back in time, this is an undeniably authentic cultural journey into rural Tanzania that reveals the untold world of these charismatic people. This adventure must be pre-booked and is not suitable for children under 12 years of age.
With a dedicated game ranger and tracker, as well as a private game drive vehicle, guests have the luxury of tailor-making their own safari experience; choosing their own game drive times and spending as much time as they want at sightings.
andBeyond’s WILDchild programme, designed especially for children visiting our safari lodges and camps in Africa, is filled with fun, interactive activities that offer opportunities to learn and discover new experiences and cultures. Deeply rooted in the love for the African bush, it not only creates a series of unforgettable moments for the whole family but forges strong bonds between our young guests, our planet and its people.
Visit a Maasai Village and immerse yourself into the local culture. Learn how to make fire the traditional way, get invited into a Maasai manyatta (home) and visit the Maasai school for the younger children.
Be moved by a sensational performance of traditional music, singing and dancing at andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. Tuck into a selection of mouth-watering snacks and savour refreshing pre-dinner drinks while a group of 20 Maasai warriors, in full traditional dress, perform a series of stirring songs; with the spectacular view the Crater as your backdrop. Afterwards, enjoy a toe-tapping, rhythmical performance as African drummers take over and thrill with their expressive beats, dance moves and acrobatic feats.
Enjoy half a day with the KopeLion team and discover how these dedicated conservationists are fostering lion-people coexistence within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA). Working closely with local communities, they are creating a sustainable ‘corridor of tolerance’ that will re-connect the divided Crater and Serengeti lion sub-populations, ensuring their long-term survival. This insightful experience will give you the opportunity to understand the challenges and complexities of wildlife and human coexistence.
Accompanied by a KopeLion team member, you’ll be driven through Maasai villages, and a diversity of habitats, from the lush Crater rim, through sparse grasslands, and into a beautiful secluded forest spot. Here you’ll meet one of the KopeLion ‘Ilchokuti’ (lion guardians) who will talk about his work that entails both working with the local communities, and protecting lions.
Unwind after a thrilling day of game viewing with a bottle of fine wine and share some time with the KopeLion conservationists. This intimate setting lends itself perfectly to an interactive presentation by a member of the KopeLion team, followed by an exchange of questions and answers about the invaluable work they are doing to eliminate human-lion conflict along a ‘corridor of tolerance’ linking the Crater to the Serengeti. This is a perfect opportunity to get a full understanding of the work they are doing, and their commitment to a sustainable solution
Tonight, your dinner will be hosted by the lodge’s General Manager who will offer more insight about andBeyond's philanthropic investments.
You are required to create a personal affirmation to reclaim an unconditional acceptance and love for yourself and reconnect with your soul to release all negative energy from deep within. A unique blend of
aromatherapy and plant oils chosen specifically by you, combining deep tissue massage techniques to bring relaxation to tired, aching muscles allowing the body and soul to return to perfect equilibrium. Choose from a blend of aromatherapy oils to either destress, hydrate, relax or detox.
Full body: 90 min
Back and Neck only: 30 mi
African Shea Butter has been long hailed for its powerful healing and nourishing effects. Relaxing nourishing and energizing this full body massage targets specific areas or tension and muscular discomfort employing deep tissue techniques where pain is dramatically alleviated.
Full Body and Scalp 75min
Back, Neck and Scalp 45min
Re-awaken your Soul with a combination of powerful African aromatherapy oils and botanical body balms combining traditional African Calabash and Bamboo tools with human touch and rhythmic movement in this indulgent ritual, the ultimate source of relaxation to bring balance to your mind, body and soul in the heart of Africa, the cradle of mankind, through touch and vibrational sound therapy using ancient sound tools and techniques.
Choose African Potato for its Ancient Healing powers, Marula Neroli for a Sensory Indulgence, Kalahari Melon for its Hydrating Properties, Mongongo Nut to Detox or Cinnamon and Orange to Firm and Tone
Full body and Scalp: 90min
Back and Scalp: 60min
Re-awaken your senses through gentle exfoliation and envelope your body with inspirational blends of natural African essential oils and botanicals. We start the treatment with a dry polish followed by a full body polish to alleviate tension and renew skin. We then do the wrap and an indulgent full body massage using our powerful collection of indigenous African oils and balms.
Choose African Potato for its Ancient Healing powers, Marula Neroli for a Sensory Indulgence, Kalahari Melon for its Hydrating Properties, Mongongo Nut to Detox or Cinnamon & Orange to Firm and Tone
90min
Maasai Celebration Journey
Healing Earth has embodied the vibrant fusion of colorful beadwork preserving the Maasai Culture of the past, present and future within the Maasai Celebration Journey.
