How does Plantation Lodge compare to other lodges in the Ngorongoro Crater area?
Plantation Lodge sits in that sweet spot between authentic charm and comfortable luxury. It's not as ultra-high-end as some of the Ngorongoro Crater rim lodges or the exclusive mobile camps, but it's definitely a step up from basic safari accommodations.
What makes it special is the converted farmstead setting - you get genuine character with antique furnishings and local arts rather than cookie-cutter safari decor. The organic farm-to-table dining is a real highlight that sets it apart from lodges that truck in all their food.
It's perfect if you want somewhere with personality and excellent food without paying crater rim prices. The location also makes it a great base for exploring multiple parks rather than being stuck in one area.
Why we like this lodge
- We love the setting on a working coffee plantation surrounded by 10 hectares of meticulously landscaped gardens - it creates a genuinely peaceful retreat atmosphere that feels both luxurious and authentic.
- Each of the 24 rooms is individually decorated with antiques and Tanzanian arts and crafts, ensuring your accommodation has its own distinct character and charm rather than feeling like a cookie-cutter hotel room.
- The farm-to-table dining using fresh, organic produce grown on-site consistently earns rave reviews from guests who describe the four-course meals as outstanding highlights of their stay.
- The high staff-to-guest ratio creates an intimate, owner-run lodge atmosphere with warm, personalized service that makes you feel like a welcomed house guest rather than just another booking.
We Think It's Worth Noting
- The lodge sits about 15-20 minutes from the Ngorongoro Crater rim, so you'll need daily transfers to reach the main safari gates rather than stepping directly into game viewing areas.
- Wi-Fi is primarily available in the main lounge and reception areas and doesn't extend consistently to all guest rooms, so expect limited connectivity in your accommodation.
- The rustic farmstead design with stairs and uneven terrain limits accessibility for guests with mobility challenges, as wheelchair access isn't explicitly supported throughout the property.
Plantation Lodge Photos
Room Types
Plantation Lodge features 24 individually decorated rooms across six categories, from standard rooms to spacious suites and a 4-bedroom Garden House.
Each accommodation includes a private veranda or terrace overlooking the property's landscaped gardens, with rooms uniquely furnished using antiques and local Tanzanian arts and crafts.
The Honeymoon Suite stands out with its fireplace, terrace, and Jacuzzi, while family options include two-bedroom units for larger groups.
Standard Room
Located in the main building, these rooms feature convertible double beds that can be configured as twins, each uniquely decorated with antiques and Tanzanian arts and crafts.
You'll enjoy a private veranda or terrace overlooking the landscaped gardens, while a cozy fireplace adds warmth to your accommodation.
The en-suite bathroom is fitted with a naturally lit shower and bathtub, complete with bathrobes and premium toiletries.
Suite
Located in the main building, these spacious accommodations feature a separate sitting area with a fireplace, offering more room to relax than the standard rooms.
Each suite is individually named and decorated with unique antiques and local arts and crafts, creating a distinctive character.
You'll have access to a private veranda or terrace with tranquil garden views, while the en-suite bathroom includes natural lighting with both shower and bathtub facilities
Bamboo Family Unit
This two-bedroom accommodation is designed specifically for families, featuring adjoining bedrooms that share a well-appointed bathroom between them.
You'll appreciate the private veranda or terrace with beautiful garden views, while the individual décor incorporates charming antiques and local craftsmanship.
The unit provides the perfect balance of togetherness and privacy for family stays, with mosquito nets and insect-proof windows ensuring comfortable nights.
Farm House Family Suite
This expansive two-bedroom suite operates as a larger private house within the lodge grounds, offering extensive living space for families seeking extra room and privacy.
You'll have access to a generous private terrace with garden views, while the individual design features carefully selected antiques and Tanzanian arts and crafts.
The suite's spacious layout provides ample room for families to spread out and enjoy quality time together in elegant surroundings.
Garden House
This four-bedroom private house sits within the lodge grounds and provides the ultimate accommodation for large families or groups seeking complete privacy and space. You'll have exclusive use of this substantial property with beautiful garden views surrounding the house.
The spacious layout ensures everyone has comfortable sleeping arrangements while maintaining the intimate atmosphere of a private residence, complete with all the amenities expected from luxury accommodation.
Honeymoon Suite
Designed specifically for romantic getaways, this private suite offers an intimate setting within the peaceful gardens with carefully planned privacy from other accommodations. You'll enjoy the luxury of a private Jacuzzi in your en-suite bathroom, while a crackling fireplace creates the perfect ambiance for romantic evenings.
The private terrace provides a secluded outdoor space, and the suite's unique decoration with antiques and local crafts adds to the romantic atmosphere perfect for honeymooners.
Room Rates
Prices at this lodge start from $320 per adult sharing, and $160 per child sharing (ages 2-6).
Standard Room
- Per adult sharing: from $320
- Per child sharing (2-6 years): $160 (50% of adult rate)
- Per child sharing (6-16 years): $240 (75% of adult rate)
- Single room: $416-$480 (130-150% supplement)
Suite
- Per adult sharing: from $450
- Per child sharing (2-6 years): $225 (50% of adult rate)
- Per child sharing (6-16 years): $338 (75% of adult rate)
- Single room: $585-$675 (130-150% supplement)
- Family rate for 2 adults and 2 children (ages 2-6): from $1,350
Family Unit, Family Suite, Garden House, Honeymoon Suite
- Rates available upon enquiry
- Children under 2 years stay free. Children 16+ pay full adult rates.
