Most romantic lodges in Tanzania

Looking for romance in Tanzania?

Heather
Heather
Travel Writer
Published on
23 Feb 2018
Updated on
25 Apr 2025
The Highlands Starry Dome At Night

Whether you’re planning a Tanzania honeymoon (congratulations!), celebrating an anniversary, or simply looking for something that will tug on the heart strings the moment you arrive, then these lodges in Tanzania are for you:

The Highlands – Ngorongoro Crater

Best for: Elegant wilderness and luxurious privacy

We’ve all heard of the famous Ngorongoro Crater. Some of us can even pronounce it. Yet how many people can say they’ve sipped glasses of bubbly whilst sitting in their own private hot tub, overlooking the sweeping plains of the Serengeti, all from the volcanic slopes of the crater in question? Ngorongoro may be one of the most popular safari destinations in Tanzania, but it’s still possible to find peace and privacy at places like The Highlands. And those seeking a spot of romance won’t be disappointed either.

Location is super important when it comes to choosing a lodge, but I firmly believe the accommodation is of equal significance (or maybe even more. I have been known to travel to a country simply because I’ve seen a fabulous suite that I just have to lay my head in!). The Highlands is one of those places. Perched on the side of the Olmoti Volcano on the north side of the crater, the elegant camp has 8 fabulous contemporary domed suites with floor to ceiling bay windows and some of the best views in Tanzania. It’s a place where wilderness can be experienced without compromising on comfort, perfect for a luxury Tanzania safari.

When you manage to drag yourself away from this little pocket of African honeymoon paradise there are game drives, nature walks, crater hikes and Maasai cultural experiences on offer.

The Highlands Starry Dome At Night
The Highlands Starry Dome at night
The Highlands Honeymoon Hot Tub
The highlands honeymoon hot tub

Selous Kulinda Camp – Selous Game Reserve

Best for: Secluded riverside hideaways at the heart of nature

Romance comes in various guises. Here at Selous Kulinda Camp (formerly Selous Riverside Safari Camp) it’s all about old world charm and private riverside hideaways. Perfect for discerning honeymooners and anyone with an ounce of romance in their soul. It’s the sort of place where lovers can dream about Africa of a bygone era and feel a part of nature rather than just a passing observer.

Tucked away in dense forest on the banks of the Rufiji River, the camp has 10 enchanting tented chalets, each blending in with the surroundings. Luxuriously furnished and complete with their own en-suite bathrooms, the chalets are the ultimate essence of Africa and the ideal place to retreat after a busy day adventuring. There’s also a pool for cooling off in the hot afternoons, the views from here aren’t bad either.

The Selous Game Reserve is known for giving visitors an untouched bush experience, whether by 4x4 game drives, walking safaris or wildlife viewing from the river by boat. Come nightfall relaxation is on the cards, with sundowners on the deck overlooking the river, followed by dining under the twinkling stars. Bliss.

Selous Riverside Camp Tent
Selous Riverside camp tent
Selous Riverside Camp Tent By Night
Selous Riverside Camp tent by night

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge – Lake Manyara

Best for: Remote treehouses with all the trimmings

There’s something delightfully primal about sleeping in the trees. I guess we’re all big kids at heart, and there’s nothing wrong with that. The treehouses here however are rather more lavish than those you find at the bottom of most gardens. Lovingly nestled in the boughs of ancient mahogany trees, the suites come with everything you could ever need, whilst keeping the impact on the environment to a minimum. Pretty impressive considering just how remote this place is.

The pool is one of the better ones we’ve seen, and dining in the seductively lit boma is a real treat. Nowhere does romantic meals quite like Africa. Guests can even watch the chef prepare the dishes in the interactive kitchen. Which seems to be all the rage these days.

The variety of habitats and wildlife here is world-class, with everything from jaw-dropping Rift Valley landscapes and hot springs, to a soda lake full of flamingos and even tree-climbing lions. But don’t worry, treehouses and safari guests aren’t really their thing.

