lake manyara serena safari lodge address

LAKE MANYARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE

Tanzania’s towering Mto wa Mbu escarpment provides an unforgettable setting for an unforgettable visit. Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge greets you with a quiet setting amidst the abundant animals and unparalleled peacefulness of Lake Manyara National Park. The lake is home to over 300 migratory species, including flamingos, long-crested eagles, and grey-headed kingfishers; our resort is meant to emulate this remarkable wildlife, with swooping avian curves and vibrantly colored wall murals portraying the birds. The Losimingori Suite is a unique example of elegance in a safari resort. The luxurious bedroom features a king-sized double bed, exquisite furniture, and a marble ensuite bathroom. A separate sitting room with spectacular views and a balcony is available.

During your stay at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, you may discover the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural legacy of your surrounds. We provide a wide range of fantastic activities and experiences, including village tours and nature hikes, as well as bicycling, running, painting, and language and cookery classes.

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Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

This unique african-style lodge sits high on an escarpment in mto wa mbu, overlooking the shimmering waters of lake manyara..

The main reception, dining and bar areas are built around a striking infinity pool, which looks straight out over the cliffs onto the Lake Manyara National Park below.

Guests are accommodated in 67 rooms housed within numerous double-storey rondavels,circular whitewashed stone buildings with thatched roofs, which are spread out across the ridge to maximise views. Each guest room is decorated with colourful Maasai motifs and hand-woven rugs, with small private verandas.

The proximity of Lake Manyara Serena Lodge to the lake allows guests to take boat trips or mountain biking tours to discover its rich ecosystem. The reserve surrounding the lake is home to a huge variety of birdlife as well as unique tree-climbing lions. Enjoy informative talks and presentations about local wildlife and tribes or maybe visit traditional villages in the vicinity of Mto wa Mbu. The lodge also offers watercolour painting and archery.

Camp Location

How to get to Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Mto wa Mbu is approximately 130km or 2.5 hours by road from Arusha. Alternatively, guests can fly to an airstrip adjacent to Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, where they are met and transferred on arrival.

Activities at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

• Day and night game drives
• Boat trips on Lake Manyara
• Mountain biking
• Village walks
• Onsite archery and watercolour painting

*Some activities are available at extra cost.

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Highlights

• An African-style lodge with unsurpassable views over Lake Manyara
• All the facilities of a five-star hotel from an infinity pool to archery range
• Close to traditional villages
• Opportunities for forest walks and canoeing in the Lake Manyara National Park
• Chance to participate in mountain biking

Find out more about our tailor made African safaris. Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists.

Subscribe below to keep up to date, find out more about our tailor made african safaris, luxury accommodation in lake manyara, chem chem lodge.

Set on a private wildlife concession between Tarangire and Lake Manyara national parks, Chem Chem Lodge comprises eight exquisite tented suites.

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Kirurumu Manyara Lodge features 27 tented guest rooms that are simple yet comfortable, and breathtaking views of Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley floor.

This unique African-style lodge sits high on an escarpment overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Manyara with 67 rooms housed within double-storey rondavels.

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Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Mto wa Mbu, Northern Tanzania, Karatu, Tanzania – Excellent location - show map

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Reserve now

Lock in a great price for Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge - rated 8.6 by recent guests.

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Cleanliness

Value for money

Excellent location!

With garden views, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is situated in Karatu and has a restaurant, a shared lounge, bar, garden and outdoor pool. The lodge features both WiFi and private parking free of charge. There is a private bathroom with shower in every unit, along with free toiletries, a hairdryer and bathrobes. Breakfast is available each morning, and includes buffet, à la carte and continental options. If you would like to discover the area, cycling is possible in the surroundings. The nearest airport is Lake Manyara, a few steps from Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Airport shuttle
• Room service
• Family rooms
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Free parking

Property highlights

Top location: Highly rated by recent guests (9.7)

Breakfast info

Continental, Full English/Irish, Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal, Gluten-free, Kosher, American, Buffet

Free private parking available on-site

Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

Categories:

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Property surroundings

Restaurants 1 restaurant on site.

