Bougainvillea Safari Lodge

We discovered Bougainvillea Safari Lodge on our last trip through Karatu. It was opened in March 2006 by a local onion farmer, and a chef, who saw potential for a simple and friendly guesthouse in Karatu, and so approached the government for a loan. Once granted, building began and the outcome is a 32-room lodge, close to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which offers comfortable but simple accommodation. It's fine for a night or two – and the chef worked at Gibb's Farm, and so has a fine command of his art!

Our view of Bougainvillea Safari Lodge

You are in the middle of a busy town, but Bougainvillea is set back off the main road – and doesn't feel at all noisy or crowded. The bungalows are comfortable and spotless and the staff are charming. Even though it was our first visit here, we left feeling as though we'd visited old friends.

If you're traveling with your own safari guide and 4WD, then this good-value lodge is incredibly convenient for visiting either Lake Manyara, or the Ngorongoro Crater.

Rooms at Bougainvillea Safari Lodge

Bungalow