Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Location: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge sits dramatically on the western rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stone-build lodge is cloaked in indigenous vines, designed to be unseen from the crater floor 600 metres below, creating a seamless connection with the landscape. Guests benefit from uninterrupted views across the expansive crater floor, just steps from their rooms, providing perhaps one of the most iconic vantage points in East Africa.

Rooms: The lodge offers 75 rooms, including standard doubles, twins, triples and the premium Kimba Suite, arranged along two tires in a long low-rise layout that hugs the crater rim. Each room features earthy African décor styled with prehistoric cave-painting motifs, brass lamps, Maasai carvings and wildwood mirrors. All have en-suite bathrooms, private rock-enclosed balconies overlooking the crater, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee facilities and 24-hour room service. The Kimba Suite adds a separate sitting room, minibar and enhanced comfort.

Amenities: Public spaces centre around a split-level, ivy-covered dining and lounge area ideal for crater-view meals and sundowners. At its heart burns a constant fire, framed by decor inspired by the nearby Olduvai Gorge. The dining room serves breakfast and lunch buffet-style, while dinner is a set menu with salad buffet options and the possibility of arranging bush dinner at scenic viewpoints. Additional conveniences include a bar with fireplace, a curio/gift shop, TV/lounge room, conference tent, valet and babysitting services. Wi-Fi is available in public areas and many rooms.

Activities: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge offers seamless access to daily game drives into the crater, where guests descend into a rich mosaic of habitats to encounter rhino, lion, elephant and vast herds of wildebeest and zebra. The ldoge also offers guided nature walks along the crater rim, Maasai cultural experiences, cooking classes, and evenings with resident naturalists sharing insights into the ecology of the area. Bush breakfasts and themed dinners on the crater rim can also be arranged for memorable dining.

Sustainability: The lodge is built from local river stone and vines, blending into the crater rim and preserving natural sightlines from below. It operates eco-conscious systems including inverters, water recycling, and local sourcing of food and produce. Employment opportunity and community partnerships - such as tree planting project at Oloirobi Primary School and support for Maasai women artisans - are integral parts of its commitment. Waste is recycle, and the lodge supports Maasai community by selling local handicrafts.