• Cuisine African • American

Facilities of Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Great facilities! Review score, 8.6

• Toilet paper
• Private bathroom
• Free toiletries
• Wardrobe or closet
• Landmark view
• Garden view
• BBQ facilities Additional charge
• Cleaning products
• Tumble dryer
• Electric kettle
• Clothes rack
• Bike tours Additional charge
• Game drives Additional charge
• Cycling Off-site
• Canoeing Additional charge Off-site
• Seating Area
• Tea/Coffee maker
• Concierge service
• Luggage storage
• Currency exchange
• Board games/puzzles
• Babysitting/child services Additional charge
• Daily housekeeping
• Laundry Additional charge
• Fax/photocopying
• Meeting/banquet facilities Additional charge
• Safety deposit box
• Shared lounge/TV area
• Designated smoking area
• Mosquito net
• Private entrance
• Interconnected room(s) available
• Packed lunches
• Airport shuttle Additional charge
• Non-smoking rooms
• Wake up service/Alarm clock
• Pool with view
• Pool/beach towels
• Beauty Services
• Massage Additional charge

House rules Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge takes special requests - add in the next step!

Child policies.

Children of any age are welcome.

To see correct prices and occupancy information, please add the number of children in your group and their ages to your search.

Cot and extra bed policies

Prices for cots and extra beds are not included in the total price, and will have to be paid for separately during your stay.

The number of extra beds and cots allowed is dependent on the option you choose. Please check your selected option for more information.

All cots and extra beds are subject to availability.

The fine print Need-to-know information for guests at this property

Kindly contact the lodge's central reservations at least 48 hrs prior to your travel date to make arrangements for transportation to the lodge, including airstrip transfer at charge.

Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.

Please inform Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge in advance of your expected arrival time. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly with the contact details provided in your confirmation.

Payment before arrival via bank transfer is required. The property will contact you after you book to provide instructions.

In response to Coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.

Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property is taking steps to help protect the safety of guests and staff. Certain services and amenities may be reduced or unavailable as a result.

In accordance with government guidelines to minimise transmission of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property may request additional documentation from guests to validate identity, travel itinerary and other relevant information, during dates where such guidelines exist.

FAQs about Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

How far is lake manyara serena safari lodge from the centre of karatu.

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is 10.6 miles from the centre of Karatu. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

What are the check-in and check-out times at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge?

Check-in at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is from 12:00, and check-out is until 11:00.

How much does it cost to stay at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge?

The prices at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates you select, hotel's policy etc.). See the prices by entering your dates.

Does Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge have a restaurant on site?

• Restaurant #1

Is Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge popular with families?

Yes, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is popular with guests booking family stays.

Does Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge have a pool?

Yes, this hotel has a pool. Find out the details about the pool and other facilities on this page.

What is there to do at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge?

• Game drives
• Swimming Pool

What type of room can I book at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge?

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Lake Manyara Serena Lodge

A classic safari lodge located in the beautiful Lake Manyara National Park , the Lake Manyara Serena Lodge offers a relaxing and enthralling stay for guests seeking to explore the incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscape, and cultural wonders in this area. 

The main Lodge facilities include a comfortable, fair-sized lounge area with a charming bar and impressive dining room. The Flamingo Restaurant serves a blend of local and international cuisine and the large verandah is the ideal spot for guests to sit and take in their picturesque surroundings. 

The Lodge is set on the Mto wa Mbu escarpment, the Lodge’s swimming pool lying at the very edge and offering commanding views over the Park. Rejuvenation is guaranteed when staying here with an array of spa treatments and massages on offer, or guests looking to stay active can enjoy a jog around the grounds. For something more serene, guests can try their hand at painting. 

Guests can spend time in the gift shop and boutique on-site, and board games are available for those guests looking to spend a little downtime indoors. There are laundry services and WiFi available too.

Lake Manyara Serena Lodge is located on the edge of the Mto wa Mbu escarpment near Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park. Flights from Arusha or Kilimanjaro will take between 30 and 40 minutes and from here, guests are driving to the Lodge which sits around one mile away.

Rooms / Tents

Double-storey, rounded buildings house 66 Standard Rooms and one Losmingori Suite, all neutrally painted with dark tiled flooring and colorful fabric art on the walls. Colorful curtains and cushions depict local African heritage. 

There are 21 Double Rooms, 30 Twin Rooms, and 15 Triple Rooms. The bedding will be set up as either a large double bed or two single beds in the Twin Rooms and three single beds in the Triple Rooms. 

There is mosquito netting over the beds and each room has a writing desk and chair, a small sitting area, a safe to store valuables, and a tea/coffee-making station. There is access to WiFi, and those wishing to immerse themself in nature truly, can sit on the furnished balcony or verandah and take in the sights and sounds of their surroundings. All bathrooms are en-suite and contain a toilet, vanity, and shower, with bath amenities for guests to use during their stay. 

