About Kirurumu Manyara Lodge
Kirurumu Manyara Lodge (formerly Kirurumu Tented Lodge) is a simple but comfortable property which is often ...
... used as a base from which to explore both Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater with a guide. It has a spectacular location right on the edge of the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley, with picturesque views back across Lake Manyara.
Kirurumu Manyara Lodge is comfortable, friendly and unpretentious. When we were last there in February 2018, the lodge seemed to function well and the staff were available to answer any questions. It may not be the most inspiring lodge, but it's a relatively economical place to stay, and a good base to visit either Lake Manyara or Ngorongoro. The best thing about Kirurumu are undoubtedly the mesmerising views from the bar – which are simply amazing; it is worth staying here for these alone.
Our view
Kirurumu Manyara Lodge is comfortable, friendly and unpretentious. When we were last there in February 2018, the lodge seemed to function well and the staff were available to answer any questions. It may not be the most inspiring lodge, but it's a relatively economical place to stay, and a good base to visit either Lake Manyara or Ngorongoro. The best thing about Kirurumu are undoubtedly the mesmerising views from the bar – which are simply amazing; it is worth staying here for these alone.
Country manager: Tanzania
Accommodation
30 rooms
Children
Best for 8+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Mountain biking
Night drive
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Kirurumu Manyara Lodge
18 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryKirurumu Manyara Lodge: Our full report
Kirurumu Manyara Lodge (formerly Kirurumu Tented Lodge) is a simple but comfortable property which is often ...
... used as a base from which to explore both Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater with a guide. It has a spectacular location right on the edge of the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley, with picturesque views back across Lake Manyara.
The bush around the lodge has been left in its original state, so instead of manicured gardens there is native vegetation, which in turn attracts a lot of birdlife; birdsong is ever-present at Kirurumu. Many of the endemic plants have been labelled along the winding stone paths that lead between the main areas and the rooms – we really liked this touch.
Dotted across 13 acres of land, each of the 30 tented rooms at Kirurumu Manyara Lodge sits on a raised wooden deck and has a spacious bedroom, en-suite bathroom and private veranda. These rooms are simply styled and have large beds, plain but attractive furniture and makuti mats on the polished stone floors. (Click here for more info on the tented rooms at Kirurumu...)
Kirurumu Manyara Lodge also has three suites which are similar in style to the standard tented rooms, but are larger and more like tented cabins as they feel more permanent. With two bedrooms in each, they work very well for families. (Click here for more info on the suites at Kirurumu…)
The main buildings of Kirurumu Manyara Lodge are dotted in amongst the surrounding bush, connected by winding stone pathways. Simply designed, open-sided buildings, they are comfortable and modestly decorated with traditional-coloured fabrics for the soft furnishings, and a simple rustic charm. What they lack in style they make up for in their prime location and superb views.
On arrival you walk into the reception – a thatched building with russet-red stone floors. A few seats and some large potted plants furnish the wide open hallway that leads to a small shop, where you will find a good selection of general souvenirs alongside some toiletries.
Close by, but tucked into the surrounding bush, the dining room is a spacious, open-sided building under high thatch, and feels cool and comfortable. Individual tables in a variety of sizes are set with checkered maasai style tablecloths.
The best feature of Kirurumu Manyara Lodge is its bar area, which has wonderful views over the Great Rift Valley and Lake Manyara. This canvas-and-stone building is scattered with lounging chairs and has a small library. Canvas flaps roll up to create a totally open front overlooking a broad wooden deck on which you'll find directors' chairs from which to admire the breathtaking views.
Our guests staying at Kirurumu Manyara Lodge will usually be accompanied by one of our private guides who is driving them on a safari though northern Tanzania's wildlife areas. Thus activities from the lodge are usually up to you and your guide, but typically they will focus on full-day safaris with a picnic lunch. The obvious choice of destinations is either to spend the day in Lake Manyara National Park, which is about 20 minutes' drive away; or to head a further to the Ngorongoro Crater, approximately 90 minutes' drive away.
If you stay at Kirurumu for three or more nights you can easily visit both areas. Village walks and traditional lunches can be arranged at Mto Wa Mbu, a village beside Lake Manyara National Park. The lodge can also organise short botanical walks in the local area with Maasai guides. For guests who want a more relaxing option, 30 and 60 minute massages are offered for around US$30 and US$40 respectively.
Geographics
- Location
- Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- Spend two nights here if you just want to visit Lake Manyara National Park. Stay longer if you prefer not to move on a daily basis, but then spend one of your days on safari to the Ngorongoro Crater.
