Lemala Ngorongoro is an intimate seasonal camp set in a delightful ancient acacia forest filled with the sounds of birds and wildlife. It is on the rim of the Ngorongoro crater, next to the quiet Lemala access route. The camp offers accommodation in nine spacious canvas tents ensuring intimacy and minimal impact on the pristine forest environment.
Lemala’s major advantage over any other accommodation in the Ngorongoro area is the quick and easy access into the crater. Game drives from the camp may start as early as 6.15am and there is no time wasting at the gate as you can drive straight down to the floor within 10 to 15 minutes. Lemala guests usually have an hour’s head start over others in the morning, which is crucial for photographers who demand the best light conditions.
Another advantage is its close proximity to Ol Moti and Empakai craters, where one can trek to admire beautiful landscapes and habitats.
This is one of the best accommodation options in the Ngorongoro area and offers a peaceful base from which to explore.
Accommodation
The tents accommodate two Queen-size beds or a King-size bed which have warm duvets and hot water bottles. There is a gas heater to warm up the tents in the evening, and the roof has liners to keep guests cosy during the cooler nights. Carpets, curtains and cushions are in warm fabrics and textures to compliment the ambiance of the rooms, while new sinks and shower curtains in the en-suites, and a larger range of amenities, provide touches of luxury that guests will enjoy after a day on the Crater. The roomy en-suite bathrooms contain a dressing area, flush toilet and a large safari shower. Each tent can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children.
Facilities & Dining
The mess tent is beautifully furnished with grand sofas, lamps, bookshelves and corner cabinets in old wood, chests and rugs. In the evening, guests gather around the campfire for cocktails before dining under chandeliers with the camp manager. House beverages are included at meal times.
The camp works closely with the local Masai community and often there are dances and talks on Masai traditions and ceremonies providing guests the opportunity to interact with the tribe.
Those looking to make the most of their surroundings can upgrade their picnic to enjoy a private sit-down lunch on the Crater floor. A cultural experience will await both guests of Lemala and day visitors as they return from game-viewing, where they’ll join Maasai Warriors for a hot BBQ-style meal and cold refreshments while overlooking the savannah.
Escorted walks are also available from the camp into the forest and along the crater rim with an armed ranger and a Masai to enjoy spectacular panoramic views.
