Bougainvillea Safari Lodge is a welcoming mid-range lodge set amidst beautifully landscaped tropical gardens on the outskirts of Karatu town in Tanzania, positioned perfectly midway between Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. The lodge is about 13 km from Ngorongoro Conservation Area Lodoare gate and 20 km from Lake Manyara, making it an excellent base for day trips into Manyara, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro.
Rooms
The lodge features 32 fully furnished, self-contained cottages (originally 24, with expansions) built in a tropical garden around the swimming pool. Each cozy cottage has mosquito-netted king or twin beds, dressing area, cozy fireplace (important because it cools down nicely at night), large bathroom with shower, and a spacious veranda from which to enjoy views of lush tropical gardens and the pool. Triples are possible with prior notice, and two cottages can be used as family suites with connecting rooms, perfect for those traveling with children.
General facilities
The large common area building houses reception, lounge, bar, gift shop/curio shop, and three dining rooms. The restaurant serves family favorites and new recipes created by Chef Reggie Bayo, an executive chef with years of experience whose cuisine is considered legendary on the northern safari circuit. Meals are served family style, with special dietary requirements met, and private dining can be arranged in the dining bandas just off the main dining room. They also prepare picnic breakfast and lunch for guests heading to Ngorongoro Crater or Lake Manyara.
Recreational facilities
Recreational facilities include a swimming pool sitting in the center of the property surrounded by cottages and gardens, where guests can relax after long safari days. Therapeutic massages are offered adjacent to the pool bar to work out kinks after a day on the safari circuit. The lodge blends roughly cut stone with wood and terracotta flooring, giving it a decidedly rustic quality with fine touches like intricate lattice-like bamboo ceilings and lush bougainvillea blooms that decorate the property.
Activities
Activities include nature walks showing beautiful flowers, coffee farms, and local flora (30 minutes to 3 hours), hiking in Ngorongoro Conservation Area ending at a waterfall, bird watching with hundreds of species ranging from waterfowl at Lake Manyara to birds nesting in Ngorongoro hills, and cultural excursions to the Iraqw tribal town and local village, plus visits to Hadzabe and Watoga hunter-gatherer tribes at Lake Eyasi. Guests can easily walk from the lodge into Karatu town to experience a bustling African community.
About
The lodge offers excellent value with cozy lodging, top-notch cuisine, and welcoming service at an affordable price. Known for its cozy atmosphere, generous Tanzanian hospitality, and authentic East African charm, it delivers a homelike environment that blends comfort with adventure. The whole area is carefully designed with lush green gardens and beautiful flora frequently visited by butterflies and birds, creating a peaceful retreat for travelers exploring the Northern Safari Circuit.
Destination
Tanzania Safaris
Style
Hotel