The Losmingori Suite has a king-size bed and a separate lounge area which comprises a television and mini-bar. 

Swimming Pool

Flamingo restaurant, gift shop and boutique, poolside bar, laundry services, babysitting services, beauty and spa treatments, bicycle rides, game viewing / activities.

Guests staying at Lake Manyara Serena Lodge have a wide selection of activities and adventures . Game drives in Lake Manyara National Park are fantastic with a wide range of wildlife to encounter. Bird watching is spectacular here and night drives are a special treat where nocturnal animals such as aardvark can be spotted. 

Guests can enjoy bush dinners and bicycle rides, forest hikes and walks, or simply try their hand at a game of archery back at the Lodge. Canoe trips and cultural visits to nearby communities or a visit to the African Galleria, perhaps an outing to Lake Duluti located 1.5 miles away, or topping it all off with a treetop canopy trip through the forest, there is so much to do and enjoy when staying at the Lake Manyara Serena Lodge.

Lake Manyara safaris

Tanzania safaris, kenya-tanzania safaris, tanzania safaris frequently asked questions, when is the best time to visit tanzania.

The best times to visit Tanzania are December through March or June through October during the dry seasons, when the game viewing is at its best. The rains usually last from April to May then occur again in November when there are fewer tourists and vegetation flourishes. During February, wildebeest are calving, giving you a front row seat to the baby's first moments in the savannah.

How much does a safari in Tanzania cost?

A mid-range safari with lodging runs $350 to $400 per person, per day while a high end luxury safari with all the trimmings ranges from $600 to about $1000 per person, per day. Read more about safari costs for Tanzania.

Kenya or Tanzania: which is better for safari?

Both countries are reputed for outstanding game viewing. Tanzania’s jaw-dropping Mount Kilimanjaro, sweeping coffee plantations and the exotic island of Zanzibar make it unique from its northern neighbor, while Kenya's lush green landscapes make it a bit less tropical, climate-wise. The two countries are frequently combined into a single journey, given their proximity to each other and the fact that they are both locations for the must-see Great Migration. Read more about whether Kenya or Tanzania is better for a safari .

When and what is the Great Migration?

The Great Migration is a wildlife spectacle, sometimes called The Greatest Show on Earth by safari enthusiasts, during which hundreds of wildebeest and other mammals head towards greener grazing pastures during East Africa's dry season. It is heavily dependent on the weather, specifically the rain which brings new vegetation upon which the wildebeest feed. Generally-speaking, herds are in the Serengeti from November to May. In May, as the grass dries up, herds begin the 500-mile migration north and by June they are in the greener plains of Kenya’s Maasai Mara. They usually stay here until October. From January on, they alternate between woodlands and plains, depending on the weather. In anticipation of the short rains—and the greener grasslands that come with it—the herds begin their trek down to the Serengeti. In November and December, they arrive to a flourishing green landscape where they stay until the cycle begins again.

Why book with us

• NWKS is a locally owned and operated tour company
• Guides are knowledgeable about the landscape, animals, plants, and history of the areas covered
• NWKS enjoys many 5-star reviews from clients that speak of our customer service
• NWKS provides customizable and affordable Tanzania safari tours
• Door-to-door, on-time hotel pickups and dropoffs
• Fulfilling clients’ expectations of seeing the “Big Five” on safari

Uganda Safari & Gorilla Trekking FAQs

The best time to go gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry season (December– February and June - August) when conditions are especially good for trekking to view mountain gorillas. Game drives in the national parks are also fruitful during this time.

Wear neutral colored, lightweight clothing on your Uganda safari. Dress in layers and bring a warm sweater for morning and nighttime game drives. For gorilla trekking, bring a waterproof rain jacket, hiking boots, long socks, hiking pants, bug repellant, and a daypack. A sunhat and gardening gloves are also a good idea; the jungle is dense and thick.

Natural World Kenya Safaris offers Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Uganda with basic accommodations starting at $96 per person, per day, plus the Uganda gorilla trekking permit which costs $700 per person per day (the permits are required, and those fees are non-negotiable.) Costs increase from there. Natural World Safaris can provide basic, mid-range, and luxury trekking safaris and is eager to work with almost any budget.

Suggested tips range from $10 to $20 per person per day for a private guide and the same amount for your driver if that is a different person than your guide.

