Tarangire Safari Lodge

Location: Tarangire Safari Lodge is perched on the edge of a dramatic escarpment inside Tanzania's Tarangire National Park, with sweeping views across the Tarangire River and the baobab-dotted plains beyond. It's one of the oldest and most iconic lodges in the park, and its location is a real standout - you can often see elephant herds and other wildlife moving through the valley from the comfort of the main terrace. Being inside the park means you're right in the action from the moment you wake up, with no need to queue at the gates for your morning game drive. The setting is not only beautiful but also rich in wildlife, especially during the dry season from June to October when animals gather around the river.

Rooms: Accommodation here comes in the form of both stone bungalows and canvas safari tents, all comfortable furnished and designed to make the most of the views. The tents are classic East African style with thatched roofs, screened windows, and shaded verandahs, while the bungalow offer a bit more solidity with thicker walls and tiled floors - ideal for those after a little extra insultation. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, solar-powered lighting, and simple but tasteful decor that keeps the focus on the natural surroundings. It's not luxury in the flashy sense, but it's honest, comfortable, and full of character - perfect for travellers who value charm and location over fuss.

Amenities: The heart of the lodge is its open-sided main area, with a lounge, bar, and dining room looking out over the valley - one of the best sundowner spots in the park. There's a swimming pool with a view, a small gift shop, and a team of friendly, long-standing staff who help create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Meals are served buffet-style and include a good variety of local and international dishes, with fresh fruit, salads, and home-baked bread often praised by guests. There's also Wi-Fi in the main areas for those who need to stay connected, though most guests are too busy watching the elephants below to bother checking their emails.

Activities: Game drives are the main activity here, with Tarangire offering some of northern Tanzania's most rewarding wildlife viewing - particularly famous for its huge elephant herds, ancient baobabs, and resident predators. Drives are typically done with your own guide if you're on a private safari, but the lodge can also arrange shared game drives with their in-house team. Birding is excellent here, and there are also opportunities for guided walking safaris led by armed rangers (seasonal and subject to availability), which offer a different perspective on the bush. Being inside the park gives you the advantage of early starts and lingering sunsets, with the option to relax between drives and enjoy the wildlife from camp.

Sustainability: As a family-run property with deep roots in the region, Tarangire Safari Lodge has a long-standing commitment to responsible tourism. The lodge is largely solar-powered, with careful management of water and waste to reduce its environmental impact. Local staff are at the core of the operation, many of whom have been with the lodge for years - reflecting a commitment to long-term, meaningful employment. The lodge also supports local schools and community initiatives, helping ensure that tourism directly benefits the people living around the park. While the approach here is quietly effective rather than headline-grabbing, it's clear that care for both people and place runs through everything they do.