Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

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  • CRATER RIM NGORONGORO
    Arusha, Tanzania
    574159
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Dr. Mitch
First Reviewer
5 out of 5
Avg. Member Rating
2
Reviews
3
Photos

Luxury Hotel with Spectacular View

  • May 2, 2009
  • Rated 4 of 5 by TravelingD from Orchard Park, New York
Luxury Hotel with Spectacular View

Made out of tens of thousands of river rocks and natural wood, the Ngorongoro Serena seems to fit well into its location on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater. At the same time, its general luxuriness, including wonderful restaurant with a diverse menu and sumptuous buffets, and well-stocked gift shop, make it seem somewhat out-of-place with its surrounding land and people. Its a contradiction one may feel during a safari in Tanzania in general, but seems more evident at the Serena.
So, it you want to be pampered and stay at a luxury hotel, this is the place for you. If you want to feel a bit more part of the local scene, while still having more than adequate accommodations, you would do well to try Gibb's Farm or Plantation Lodge. Neither is on the crater rim, but both make up for it by having wonderful gardens and other views.

From journal Safari in Northern Tanzania

Ngorongoro Serena lodge

  • September 18, 2005
  • Rated 5 of 5 by Dr. Mitch from Agoura Hills, California
A magical place that one will remember forever! Built right on the edge of the Ngorongoro crater. All rooms with cliffside view of the crater. Beautiful African motif rooms with nice sit down balconies. Dining has large glass window with views into the crater. At about 8000 feet. Cool, misty, cloud forest. I suppose one could walk around but the forest is thick and surprisingly filled with large mammals (e.g., Hyena) so probably not safe. Feels alpine. Staff nice. Manager extremely friendly. Reliable electricity, plenty of hot water. No pool, no fans (no need), does have built in room heaters. No TV. Does have internet ready computers. Nice souvenir shop. Often has evening entertainment of local Maasai dances. Food is average. This place is a must!

My ratings (1-10, 10 best):

Rooms: 8

Grounds: 9

Staff: 7

Dining/Restaurant: 6

Location: 10

From journal My Journey into East Africa

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