If you are on a guided safari or gorilla trek in Uganda, your chances of encountering problems are minimal. However, it is always a good idea to take precautions on your safari, particularly when traveling through urban areas or in regions close to the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The trek to spot gorillas can be strenuous. It could take anywhere from two to eight hours to find and observe the gorillas, depending on the time of year. Be prepared to hike for multiple hours through uneven terrain at high altitude. It is advisable to train before any gorilla trekking trip by walking uphill, or better yet, by taking day hikes.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, there are never any guarantees. There are no fences in the parks in Uganda and the gorillas are free to roam. However, our expert guides and gorilla trackers have years of experience taking guests to see these magnificent creatures. They know their favorite spots to congregate and work closely with park officials each day to provide the best possible chance of seeing gorillas in the wild.

Most mountain gorillas in Uganda live at between 4,900 to 7,500 feet. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the country’s mountain gorillas, has a high point of 8,550ft.

Rwanda Safari & Gorilla Trekking FAQs

The best time to go on a gorilla trek in Rwanda is during the dry season (June - September) when conditions are best for trekking to view the country’s highlight: the fascinating mountain gorillas.

Wear neutral colored, lightweight clothing on your Rwanda gorilla trek. Dress in layers and don’t forget a sweater for chilly morning and nighttime game drives. For gorilla trekking, bring a waterproof rain jacket, broken-in hiking boots, long socks, hiking pants, bug repellant, and a daypack. A sun visor and protective gloves – such as gardening gloves - are also useful.

Natural World Kenya Safaris offers Gorilla Trekking Safaris in Rwanda with basic accommodations starting at $720 per person, per day, plus the Rwanda gorilla trekking permit which costs $1,500 per person per day (the permits are required, and those fees are non-negotiable.) Costs increase from there. Natural World Safaris can provide basic, mid-range, and luxury trekking safaris and is eager to work with almost any budget.

Suggested tips for your guide are $25 per person, per day for a private guide and the same amount for your driver if that is a different person than your guide.

Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa, particularly if you are on a guided safari or gorilla trek. Your chances of encountering problems are minimal. However, it is always a good idea to take precautions on your safari, particularly when traveling through urban areas. Cross-border travel into the Democratic Republic of the Congo or Burundi is not safe, however, so steer clear of this.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, there are never any guarantees. There are no fences in the parks in Rwanda and the gorillas are free to roam. However, our expert guides and gorilla trackers have years of experience taking guests to see these magnificent creatures. They know their favorite spots to congregate and work closely with park officials each day to provide the best possible chance of seeing gorillas in the wild.

Most mountain gorillas in Rwanda live at between 8,000 to 13,000 feet. Volcanoes National Park has a high point of 15,000ft.

Contact us for more information

For more information about our safari excursions, or to book your dream safari trip with Natural World Kenya Safaris, simply get in touch with our friendly travel advisors. Give us a call on +254 704 001 122 or leave your details on our contact us page, and we'll reply as quickly as possible.

Our Accreditations and Booking Security

We are fully accredited by and proud members of the following industry organizations.

Natural World Kenya safaris is Member No.FA/440 - Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) bonding scheme . The scheme is insured to guarantee your holiday safari in the unlikely event that a bonded KATO member ceases operating.

Natural World Kenya Safaris is Member No.FA/440 Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) bonding scheme . The scheme is insured to guarantee your safari in the unlikely event that a bonded KATO member ceases operations.

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Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge: Our full report

In a stunning location, perched high on the edge of the escarpment, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge has ...

• A mountain-biking trip heads down the Rift Valley Escarpment to Mto Wa Mbu village, taking about three-and-a-half hours. The cost – about £30/US$45 per person – includes a guide, drinks/snacks and a transfer back up the escarpment to the lodge, as well as mountain bike, helmet and gloves hire.
• Alternatively, there's the option of a walk around Mto Wa Mbu where guests can meet with the local people and visit the village’s farms, kindergarten, milling machine, church and local homes. This, too, costs roughly £30/US$45 each and generally lasts about three hours, including the drive to and from the village; it's recommended for all ages.
• More strenuous is a forest hike , which heads from the lodge along the edge of the escarpment and descends into a nearby gorge – where it's possible to explore groundwater springs. The hike ends at the gates to Lake Manyara National Park, where you'll be picked up and driven back to the lodge. It lasts around two to three hours and costs about £20/US$30 per person. You do need to have a reasonable level of fitness for this activity.
• A little easier is the nature walk , lasting roughly an hour and led by a qualified naturalist. This concentrates on the area at the edge of the Rift Valley and is free of charge for overnight guests. This is suitable for most age groups and abilities.
• In the evening, at 7.00pm, there's a three-hour night drive through the national park in an open game-drive vehicle with a guide and spotter. Costs depend on the size of the group, but start at £50/US$75 per person based on a group of two.