Our Journey starts with a Maasai Foot Ritual, where salt crystals infused with plant extracts are used to cleanse away outside elements, ensuring a positive and continual flow of energy within the client-therapist Journey.
The journey continues with a beautiful body cleanse, using a refreshing Healing Earth Tanga-Orange Polish mixed with indigenous oil extracts to thoroughly cleanse the skin. A delightful, relaxation massage therapy follows with our Maasai Body Butter, enriched with African Shea Butter, Coconut Oil and a rich spice blend that leaves your body, mind and soul renewed and invigorated.
To end your Journey, we call on the Rain with our Ancient Maasai Thank You Celebration to signify the end of our signature therapy and as symbolism of the Maasai Culture where rain is symbolic as an essential life giving force of new beginnings, prosperity and rejuvenation.
Clients embrace the Maasai World and is gifted with a Jewel of Maasai beadwork which they intuitively choose thereby holding a lasting memory and deep-rooted connection with the African Soil and its people.
90mins
Melt away stress and rejuvenate your tired legs with this foot treatment which will leave your feet feeling hydrated, softened and silky smooth, ready to conquer the African bush. Your feet is soaked in an African Joy energizing salt soak, scrubbed with rejuvenating peppermint and eucalyptus scrub and embalmed in African Shea Butter. Relax as you receive a shoulder and scalp massage and finish the treatment with a cooling foot gel to put the final spring in your step
30min
60min
The ultimate hand ritual. Your hands are polished with a pure Peppermint and Aloe Vera polish and cuticles restored with indigenous healing oils. Your hands are then embalmed with African Shea Butter. Relax as you receive a shoulder and scalp massage and finish the treatment with a nourishing Pinotage hand oil massage, leaving your hands feeling soft and rejuvenated.
30min
60min
A WildChild needs pampering too
Soak those tired little feet in Healing Earth’s Lavender and Jasmine bubble bath, followed by a Mango Orange scrub, toe nail grooming and mini foot tickle and rub. To recharge your energy a 15min back, neck and shoulder massage with pure Aloe Vera Gel will guarantee to send our budding rangers off on their next adventure in the African Bush.
Treatment 30min
Your Stay
2 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 30
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas | Southern Serengeti
Set in Tanzania’s magnificent Serengeti National Park, the luxurious tented camps of ‘&Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas’ move around the park year-round, attempting to anticipate the movements of the Great Migration. These mobile camps are entirely intimate and exclusive, featuring spacious safari tents, each with a double bed, ensuite bathroom and separate w.c, as well as his and hers al fresco bucket showers. Redolent of classic safari style, custom-made Indian rugs, crisp linens, sparkling crystal and polished brass lend flair to the simplicity of camping. Following a recent revamp, the camp now boasts even more spacious tents. With an additional two metres in length, each tent now features an indoor sitting area, thus giving guests even more privacy.
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andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas
Sleeping Arrangement Facilities
Bath Towels, Bed Linen, En-suite Bathroom, Family Safari Tent, Mosquito Netting, Oil/Paraffin Lamps
At andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas game drives are tailored to suit your preference, with a choice between shorter, twice-daily drives or one long all-day game drive with a stop for a picnic lunch. The annual movements of the camps are carefully planned to anticipate the progress of the Great Migration, so you should not have to travel too far to see the vast herds. However, if the Migration has moved off or the dramatic river crossings are in progress, you may choose to spend more time on the vehicle in order to maximise your chances of seeing this incredible phenomenon. When the Migration herds are not within easy reach, the camps remain in some of the most remote and beautiful corners of the Serengeti, with game drives setting off in search of the exceptional resident game. This will allow for some magnificent, private game viewing, while there may be significantly more vehicles present during the Migration months, particularly at river crossings. As you may be spending most of the day on the move, our safari vehicles are closed, with roll-down canvas windows and pop-top roofs. Game drives are conducted in the Serengeti National Park, so off-roading and night drives are not permitted.
View the Serengeti from above with this truly spectacular Hot Air Ballooning experience. Marvel at the views and wildlife from above as you enjoy this experience of a lifetime that will truly be with you forever. It is a rare and precious adventure never to be forgotten.
Only when in the Seronera / Ndutu / Grumeti / Kogatende regions.
Excluding any applicable park fees.
Additional costs apply.