- Directions
- Kirurumu Manyara Lodge is approximately a two-hour drive from Arusha, 20-minutes from Lake Manyara National Park and one hour from the gate of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. After leaving the tarmac road, the last 6km to the lodge is along a bumpy track past small villages and shambas (farms).
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- The food at Kirurumu Manyara Lodge is mostly standard international- style cuisine – it's perfectly adequate. The menu is varied and the timings can be flexible around your daily activities.
In the morning, a buffet breakfast is usually served between 7.00 and 9.00am, with a variety of cereals and fresh fruit. A cooked breakfast including bacon, sausages, tomatoes and your choice of cooked eggs can be ordered.
For lunch, you can either head out with a picnic, or come back to the lodge to eat. At the lodge, a three-course lunch is usually served between 12.30 and 2pm.
Dinner is also a set three-course meal, usually served between 7.00 and 9.00pm. For the most part, the cuisine is international style, the lodge occasionally hosts a traditional Swahili night where guests can try a selection of local dishes. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Yes - on request (no extra charge).
- Drinks included
- Drinks are an additional charge; you can expect to pay around US$2 for a soft drink, US$4-$5 for a beer or glass of wine, US$10 and US$20–30 for a bottle of wine.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Kirurumu Manyara Lodge will happily welcome children of all ages.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Kirurumu does not have any age restrictions.
- Special activities & services
- There are no special activities for children.
- Equipment
- There is no special equipment for children.
- Notes
- We would recommend Kirurumu Manyara Lodge for children. It is friendly, relaxed and has two larger suites which are a good size for families. Alternatively, there is also a very generously sized family tent with two en-suite bathrooms. Parents should be aware that there is a steep cliff at the front of the lodge, which is not fenced. Although unlikely, there is also the chance that wildlife might pass through the lodge grounds, so children should be under their parent's supervision throughout their stay.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There is 24-hour electricity and there are plugs in the room for charging electrical equipment.
- Communications
- There is free WiFi in the reception area. There are plans to extend wifi connection to the bar area.
- TV & radio
- There is no TV here.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- Two bottles of water are provided per person per day. If guests need more than that it can be purchased from the bar.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Kirurumu Manyara Lodge has a first-aid kit on site and staff have first aid training. There is a doctor at a hotel situated only 15 minutes away and a small clinic in a nearby town. For more serious cases, the lodge has access to the flying doctors service.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- There are Maasai guards around the lodge during the day and at night time.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers outside the bedrooms and also in the main areas.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Mountain biking
Night drive
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- A full laundry service is available at an extra charge – from about US$1.50 per item of clothing.
- Money
- There is a safe in the reception where valuables can be stored on request.
- Accepted payment on location
- You can settle your bill in cash in Tanzanian shillings, US dollars and euros. You can also pay using Visa or MasterCard (Amex is not accepted), but there is a minimum spend of US$50 and a 7% surcharge.
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Kirurumu Manyara Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Kirurumu Manyara.
Excursions from Kirurumu Manyara
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Kirurumu Manyara. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Lake Manyara Safari
Half-day or full-day
Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park makes a great safari destination. Here, along with elephant herds and plains game, you’ll find jungle-like forests that are home to blue monkeys, a soda lake tinged pink by flamingos and some of Tanzania’s best birding.
More about Lake Manyara Safari
Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway
Usually one hour
Experience the forest of Lake Manyara National Park from a whole new perspective – high up in the trees. The first suspended walkway in Tanzania, it stretches underneath the canopy for 370m between the mahogany and fig trees, giving intrepid visitors a unique view of the surrounding flora and fauna.
More about Manyara Treetop Walk
Mto Wa Mbu Village Walk
Two to three hours
Discover the nuances of day-to-day life in the large Tanzanian village of Mto Wa Mbu with a knowledgeable local guide. This is not a village set up for tourists – Mto Wa Mbu is a real community and offers a chance to see a side of Tanzania that many visitors pass by.
More about Village WalkOther lodges in Lake Manyara National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge
Comfortable, stylish and remote, Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is one of only two places to stay inside the park, and offers excellent guiding and service.
Lake Manyara Serena
Lake Manyara Serena is a large, reasonably priced hotel perched on the lip of the Great Rift Valley with spectacular views of Lake Manyara.
Escarpment Lux Lodge
Escarpment Luxury Lodge offers stylish, modern accommodation and stunning views of Lake Manyara National Park.
Manyara Green Camp
With comfortable tents and an adventurous atmosphere, Lake Manyara Green Camp is one of two camps located inside the park.
When to go to Lake Manyara National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Kirurumu Manyara in Lake Manyara National Park
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Lake Manyara National Park in January
Lake Manyara National Park enters its short dry season in January. The tree-climbing lions, a unique attraction, are more easily spotted as vegetation thins. The groundwater forest remains lush, hosting baboon troops and blue monkeys. Birdlife is particularly interesting as resident species enter breeding plumage and migrants arrive. The alkaline lake attracts flamingos and other water birds.
