AndBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

This lodge is situated at the southern end of the Lake Manyara National Park, which makes for a long and rewarding game drive through the park from the northern Main Gate. The drive largely follows the western shore of the growing lake, and offers chance encounters of all of the big five (although we did not see leaopard), and a very rich avian and reptilian fauna. The lodge is nestled deep in the dense forest of the lake shore without any barriers to wildlife (hence the requirement for Maasai Warrior escort during the dark hours. It’s main structure is built with a two-story open front facing the fenced in open sky dining area with decor of carved wood canoes. Service is impeccable and very attentive with a private waiter/host. Abdullah, our server, having worked at the lodge fopr 27 years, was the epitomy of friendly (and funny) personal attention. The food, prepared in an open access kitchen, was delicious and expertly prepared, with access to cocktails (we were always welcomed to dinner with a frozen gin&tonic) and premium wines. On the evening of our last day, a “Sundowner” drink reception was set up on a grassy shore of Lake Manyara and we enjoyed the sunset together with other quests, serviced by bar and restaurant staff. Our “villa,” built on stilts so that we were positioned high among the trees, was very comfortable with a wrap-around deck. The ambient temperature made it comfortable to shower outdoor and the lack of solid walls (metal net frames throughout, offered an effective insect barrier). We can highly recommend this very comfortable, high-end lodge to visitors of Lake Manyara National Park.

You are in the middle of the conservation area, surrounded by animals and trees. Baboons threaten to wreak havoc with your clothes if you leave them outside to dry. The food is cooked in front of you on wonderful wood fires. The staff is super attentive, make sure to ask your butler for a frozen gin and tonic. My guide, Hussein, was knowledgeable and helpful. He took me on a night drive, and we got to see Hippos wandering around looking for food. During the day we spotted an elephant, or rather it spotted us. Then it started to follow us in our jeep. We saw monkeys, and giraffes, and baboons and more baboons. Plus a myriad of other animals. The rooms are comfortable, and the outdoor shower is super cool. Go, you will love it. It was one of my favourite places. Cozy and special.