This full-day trip to the shores of Lake Victoria promises a combination of wildlife adventures, sightseeing, fishing thrills and cultural insight. A morning game drives through the Serengeti takes guests to the park gate. From here, it is a 20-minute drive to the lake shore, with the option to stop and learn about the work of the &Beyond Foundation at Lukungu Primary School. On arrival at Lake Victoria, guests can choose to set off on a fishing safari excursion in a traditional canoe, pay a visit to the traditional doctor, clap along to the rhythm as the villagers perform a local dance or simply admire the magnificent landscapes. A picnic lunch is served on the lake shore before guests set off on their return journey. Minimum of 2 guests and minimum one months notice required. (Only when in the Grumeti region)
Additional costs apply.
Explore the breathtaking surrounds of the archaeological site of Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of mankind, best known as home of the earliest remains of homo sapiens, discovered by Mary Leaky. Move on to crescent-shaped volcanic ash dunes knows as Shifting Sands, which slowly creep across the desert floor in response to prevailing winds.
Please note that a private vehicle must be booked for this adventure. (Only when in the Ndutu region)
Additional costs apply
With a dedicated game ranger and tracker, as well as a private game drive vehicle, guests have the luxury of tailor-making their own safari experience; choosing their own game drive times and spending as much time as they want at sightings.
Your journey will be pleasantly interrupted by the guide stopping to explain the Maasai’s medicinal and cooking uses of the indigenous vegetation which you pass along the way. Once you reach the village, you will be ushered into a Boma, which is a typical Maasai enclosure comprising of huts fashioned from mud and cow dung. You will be given the opportunity to meet the families, learn about their customs and beliefs and even ask them questions, which will be translated by your guide. If you are keen, you can also make a stop at the resident clinic and the local village school — it promises to be an enlightening cultural outing.
The camp lends itself to family travel in the form of two spacious safari Tents with inter-leading passage that make up a Family Tent. Each tent has its own ensuite bathroom and a private veranda and seating area.
Two private camps feature luxurious ensuite safari tents entirely intimate and exclusive, each with a double bed, ensuite bathroom and separate w.c, as well as an indoor sitting area, personal bar and his and hers al fresco bucket showers. Redolent of classic safari style, custom-made rugs, crisp linens, sparkling crystal and polished brass lend flair to the simplicity of camping.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Mobile Safari
Spoken Languages: English
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Star Gazing, Wildlife
andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge | Mnemba Island
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring just 12 rustically chic beachside Bandas, including one Family Banda, for only 26 guests (and the dedicated staff caring for them) connected to the breathtaking Mnemba Atoll.
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andBeyond Mnemba Island Lodge
&BEYOND Mnemba Island offers 11 rustic palm-frond Bandas tucked into a tropical forest fringed by a white coral sand beach. Relax and unwind on your own stretch of beachfront.
Mirroring the spiralling form of the nautilus seashell, each Banda enthuses tranquillity. Opalescent colours with dusty pink hues are elegantly framed, paying homage to the ocean’s precious coral. Cultural traditions infuse understated luxury, with locally sourced brass, marble, ceramics, and Omani antiques, creating a vibrant space immersed in natural elegance.
Each Banda also has its own private Beach Lounge, complete with a comfortable day bed, sun loungers and al fresco shower.
*Maximum two guests per Banda
Alongside the comforts and elegance of a regular Banda at &BEYOND Mnemba Island, the island’s exclusive Family Banda boasts an additional smaller ensuite room perfect for children. Curated as the ideal space for an unforgettable family island escape, this spacious haven offers the perfect balance between shared bonding moments and essential privacy.
Mirroring the spiralling form of the nautilus seashell, the Family Banda enthuses tranquillity. Opalescent colours with dusty pink hues are elegantly framed, paying homage to the ocean’s precious coral. Cultural traditions infuse understated luxury, with locally sourced brass, marble, ceramics, and Omani antiques, creating a vibrant space immersed in natural elegance.
The Family Banda also has its own private stretch of beachside and Beach Lounge, which comes complete with a comfortable day bed, sun loungers and al fresco shower.
*Maximum two adults and two children per Family Banda
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Restaurant, Spa
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Detached Private Bathroom, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Safe, Sala, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Available Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities, Foreign Exchange, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours)
Activities on Site
Beach Drop Off, Bird Watching, Boating, Catch-and-release Fishing, Fine Dining, Fishing, Garden Tours, High Tea, Kayaking, Massages, Sailing, Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Snorkelling, Turtle Tracking, Walks (Guided), Walks (Self Guided), Whale Watching, Wildlife Tours
Activities Nearby
Animal Encounters, Art Galleries, Beach, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Boating, Canoeing, Catch-and-release Fishing, Child Friendly Activities, Cooking Courses, Cultural Tours, Deep Sea Fishing, Fine Dining, Fishing, Fly Fishing, General Sightseeing, Historical Tours, Kayaking / Paddling, Marine Adventures, Marine Tidal Pool, Massages, Natural History Tours, Sailing, Scuba Diving, Sea Kayaking, Snorkeling, Turtle Tracking, Walks (Self Guided), Whale Watching, Wildlife Tours, Windsurfing
Armed with a snorkel, mask, and fins, step directly from your Banda into the ocean to explore the vibrant coral reefs encircling the island. With the added option of full-face masks, you can fully immerse yourself in this underwater world, taking your snorkelling fishing experience to new depths.