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is typical of the Serena Hotels brand: it lacks luxury or intimacy, but does provide a practical, comfortable base at a reasonable price. We had good service here on our most recent visit (in Feb 2018) and it was friendly and efficient. We loved the stunning views from the cliff-top location. If staying inside Lake Manyara National Park isn’t an option, then visiting from here is a good alternative.

Lyndsey Marris

Tanzania expert

Geographics

Food & drink, special interests, our travellers’ wildlife sightings from lake manyara serena.

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology .

100% success

67% success

33% success

Communications

Health & safety.

Birdwatching

Cultural excursion

Mountain biking

Night drive

Room types at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

The rooms at Lake Manyara Serena Lodge are comfortable, rather impersonal, practical bases for a night. Their thick, white, stone walls are clad with dense creepers and topped with thatch. The rooms are all close together, some in double-storey units. To get the best view of Lake Manyara, we recommend the first-floor rooms, which come with a small, half-crescent veranda about 3m long and a maximum of 1.5m wide, set with two directors' chairs. The fan table from the room can be taken outside. Inside, each room is quite simple with white walls and floors of polished red cement or blue tiles (changing to the latter being the general plan). A red bedspread adorns the bed (which can be double or twin), framed by a mosquito net and backed by a vibrant wall hanging. A rug lies in front of a dark wood bedside table and there are a couple of bedside lights. Each bedroom has an internal, a wooden cupboard, a small chair and mosquito spray. Equally simple are the en-suite, 2.5m x 2.5m bathroom-loo combinations. In each, a kidney-shaped mirror hangs over the basin, which is set into a wooden surround laid out with complimentary toiletries. A white-tiled shower (no bath tub), flush toilet and a hairdryer complete the facilities.

The modestly sized Losimingori Suite (just one), that is named after the hills visible from the veranda, has cool, polished cement floors, chunky rugs, a living area with a sofa and armchair, occasional tables and chairs, a writing desk, filled minibar (extra cost), and tea- and coffee-making facilities, a small TV (DSTV and DVD player), and a fan. The modest-sized bedroom has a kingsize bed, clothes storage and a digital safe. The bathroom features the lodge’s only bathtub, a small rainfall shower screened by a plastic curtain and a double vanity unit. There’s a separate toilet closet, and another loo off the lounge.

Other lodges in Lake Manyara National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Kirurumu Manyara

With spectacular views over Lake Manyara, Kirurumu is one of the simplest camps we offer in northern Tanzania.

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.

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.

Other areas in Tanzania

Dar es Salaam

Ngorongoro Crater

Mafia Island

Tanzania Coast

Mahale Mountains

Pemba Island

Mikumi & Udzungwa

Fanjove Island

Rubondo Island

Lake Natron

Lupita Island

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Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Review – A Luxury Experience

Perched on the cliffs of the Mto Wa Mbu escarpment, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is set amidst the scenic views of the Lake Manyara National Park . Just 130 kilometres from the town of Arusha, this wildlife wonderland is home to everything from famous tree-climbing lions to over 300 migratory bird species. 

My wife and I stayed in the luxurious Losimingori Suite during our visit, which gave our surroundings an extra touch of class. We dined three times a day in the elegant yet traditional Flamingo restaurant located in the lodge and spent alternate days enjoying exciting bush dinners, which were hosted by the lodge.

In this article, I'll share my best insights on the type of accommodation and amenities you can expect at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, activities you can enjoy as well as exploring the rich culture of the area. 

Let's dive in. 

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

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Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Review

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is set around an infinity pool with its edges disappearing into the horizon. The traditional rondavel style  accommodation and authentic Masaai culture-inspired décor provide a unique  luxury safari experience .

Witness the magnificent wildlife or spend time with the family partaking in the educational games and drives in Lake Manyara. Whatever you end up doing, you'll definitely appreciate why Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is so highly ranked among Tanzania's best hotels and exclusive safari accommodation .

