Chem Chem Lodge

Chem Chem Lodge is a premium luxury eco-luxury safari retreat nestled among an oasis of palms in an unfenced private wildlife concession between the immense savannas of Tarangire National Park and the bird-rich waters of Lake Manyara in northern Tanzania. Located on the south side of Lake Manyara, just north of Tarangire National Park, the lodge sits in a mixed habitat of palm and scrub, overlooking a busy waterhole where wildlife roams freely. The property forms a vital part of the greater Tarangire and Lake Manyara ecosystems, embodying the essence of slow safari with sublime privacy and sophisticated comforts.

Rooms

The lodge consists of 8 luxurious tent suites (including one family suite comprising two tents connected by a wooden bridge, accommodating two adults and three children). Each tented suite features an elegant bedroom, reading nook, dressing room, and full bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers plus egg-shaped baths. The suites are canvas, wood and stone rooms splendidly simple with brass fans, linen sheets, vintage writing desks, air-con, coffee stations, and minibar. Décor is classically chic, safari sophisticated featuring dark wood, earthy colors, natural fibers, vintage throws, sumptuously squashy leather armchairs, and elegant artwork. Private wooden decks fringed by palm trees open onto beautiful lake views with chaise longues for ultimate "Out of Africa" moments.

Dining & Facilities

The stunning main area is safari chic with full-service gourmet restaurant serving Michelin-star quality meals at an enormous dining table, plus a lounge bar with outdoor fireplace/boma. Guests can enjoy communal or separate dining, with options for picnics, BBQs, bush meals, and romantic dinners for two in the bush. A sparkling swimming pool sits on a wooden deck with magnificent views. Facilities include a spa offering indulgent treatments, exclusive boutique for souvenirs, library, and handcrafted furniture adorned throughout spacious lodge and airy suites. The atmosphere is informal, homely, welcoming yet professional.

Activities

Adventures include game drives, birdwatching, horseback safaris, cultural tours, walking safaris, and night game drives on the lodge's private concession. The unfenced 50,000-acre reserve means guests have wonderful freedom to explore without another soul in sight, can explore by foot, on horses, or in luxury 4×4 safari vehicles. Activities emphasize walking, night drives, bush meals, and authentic cultural experiences—getting out of the vehicle to experience Africa as it should be with real freedom. Relaxing massages in the shade of baobab trees and sundowners out in the bush are highlights.

About

Chem Chem Lodge is designed for travelers seeking "slow safari"—fewer drives, more walks, wellness, and connection to landscape. It's perfect for those wanting barefoot luxury, spa experiences, conservation ethos, sophisticated comfort without being lavish, and spectacular privacy in one of Tanzania's gems. The lodge offers extremely professional operation with best guides, gourmet food, five-star service while maintaining welcoming feel. Ideal for travelers who want to get out of vehicle, experience Africa as it should be, master art of slow safari, attune to nature's rhythms, immerse in local culture, and reconnect in heart of African wilderness.