- Welcome to Karatu Simba Lodge
Enjoy Peaceful Serenity
Karatu Simba Lodge where you’ll experience the peace and quiet of the Tanzanian countryside. Karatu Simba Lodge has 23 tented camps and is located about a thirty-minute drive from the gate of Lake Manyara National Park, approximately four kilometres off the main road to the entry of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Situated deep in the farming area of the Karatu district and nestled rightalongside the Ngorongoro Forest—home to elephant, buffalo, hyena, and other wildlife—Karatu Simba Lodge offers fine hospitality for safari travellers.
On the way to Karatu Simba Lodge you may pass farmers herding cattle, sheep and goats or bullock carts hauling crops or water. Fields of barley, wheat, beans, legumes, corn and sunflowers create a mosaic of colour and texture ending at the deep green forest wall, which undulates in hills and valleys up to the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, visible in the distance. On arrival you’ll receive a warm welcome from the lodge staff, a refreshing drink and a towel to rinse away the dust of your journey.
Karatu Simba Lodge offers a slice of life only to be found in rural Tanzania. Farmers of the local Iraqw tribe, who are natural stewards of the land, manage the few neighbouring farms surrounding the lodge. As the seasons gently shift from green to dry with the accompanying cycle of planting, growing and harvesting, the colour palate subtly changes. Before the planting season the fields are a rich robust brown, reflecting the fertility of the soil and the promise of crops to come.
As the rains swell the seeds and they burst forth from the African earth, a cool green emerges, followed by deeper greens and blossoming heads of sunflowers in the long warm growing season. As the dry season comes to an end the fields are golden with heavy ripening stalks of barley and wheat. After the grain harvest the pigeon peas are still ripening in the field, and as their pods enlarge the elephants may venture from the forest under the cloak of the African night sky for a chance at these tasty treats; only to mostly likely be turned back by the vigilant farmers protecting their crops! The short rains arrive and the cycle begins again with ploughing and planting.
Enjoy the changing view with the seasons in a setting perfect for relaxing after long and dusty safari drives; the only sounds being the distant whistle of the herding boys, the occasional tractor and the chatter and twittering of birds. As the habitat transitions from forest to open grassland and cultivated area, a wonderful landscape for abundant and varied birdlife is created including forest dwellers, weavers, wagtails, sunbirds and others. >>>
- “Watching the sun set over the Ngorongoro Forest and millions of stars come out is an experience I’ll never, ever forget.”
- “I don’t remember ever being at such a quiet and lovely place. We enjoyed our stay immensely.”
- “Wonderful stay— very helpful kind and thoughtful (staff)…who could ask for anything more? Thank you!”
- “We felt at home… kids and adults! Exceptional service. We hope to return some day and we will highly recommend you to other people.”
Please Take Note: Our lodge is not suitable for guests with ambulatory issues or in wheelchairs; there is no wheelchair access. Children over age six are most welcome at the lodge and must be under parent’s supervision at all times. Children under the age of thirteen must share a room with an adult (17 or older).
- Karatu Simba Lodge - Accommodations
Fine hospitality for safari travellers
Accommodation at Karatu Simba Lodge is in individual twin, double or triple cottages or rondavels with canvas walls and solid attached bathroom and shower, tastefully and simply decorated with hand made furniture of African hardwood. Each unit has its own deck with safari chairs for relaxing and viewing the pastoral setting; from which you may see a troop of baboons foraging in the recently harvested barley fields or local ‘cowboys’ tending their herds. Fall asleep to the call of the bush baby and Montane nightjar.
All rooms have a view to the forest, fields and far distant hills. Rooms at Karatu Simba are beautifully and simply decorated with local fabrics and hard wood furniture; the beds all have mosquito nets. Full amenities are provided and rooms are solar powered with solar heatedwater; there isa power strip for battery charging.
Each room has a torch (flashlight) and umbrella for you to use during your stay with us. A whistle is also provided in case you need to alert the security guards.
As the solar lighting may be dimmer than you’re used to, we highly recommend you bring a headlamp or ‘book light’ for reading in bed at night.