Game viewing improves as animals concentrate around water sources. Night game drives reveal nocturnal animals like hippos at the Simba River pool. The Treetop Canopy Walk offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. While the southern areas of the park may still be wet, the northern sections provide better wildlife viewing. January offers great value for visitors, with quieter park conditions.
- Migratory birds present in large numbers
- Fewer visitors, more peaceful experience
- Possible to see newborn animals
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in January
Lake Manyara National Park in February
February in Lake Manyara National Park sees rising temperatures, reaching around 33°C/91°F. The short dry season continues, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing. The park's famous tree-climbing lions are more visible as they seek refuge from insects and heat in the trees. Elephant herds are frequently spotted in the savannah plains and forested areas. Game drives are highly productive, with increased chances of spotting diverse wildlife including buffaloes, wildebeests, and various antelope species.
Birdlife is particularly rewarding, with both resident and migratory species present. The alkaline lake attracts large flocks of flamingos, creating a spectacular sight.
- Excellent for bird watching, many species active
- Flamingos often visible on Lake Manyara
- Wildlife more dispersed due to water abundance
- Lower rates at lodges and camps
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in February
Lake Manyara National Park in March
March marks the beginning of the long rainy season in Lake Manyara National Park. The landscape transforms as vegetation becomes lush and green. While this can make wildlife viewing more challenging, it creates beautiful scenery. The groundwater forest is particularly vibrant during this time. The park's famous tree-climbing lions may be harder to spot but are still present. Elephant herds can be seen enjoying the abundant vegetation.
Migratory birds are still present, making it an excellent time for birdwatching enthusiasts. The alkaline lake's water levels start to rise, changing the dynamics of the shoreline.
Some camps may begin to close, but many larger lodges remain open.
- Rainfall increases, vegetation still lush
- Migratory birds prepare to depart
- Good time for photography with clear skies
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Lake Manyara National Park in April
April is the wettest month in Lake Manyara National Park, with an average rainfall of 250mm. The park's ecosystem is in full bloom, with lush vegetation and flowing streams. While big game viewing becomes more challenging due to dense foliage, this is an excellent time for botanists and bird enthusiasts. The groundwater forest is teeming with life, and the Treetop Canopy Walk offers unique views of the verdant canopy. The famous tree-climbing lions may seek shelter from the rain, making sightings less frequent. Despite the rain, dedicated wildlife enthusiasts can still enjoy rewarding experiences, especially in observing smaller creatures and lush plant life.
Migratory birds are still present, adding to the park's rich avian diversity. The alkaline lake reaches its highest levels, altering the landscape dramatically.
- Landscape beautiful with wildflowers blooming
- Big game viewing more challenging
- Birdwatching still excellent
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Lake Manyara National Park in May
May in Lake Manyara National Park typically sees the rains continue. The landscape remains lush and green, offering beautiful scenery. Wildlife viewing starts to improve as animals begin to congregate around water sources as the rain decreases. The groundwater forest is particularly vibrant, hosting diverse primate species including baboons and blue monkeys. The famous tree-climbing lions become more active as the rains decrease. Elephant herds are frequently spotted enjoying the abundant vegetation. As the month progresses, game drives become increasingly rewarding with improved wildlife sightings.
Birdlife remains excellent, with both resident and some lingering migratory species present. The alkaline lake's water levels remain high, attracting various water birds. The Treetop Canopy Walk offers excellent opportunities for observing the forest ecosystem.
- Improving visibility for spotting wildlife
- Elephants more easily seen in open areas
- Water birds attracted by the high levels of the alkaline lake
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in May
Lake Manyara National Park in June
June marks the beginning of the dry season in Lake Manyara National Park. Wildlife viewing improves significantly as animals start concentrating around permanent water sources. The famous tree-climbing lions become more visible as they seek elevated spots to catch breezes and avoid insects. Large elephant herds are frequently spotted in the savannah plains and near the lake. Game drives become highly productive, offering opportunities to see diverse wildlife including buffaloes, wildebeests, and various antelope species.
Birdlife remains excellent, with many species easily observable. The alkaline lake begins to recede, concentrating flamingos and other water birds. The Treetop Canopy Walk provides unique perspectives of the forest and its inhabitants. Night game drives reveal nocturnal animals and offer a different park experience.
