Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Location

Perched high upon a dramatic escarpment, this luxury lodge offers truly impressive views over Lake Manyara. Indeed, thanks to this privileged setting, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore, with safaris bringing you among leopard-dotted woodlands and forested plains host to elephant and giraffe. There’s also a human side to it all, with the lodge neighboured only by the traditional villages of the Iraqw and Sukuma peoples.

Accommodation

Taking its design notes locally, the lodge combines the sweeping, avian curves of the lake’s vibrant birdlife with the charm of traditional Masaai architecture. From the timbered reception, you’ll bridge a gurgling stream to reach your accommodation – a series of two-storey rondavels. Beautifully secluded, each is dotted along the cliff edge to make the most of those gorgeous lake views with private verandahs. And, the charm continues inside, with hand-woven rugs, colourful accents and furnishings that draw their inspiration from Maasai beadwork. For something extra special, book onto the impressively proportioned Losimingori Suite.

Dining

All swirling primary colours and textured white walls embellished with bead and leatherwork, the lodge’s delightful aesthetic continues into the dining room. Here, breakfast and lunch are presented as indulgent buffets, with the full English among the highlights. Then, for dinner, a multi-course table d’hôte menu showcases the best in produce sourced from local communities. It’s all washed down with a selection of old- and new-world wines along with the finest Tanzanian tea and coffee. There’s also the chance to take your meals out in the lamp-lit bush, with sundowner cocktails served around the campfire. For the best experience, look into a private evening.

Facilities

Along with the safari opportunities, there’s also a unique range of adventure sports on offer, too. Highlights include mountain biking through forested trails, canoeing on the lake’s bright-blue shimmer and forest walks lead by local experts. Back at base, the lodge is arranged around a spectacular horizon pool. Built right on the edge of the cliffs, it’s perfect for taking in those gorgeous lake views. It’s a sight shared by the bar and verandah – ideal for those all-important sundowners. There’s also everything from village lunches to al fresco dining on offer.