Which tour?  Here are 5 safari tours including Lake Manyara I highly recommend: 

• Northern Circuits Park Tour  (3 days)
• Coffee Waterfall Safari  (6 days)
• Camping Safari  (7 days)
• Best of Tanzania Safari  (8 days)
• Luxury Kenya and Tanzania Tour  (14 days)

See more  Lake Manyara Safari deals .

Location And Views At Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Set in the heart of Lake Manyara National Park , the lodge provides a truly immersive wilderness experience. Guests wake up to spectacular views from their bedroom’s veranda where they can marvel at the pinkish hues of the flamingoes and the blues of the lake set against the endless savannah.

The lodge is just a short two-kilometre drive down a private dirt track from the main road, which leads you straight into the reception area – a village-like set-up of thatched rooms. Whether you peer down into the national park over the pool edge or take time to look at the cultural architecture and ornaments that decorate the dining areas – Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge is truly captivating. 

Amenities At  Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge offers world-class amenities and services to make your stay comfortable and convenient.

• Outside dining terrace overlooking the scenic pool-side bar and sun deck. 
• Reception area including a gift shop, central dining room and hotel bar. 
• Tented conference room.
• Business center. 
• Babysitting service.
• Free onsite parking as well as wheelchair access to all public areas. 
• Guest services such as a barber and hair stylist, currency exchange, laundry, dry-cleaning services and complimentary coffee.

Rooms  A t Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Inspired by local architectural traditions, the rooms are built in a circular shape with stone walls and thatched roofs. The lodge offers 67 bedrooms including one executive suite, 41 twin rooms, 12 triple rooms, and 13 single rooms.

The standard chalets are double story, white-washed “ rondavels ” situated on the edge of a cliff and boast incredible views. Each room has a veranda or balcony with an en-suite bathroom. The traditional décor is mesmerizing and includes hand-woven rugs, beadwork and brightly coloured wall art to mimic the diverse birdlife . 

The Losimingori Suite , aptly named because of its magnificent views of the Losimingori Mountain, is hidden by a private entrance. The room is made up of a king-sized bed, an en-suite bathroom and a fully stocked minibar. There is a luxurious sitting room as well as a balcony that allows you to soak in the breathtaking views. 

As an added bonus, guest can enjoy a complimentary spread of fruit and wine upon entering the suite. Room prices start from US$250 per night for a standard double chalet or US$675 per night for the executive suite .

Fine Dining A t Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

The Flamingo restaurant replicates a traditional Maasai boma , serving buffet-style meals in the dining area or on the garden terrace. Guests are entertained by a live cooking setting where they can not only watch their food being prepared but join in on a cooking class to learn how to prepare these dishes themselves. 

A short stroll from the lodge will take you to the location of the bush dining area where you are treated to a full English breakfast in the shade of the indigenous acacia trees . The local chefs add to the experience by preparing the meal on charcoal stoves in front of you. 

The bush dining area also offers a dinner under the stars, kicked off with cocktails around the campfire while watching traditional dances. 

To immerse yourself in the local culture, you have the option of enjoying a village lunch that’s run by the local community. Guests will be guided around the village and lunch will be served in a clearing among the banana plantations. The bush dining experience as well as the village lunch needs to be organized with the lodge and will be charged at an additional cost. 

Activities  A t Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

If it’s relaxation you’re after, you can choose all kinds of activities from lounging around the scenic pool to getting treated at the lodge’s spa. 

To add adventure to your stay at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, there’s the option of a mountain-bike down the Rift Valley Escarpment into Mto Wa Mbu village . Hotel guests can also enjoy a forest and bush walk led by a qualified naturalist, day and night safari drives, and a canoe ride on Lake Manyara.

To experience a taste of the local culture, you can sign up for Swahili language lessons, visit local markets, or take a Tuk tuk ride through the villages. 

As a family-friendly lodge, there are also activities for children like educational games, safari drives , and walks that teach children to care for the wilderness by planting trees. Parents can also request a babysitter at any time of the day. 

I hope my Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge Review helps you visit this luxury safari destination in the near future. You're guaranteed a lifetime of important conservation lessons and unforgettable experiences during your trip. 

Mark Whitman

Hi, I'm Mark! Welcome to Climb Kilimanjaro Guide - the Web's No.1 Trekking Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro. This site is your one stop shop for everything Kilimanjaro. To date over 5 million people have visited Climb Kilimanjaro Guide, many of which have gone on to summit Kili! I hope you find all the answers you are looking for, but if you have any questions don't hesitate to drop a comment below!

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