- Dry season starts, vegetation thinning out
- Tree-climbing lions more visible on branches
- Large herds gather at remaining water sources
- Clear skies perfect for landscape photography
- Comfortable temperatures, low humidity
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Lake Manyara National Park in July
July is an excellent month for visiting Lake Manyara National Park. The dry season is in full swing, resulting in excellent wildlife viewing conditions. The park's famous tree-climbing lions are often spotted in acacia trees, providing unique photo opportunities. Large herds of elephants frequent the shrinking water sources, offering impressive sightings. Game drives are rewarding, with increased chances of spotting diverse wildlife in the open plains and around water bodies.
The alkaline lake continues to recede, concentrating flamingos and other water birds in spectacular numbers. Birdlife remains rich, with many species easily observable.
- Prime time for game viewing and safaris
- High chance of seeing the Big Five
- Busy season with more visitors in the park
- Spectacular sunsets over Lake Manyara
- Hippos concentrate in shrinking water bodies
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Lake Manyara National Park in August
August in Lake Manyara National Park offers superb wildlife viewing opportunities. The dry season peaks, concentrating animals around remaining water sources. The famous tree-climbing lions are frequently spotted, often seeking refuge from the heat in acacia trees. Large elephant herds are easily observed in the savannah plains and near the shrinking lake. Game drives are highly productive, offering excellent chances to spot diverse wildlife including buffaloes, wildebeests, and various antelope species.
The receding alkaline lake creates a spectacular sight with thousands of flamingos and other water birds. Birdlife remains rich, with many species easily observable. The clear skies and dry conditions make this an ideal time for photography.
- Excellent month for wildlife photography
- Tree-climbing lions frequently spotted
- Large elephant herds near remaining water
- Peak dry season, excellent wildlife viewing
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Lake Manyara National Park in September
September is an excellent month to visit Lake Manyara National Park. The dry season continues, providing optimal conditions for wildlife viewing. The famous tree-climbing lions are often spotted seeking refuge from the heat in acacia trees. Large elephant herds congregate around the shrinking water sources, offering impressive sightings. Game drives are highly rewarding, with increased chances of spotting diverse wildlife in the open plains and around water bodies.
The receding alkaline lake concentrates flamingos and other water birds, creating spectacular scenes. Birdlife remains rich, with many species easily observable. The clear skies and dry conditions continue to favour photography.
- Wildlife concentrated around water sources
- Predator sightings increase near prey
- Birdlife abundant at hippo pool area
- Pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities
- Great month for night game drives
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Lake Manyara National Park in October
October marks the end of the dry season in Lake Manyara National Park, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The famous tree-climbing lions are frequently spotted as they seek elevated positions to catch breezes. Large elephant herds are easily observed around the remaining water sources. Game drives are highly productive, with diverse wildlife congregating in open areas.
The alkaline lake reaches its lowest levels, concentrating flamingos and other water birds in impressive numbers. Birdlife remains rich, with many species easily observable. As the month progresses, there's a possibility of short rains, which can bring welcome relief to the parched landscape and animals.
- Last month of peak dry season
- Fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities
- Vegetation sparse, easier to spot animals
- Migratory birds begin to return to the park
- Ideal for combining game drives and walks
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Lake Manyara National Park in November
November sees the start of the short rainy season in Lake Manyara National Park. The landscape begins to transform as vegetation turns green. Wildlife viewing remains good, although animals start to disperse as water becomes more widely available. The famous tree-climbing lions may be spotted less frequently as they have less need to seek elevated positions. Elephant herds begin to move away from permanent water sources. Game drives can still be rewarding, especially early in the month.
Birdlife becomes particularly interesting as migratory species arrive from Europe and North Africa. The alkaline lake's water levels start to rise, changing the dynamics for water birds. The Treetop Canopy Walk offers unique perspectives of the rejuvenating forest. The Maji Moto hot springs provide a warm retreat on cooler, rainy days.
- Short rains begin, landscape starts to green
- Wildlife still easily visible near water
- Migratory birds arrive in large numbers
- Newborn animals may be seen in the park
- Lower visitor numbers, more exclusive feel
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Lake Manyara National Park in December
December in Lake Manyara National Park sees the continuation of the short rainy season. The landscape is lush and green, offering beautiful scenery. Wildlife viewing can be challenging as animals disperse due to widely available water, but patient observers can still have rewarding experiences. The famous tree-climbing lions may be harder to spot but are still present. Elephant herds enjoy the abundant vegetation across the park. Despite occasional rain showers, game drives can still be productive.
Birdlife is excellent, with both resident and migratory species present in large numbers. The alkaline lake's rising water levels attract diverse water birds. The Treetop Canopy Walk provides unique views of the vibrant forest canopy. December can offer great value for visitors outside the peak holiday period.
- Abundant birdlife, including flamingos on lake
- Wildlife more dispersed but still viewable
- Possible thunder showers in afternoons
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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