Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

The only lodge situated within Lake Manyara National Park, Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is tucked away in the far south of the park within a forest of mahogany, wild mango and fig trees. It's far from the busy main park gate used by almost all of the park's visitors. Like its sister lodges – Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Klein's Camp and Grumeti River Camp – it offers very high-quality service, guiding and luxury.

Our view of Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge has mastered the delicate balance between the opulent and the unassuming. While it is certainly stylish and luxurious, it does not feel detached or out of place in the surrounding bush; it also manages to be very warm and welcoming. This may be in part because of the understated style, yet also a credit to the excellent team running the lodge. On our previous visits (most recently May 2011) we found the staff to be incredibly friendly, and the food and service exceptional.

It is one of only two lodges inside this national park – and its position at the other end of the park from the main entrance gate ensures that game drives from there don't see too many other vehicles. If you want a few days to take a proper look at Lake Manyara National Park, there isn't a better lodge to use as a base. Its only real down-side is a relatively high price tag.

Rooms at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Tree house