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.

Staff and game driver, Hussein, were incredible. All are extremely accommodating. They deserve the highest praise. Hussein is very knowledgeable. Location: it’s the only lodge inside the national park which allows for mostly private morning and evening game drives. The lodge is at the opposite end of the park so getting there and back to the entrance in a game drive in itself. The park itself is quite small with only one main road. Because of the dense foliage, it is more challenging than the other parks to see the animals. Seeing the “tree” lions was a highlight. The rooms are stand alone cabins built on stilts. You’re very much one with nature. We had monkeys watching us in the outdoor shower, heard elephants and lions at night. I planned this trip in a hurry. If I had done more research and had more lead time, we would have skipped Manyara and gone to Ngorongoro Crater instead which is why I am giving 4 stars. The lodge itself and the staff are excellent.

Located in Lake Manyara National Park. The safari camp is very nice. The rooms are comfortable and the rooms are are well maintained. The common area includes indoor and outdoor dining and a nice lounge. The staff are very welcoming. Overall, the Tree Lodge was amazing. Our guide/biologist was Henry from The Wild Source. Henry is a great guide, very friendly and very professional. See Video on YouTube: nwaynesworld