Catering for every diver, from novice to experienced, Mnemba Island’s dive sites vary in topography, substrate and marine life, making for an exclusive and varied underwater adventure like no other.
With most dive sites a short 10 to 20-minute boat ride from the island – a few of which can even be dived directly from shore; our PADI-certified dive masters and instructors know the reefs around Mnemba Island intimately and take divers to sites best suited to their specific interests. For non-divers, an introductory PADI Discover Scuba Diving course is available, providing the incredible opportunity to see the vast majority of what the islet has to offer in the first 12 m (39 ft) of water. Other PADI-certified experiences and courses for divers from ages eight and up are also on offer.
The Dive Centres at Mnemba Island offers a full range of PADI-accredited courses for those looking to advance their diving qualifications.
PADI BUBBLEMAKER & DISCOVER SCUBA
This introductory diving course is perfect for little ones or adults who are keen to explore the fascinating underwater world of diving, facilitated by experienced, multilingual professionals.
MANDATORY REFRESHER DIVER COURSE
This course is mandatory for any diver with less than 25 dives, who has not logged a dive in the last six-months, or any diver with 26 – 100 dives, who has not logged a dive in the last year (12-months).
PADI OPEN WATER DIVER COURSE
Learn to scuba dive independently in buddy teams to a depth of 18 m (59 ft). This four-dive course takes three to four days, where upon conclusion, guests will receive a lifetime global certification.
PADI ADVANCED OPEN WATER DIVER COURSE
This dive course only applies to already certified Open Water divers. After successfully completing five dives, the course will certify divers to dive down to a maximum depth of 30 m (98 ft).
SINGLE TRAINING DIVE & ADVENTURE TEST
This is ideal for those who would like to try specialised dives, such as deep dives and drift dives. This course will be credited towards your Adventure Diver or Advanced Open Water diver certification.
Explore the warm Indian Ocean waves in utter tranquility in a tandem deep-sea glassbottom kayak. Ask one of Mnemba’s Dive Instructors for a quick tutorial session or set off with your partner on the quiet waters protected by the island’s surrounding reefs. Paddle along the shoreline, admiring its shifting features, or venture farther into the ocean's depths in hopes of encountering dolphins or sea turtles. Combine exercise with underwater marvels, offering a unique perspective of the island.
Experience an exhilarating aqua tic adventure aboard an inflatable stand-up paddle board (SUP).
Glide gracefully on tranquil waters as you master the art of balance and exploration. Whether you're a beginner seeking leisure or an enthusiast craving a workout, SUPing offers a unique perspective and connection to the sea. Perfect for the calm waters off Mnemba Island, this activity immerses you in your surroundings, providing exceptional views of the ocean waters and the Mnemba horizon.
Channel your energy, balance your chakras, and increase your self-awareness against the backdrop of
the pristine ocean during a yoga class. Skillfully adapted to accommodate all levels of experience, daily group yoga classes can be enjoyed in the Wellness Banda on the yoga deck, along with other restorative healing sessions such as singing bowl meditation.
*Private yoga sessions can be arranged at an additional cost.
From daily yoga classes and sound bath therapy to specialised alternative therapeutic methods and meditative practices, Mnemba Island seeks to provide a holistic healing experience. Using only 100% natural Healing Earth products, pamper yourself with a soul-soothing massage in the Wellness Banda or book a private in-room wellness treatment in the comfort of your Beach Banda.
Give in to the lure of total isolation and pretend that you are marooned on a deserted island, albeit one where your personal butler is perpetually on hand to cater to your every desire! You may catch a fleeting glimpse of your fellow guests as you lounge in the tropical sunshine in your private beach sala or take a leisurely walk around the island. But you can also choose to make the most of your solitude with a private dinner in a secluded forest clearing or enjoy the light-hearted intimacy of a sandcastle dinner set to the sound of the waves gently sighing on the shore.
Families and groups will fall in love with the tranquility of the island. We will only accommodate a maximum of two children under 12-years at Mnemba Island at any given time. Travel to Zanzibar is recommended for children eight-years or older.