Due to our solar electrical system it’s not possible to use a hair dryer at Karatu Simba. We kindly request that you don’t attempt to plug in a hair dryer as in all likelihood it will blow the system resulting in loss of power to the entire lodge.
Restaurant
Our location in the fertile farming area of the Karatu District is a real plus when it comes to preparing meals for our guests. The time from farm to table is short and we can source the best and freshest produce, eggs, coffee and other ingredients for our kitchen. At Karatu Simba Lodge we serve continental cuisine with an occasional sample of local dishes. Our well-trained chefs are eager to please and are always looking for new and innovative recipes to share with you.
Here are some of the ways we provide you with delicious and healthy food:
- Our coffee is grown a few miles away
- Bread, rolls, cakes and pastry baked daily
- Produce fresh from the farm
- Local free range eggs
- We “get” vegetarians, vegans and gluten free diets
- Breakfast is always a buffet of coffee, tea and hot chocolate, juice, a selection of cereals, fresh fruit, muffins or pancakes with eggs (with sausage and bacon) cooked to order. Oats porridge (oatmeal) is available on request.
- Most guests go out for the day with a lunch box and we work hard to provide a lunch box that stands out from the herd! If you choose to have lunch in the lodge you’ll be served a selection of salads, quiche and pizza or on colder days heartier fare such as a casserole, curry or spaghetti.
- Depending on how many guests are staying with us dinner may be served to the table or on the buffet. On the buffet there is always a vegetarian entrée. Please advise us as early as possible for any special dietary requests.
- Facilities and Amenities
Karatu Simba Lodge was designed to provide a quiet, restful place to unwind between your active safari days. You’ll be welcomed to reception with a refreshing towel and drink on arrival.
Tea is served every afternoon and the bar is always open! Relax in the lounge or around the pool and don’t miss the evening campfire or watching the sunset behind the Ngorongoro Forest.
Free wi-fi
solar power
Lounge
Bar
Dining
Campfire Area
Free wi-fi
solar power
Lounge
Bar
Dining
Campfire Area
Pool With Sun Deck
Activities
Experience the thrill of exploring the renowned Ngorongoro Crater and picturesque Lake Manyara on exhilarating game drives. Marvel at the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes while your expert guide shares fascinating insights about the surroundings.
Set off on leisurely strolls to discover the rich biodiversity and natural beauty surrounding Karatu Simba Lodge. Traverse through lush farms, pristine forests, and scenic trails, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the Tanzanian countryside.
Engage in the captivating activity of birdwatching as you explore the lodge grounds and nearby areas. Observe a myriad of bird species in their native habitats, from colorful songbirds to majestic raptors, guided by the expertise of seasoned birding enthusiasts.
Discover about the local culture by participating in fun cultural experiences. Meet local people, learn about their customs, and experience life in Karatu.
Have fun riding quad bikes around the lodge area. Navigate rugged terrain and scenic trails as you soak in panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Feel the excitement as you explore different trails.
Explore an enriching excursion to Lake Eyasi and engage with the indigenous tribes inhabiting the area. Immerse yourself in their traditional way of life, from hunting and gathering to cultural rituals, gaining invaluable insights into their ancient customs and beliefs.
Enjoy vibrant cultural dance performances on special occasions, immersing yourself in the rhythmic beats and colorful traditions of Tanzanian culture.
Unwind with refreshing drinks during sundowners, enjoying the breathtaking sunset views over the Karatu landscape.
Gather around the crackling campfire as the sun sets over the horizon. Share stories, laughter, and camaraderie under the star-studded African sky, creating cherished memories of evenings spent in the heart of nature.
Take a refreshing dip in the lodge’s swimming pool, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Karatu landscape. Enjoy moments of relaxation and tranquility amidst the lap of nature.
Game drives in
Lake Manyara National Park
Visit Lake Eyasi
and the interesting tribes there
Enjoy the swimming pool
at the lodge
Many of the below activities may already be on your itinerary and your safari guide will accompany you. Or, contact us in advance for suggested activities and prices.
- Visit nearby Ngorongoro Crater
- Birding on the lodge grounds
- Cultural activities in Karatu
- Guided walks to Ngorongoro Forest and elephant caves
- Nightly campfire at sundown