*Rates vary by season (low, shoulder, and high season) with exact pricing available upon enquiry.
*Prices are variable and subject to change. Please contact us for the latest rates.
Activities
For those seeking adventure, you can embark on full-day game drives to Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara National Park, explore the highlands on guided walking safaris, or visit nearby villages for authentic cultural experiences.
For travellers who prefer a more relaxed pace, the lodge offers guided garden and farm walks through 10 hectares of landscaped grounds, rejuvenating spa treatments, and intimate farm tours showcasing the organic practices behind their acclaimed farm-to-table cuisine.
The signature farm-to-table dining experience truly sets this place apart, featuring fresh ingredients grown right on the property's organic coffee plantation.
The panoramic views of Ngorongoro Crater
Plantation Lodge FAQs
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What types of rooms can I choose from at Plantation Lodge?
You've got quite a few options depending on what you're looking for. There are 15 Standard Rooms that can be set up as doubles or twins, perfect if you want something comfortable without all the bells and whistles.
If you'd like a bit more space, there are 7 Suites that come with separate lounge areas where you can spread out. For families, there's a Family Unit and a Family Suite (called the Farm House) - both have two bedrooms. And if you're traveling with a bigger group, the Garden House has four bedrooms.
The real standout is the Honeymoon Suite, which comes with its own fireplace, terrace, and Jacuzzi - definitely worth it if you're celebrating something special. Every room is decorated with antiques and local Tanzanian arts and crafts, so each one feels unique.
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How much does it cost to stay at Plantation Lodge?
Plantation Lodge doesn't publish their rates online, so you'll need to contact them directly for current pricing. That said, you can expect to pay somewhere between $750 to $1000 per person per night sharing for most accommodations, with the fancier suites running up to around $1500.
The rates follow typical safari lodge pricing - you'll pay more during peak season (July through October and around Christmas/New Year), less during the shoulder months (June and November through March), and the lowest rates during the rainy season (April and May).
When you book through us, we handle all the rate negotiations and booking details for you, so you don't have to worry about contacting multiple lodges directly.
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What's included in my stay at Plantation Lodge?
Pretty much everything you need is covered. Your rate includes all your meals, park fees for safaris, guided safari activities, and drinks like local house wines, beers, soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea. They'll even do your laundry and cover the Tanzanian hotel taxes.
The main things you'll pay extra for are premium alcoholic beverages (think top-shelf spirits and imported wines) and a small government bed levy of $1.50 per person per night. But honestly, with their well-stocked wine cellar and quality house drinks, you probably won't feel like you're missing out.
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Is Wi-Fi available at the lodge?
Yes, there's Wi-Fi available in the main lounge and reception areas. So you can check emails or share photos when you're relaxing in the common spaces, though don't expect it in your room - which honestly might be a blessing when you're trying to disconnect on safari.
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Can families with children stay at Plantation Lodge?
Absolutely. Plantation Lodge welcomes families, though some operators suggest kids be at least 6 years old to really enjoy the safari experience.
The pricing is pretty family-friendly too. Kids under 2 stay free, ages 2-6 get 50% off the adult rate when sharing with parents, and ages 6-16 pay 75% of the adult rate. Once they hit 16, they're considered adults.
The Family Unit and Family Suite both have two bedrooms, so everyone gets their own space. And if you're traveling with grandparents or a bigger group, the Garden House has four bedrooms. The kids will love the organic farm aspect too - there's something magical about seeing where your dinner actually comes from.
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How do I get to Plantation Lodge?
The lodge is about 20 minutes from Lake Manyara Airport if you're flying in on a charter or scheduled flight, or about 3.5 hours from Kilimanjaro International Airport if you're coming in on an international flight.
When you book with us, all transfers are arranged and included as part of your safari package. Most guests arrive as part of a northern circuit safari, so you'll typically be driven between parks with game viewing along the way rather than just taking a direct transfer.
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What kind of safaris can I do from Plantation Lodge?
The lodge is perfectly positioned for exploring the northern circuit's big three: Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park, and Tarangire National Park. You won't have exclusive game viewing areas right at the lodge (it's not that kind of setup), but you're within easy reach of some of Tanzania's best wildlife areas.
The lodge doesn't provide guides or vehicles directly - your safari operator handles all of that. This actually works out well because you get professional guides who specialize in wildlife rather than lodge staff who might be generalists. When you book through us, we coordinate everything so your guide and vehicle are ready to go each morning.
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What's the dining like at Plantation Lodge?
The food is one of the highlights here. They run an organic farm right on the property, so much of what you're eating was growing in the ground that morning. You'll get breakfast, lunch, and four-course dinners featuring incredibly fresh, local ingredients.
They can also arrange special dining experiences in the gardens or set up a private table if you're celebrating something. The bar has a well-stocked wine cellar, and with local and international drinks included in your rate, you can try some interesting local wines and beers you might not discover otherwise.
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Is Plantation Lodge accessible for guests with mobility challenges?
Unfortunately, accessibility is quite limited. The lodge is set in a converted farmstead with steps and uneven terrain throughout the property. There aren't any specific accessibility features that we're aware of.
If someone in your group has significant mobility concerns, it's definitely worth calling ahead to discuss specific needs. The lodge might be able to suggest which rooms would work best or arrange some accommodations, but the overall setting just isn't designed for wheelchair access or limited mobility.
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