ACTIVITIES
Children visiting the lodge can take advantage of the fun-filled and interactive WILDchild programme thatoffers various activities such as:
• Morning walks with turtle monitors to observe turtle nests
• Assist with replanting trees in the island indigenous tree nursery, learning about the various vegetation types that grow in and around the island
• Join the lodge chefs to welcome the local fishermen onshore and check where the catch-of-the day is on the Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI) List
• Assist the Community and Conservation (CNC) Rangers with building coral bases to plant coral
• Learn about the incredible impact initiatives in and around the Mnemba Atoll in the Ocean Without Border’s (OWB) interactive centre
• Get involved in the dive centres helping the OWB staff
• Go snorkelling along the coral reef
• Help in the OWB staff input new and exciting sightings in the Beyond Sightings platform, while learning about the various sea creatures
• Go on beach and nature walks around the island
• Hand-line fishing from a dhow or the beach
• Enjoy sea kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding
• Bake turtle biscuits with the lodge chef
CHILDMINDING
While we don’t have trained childminders, we can offer the services of certain staff members who are wonderful with children. This will be at an additional cost.
Whether you're sailing through calm waters or tackling a bit of surf, Hobie provides an range of adventures for those keen to explore the warm waters surrounding the island.
SEA KAYAKING – HOBIE MIRAGE TANDEM ISLAND KAYAK
Offering a tandem seating arrangement, allowing for two paddlers to share the fun, this unique kayak is designed with stability and ease of use in mind. Ideal for both beginner and experienced kayakers, its sleek design and pedal powered system makes paddling effortless. Its versatile sail also enables kayakers to harness the power of the wind for a more leisurely journey.
SAILING – HOBIE 14 RACE CATAMARAN
An exciting and accessible sailing experience for everyone, with its sleek and aerodynamic design, this catamaran is built for speed. Its lightweight construction, simple rigging system and responsive nature, featuring two hulls connected by a trampoline, allows it to glide effortlessly over the water.
PEDAL BOARDING – HOBIE ECLIPSE MIRACLE PEDAL BOARD
Combing the fun of paddle boarding with the ease of pedalling, pedal boarding offers a new way to traverse the ocean. Standing on a stable platform, using your legs to pedal instead of your arms to paddle (like riding a bike on water), the board’s sturdy structure and user-friendly handlebars for balance and steering, makes pedal boarding easy for everyone for enjoy.
Enjoy the unforgettable experience of watching green turtle hatchlings as they find their way out of their sandy nests and crawl to the ocean.
This excursion begins with guests meeting for sundowners and an introduction to nesting, tag data, weather and the challenging factors hatchlings face. We discuss why &Beyond nurtures these hatchlings and how we help to deter predators, gather data to observe how effective &Beyond Mnemba Island is as a nesting site and how we allow them a more natural start to their journey.
Only one in 1 000 make it to adulthood and it takes roughly 20 years or more before they reach sexual maturity and can start reproducing.
Learn about turtle etiquette, the sensitive ways the turtles are approached, and the conservation aspect: it has taken two decades of dedicated research and monitoring to make this conservation experience possible.
Hatching is a year-round possibility that generally peaks between February and March; however, as hatchings cannot be guaranteed, this experience is not available to pre-book.
Private, personal and participative; this half-day experience offers you the opportunity to explore local village life beyond the crowds on Zanzibar Island and interact with transformative education* and healthcare community projects. You will be hosted by Wild Impact, &Beyond’s long-term community and conservation development partner; for over 25 years &Beyond and Wild Impact (formerly Africa Foundation) have worked together with Zanzibari partner communities and other stakeholders on projects supporting education, healthcare, enterprise development and marine conservation.
This one-to-two-hour interactive island experience promises a fascinating glimpse into significant conservation efforts on &Beyond Mnemba Island and the behind-the-scenes workings that come with it. You’ll witness the dedication of the marine rangers and staff members, gaining an insight into the island’s delicate ecosystem. This land-based island experience is ideal for non-divers and must be booked in advance (can be booked once on the island). Subject to availability of the Oceans Without Borders (OWB) and marine ranger teams and weather dependent.
Imagine helping to build a living masterpiece that thrives beneath the ocean’s surface. On this interactive half-day experience, you’ll play a pivotal role in enriching the underwater world around Mnemba Island through the creation of your own unique coral frame and nurturing its growth. It’s important to be aware of the challenges facing coral reefs. By participating in this experience, you’re not just helping to restore the reefs around the island; you’re gaining a deeper understanding of the threats these delicate ecosystems face and the ongoing efforts to protect them.
*All proceeds go toward Wild Impact OWB programme
Your Stay
3 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
Fast Facts
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 12
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Sports, Star Gazing, Watersports, Wildlife, Wine