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge Balcony
Lake Manyara Tree lodge - Balcony
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge Flamingo Safari
Lake Manyara Tree lodge - Flamingo Safari

Sayari Camp – Serengeti National Park

Best for: Intimate and authentic nature immersion

Everything at Sayari Camp seems to have magnificent views overlooking the game-filled plains of the Serengeti, from the bedroom verandas and dining deck to the lounge and gorgeously appointed infinity pool. But what about from the bath? I often choose accommodation on the basis of a bathroom alone (a girl has to have her priorities, right?), and having views like this whilst soaking in the suds has got to be a winner!

Sayari has 15 tented hillside suites, inspired by the landscape of the Serengeti with earthy tones, elegant mahogany floors and a safari-chic interior design that belies the remote wilderness outside. It’s the sort of place that would be right at home on the cover of any glossy travel magazine.

The Serengeti probably needs no introduction, except to say that its fame for extraordinary wildlife viewing is well deserved. It’s the place to go to witness the great wildebeest migration as it crosses the Mara River on its never-ending cycle. As well as the usual walking safaris and game drives, there are also hot air balloon flights on offer. Could it get any more romantic?

Evenings are cooler, and the perfect excuse to relax by the fireside with a glass of whisky and a good yarn borrowed from the library. You could be forgiven for thinking you were in Scotland, just with added animals.

Sayari Camp Bedroom
Sayari Camp bedroom
Sayari Camp Bush Dining
Sayari camp bush dining

Jabali Ridge – Ruaha National Park

Best for: Exclusive wilderness with sophisticated and sustainable design

Anywhere that has a hammock is welcome to steal my heart, and the suites at Jabali Ridge prove you don’t need beaches and palm trees to offer the ultimate in laid back luxury. When it comes to lodges, Jabali is a bit different. Built high on a rocky escarpment, Jabali is rather uniquely made entirely from wood, and blends subtly with the surrounding landscape. Everything is sleek with just the right amount of rustic chic to keep pretentions at bay, whilst the infinity pool overlooking the plains is perfection itself.

Nestled away between large granite boulders, the 8 suites have superb views of the national park from every corner (there seems to be a bit of a theme with the properties here), and you don’t even need to get out of bed to enjoy them. Although we strongly advise you do, as there’s a lot more to see!

It’s not only the wildlife that is impressive here, it’s also the presence of photogenic palms and baobab trees which are dotted around the landscape, and the sense that the wilderness is exclusively yours. There’s really nowhere quite like it.

Jabali Ridge Infinity Pool
Jabalii Ridge infinity pool
Jabali Ridge Game Lunch
Lunch among the photogenic palms and baobab trees

Looking for more honeymoon inspiration? Take a look at our top 10 African honeymoon ideas to get you started or call our friendly team on 01768 603 715 who would be happy to help you arrange your dream safari honeymoon.

Enquire-Button.png#asset:116423

Speak to a Tanzania expert today

and start planning your tailor-made holiday

Call 0203 111 1315
or
Our Tanzania Experts
Ali 1

Alistair

Otti profile pic

Ottilie

Shirley Newman

What can I say….my son and myself had the most wonderful time in Kenya thanks to the first-class itinerary that Ben and Louise put together for us. We spoke with Ben many times to ensure he ‘got it right’. This was our 2nd visit to Kenya, and it certainly lived up to our expectations and memories. Throughout our time in Kenya, we saw many lions, giraffes, elephants, ostriches, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards, to name just a few. Nothing was too much trouble for all the staff; we cannot have been looked after any better. I would highly recommend Far and Wild; they are so knowledgeable and have personally visited the lodges and areas. We are already planning another visit, and we cannot wait. Since our return again Ben phoned to see how it went in addition to emails.

August, 2025
Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

July, 2024
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

June, 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at Omali lodge at Sao Tome, then on Roca Sundy, and Sunday Praia at Principe - a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. Omali is close to Sao Tome town with its colonial buildings, markets, hustle and bustle. Roca Sunday gives an old plantation experience and Sundy Praia a luxury beach experience. Very friendly (from time to time a bit slow) service, great fresh food, specifically if you like fish/seafood, vegetables and fruits (almost all sourced locally). Nice temperature between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius, nice swimming conditions. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel (and I believe are) very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

July, 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

June, 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

May, 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

April, 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

March, 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

March, 2024