Luxury Options on Crater Rim

The Ngorongoro Crater has long held its status as one of the world’s most iconic safari destinations. With a plethora of exquisite, luxury lodges to choose from, a trip to the crater has the potential to tick all the boxes for a dream safari holiday. For those looking to experience the caldera on a budget, there are also some hidden gems worth exploring.  The best places to stay near the Ngorongoro Crater depends on what you can afford, which ultimately impacts your accessibility to the crater.

Luxury Options on Crater Rim

Ngorongoro Serena Lodge

Nestled high up on the walls of the mighty volcanic caldera is an architectural masterpiece with river-stone clad walls intertwined with indigenous creeping vines.

The workmanship alone would make Serena Lodge an exceptional stay.

Combine the design with that the fact that this special place is perched like a nest along the craggy edge of the prehistoric Ngorongoro Crater, and you have something truly staggering.

The rooms are strung out along the crater edge and each has its own balcony with unparalleled views.

The positioning of the lodge and the way it mixes class with local culture is a big drawcard.

Costs: The standard rooms are priced from US$334 per night. The Kimba suites, starting from US$843 per night are large and luxurious rooms.

This lodge caters for guests looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Staying on the edge of a World Heritage Site should only be considered when the cost is not a factor.

Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge

Situated on the highest point of the entire rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, Sopa Lodge has some of the best sunset views you will ever see.

Incredibly spacious and designed as more of a luxury resort than a lodge, this establishment pulls out all the stops.

Costs: A single room in the high and peak season is currently priced from US$375 per night. Double rooms go for US$670 and four sleeper rooms start from US$1000.

The lodge caters for travellers with a taste for the finer things in life.

With activities and amenities catering for all members of the family, the lodge is a perfect fit for honeymoon couples and adventurous families alike.

AndBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

This lodge is a serious contender for being one of the best lodges in the world. AndBeyond Lodge features 30 lavish suites inspired in concept by Maasai homesteads, yet has the most dramatic interior design.

The lodge is divided into three camps, each with its own dining areas and personal butlers to ensure every possible need is taken care of.

Guests are transported to a kingdom high up in the East African sky, where the mists swirl to reveal breath-taking vistas of the crater.

Travellers can enjoy Maasai warrior dances, jaw-dropping sunsets, personalized service, all in a setting that feels distinctly royal yet will all the trappings of local charm.

Costs: Suite prices range from US$1160 per person sharing per night in low season to US$1950 per person in peak season.

The establishment caters for travellers that are not afraid to splash the cash on the finest living that Tanzania has to offer.

Every aspect of the lodge is designed with the closest attention to detail and was created with the sole purpose of offering guests an experience like no other.

The sense of romance that the lodge offers is unparalleled and is thus a bucket-list destination for smitten couples or those seeking exclusivity.

Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge

This hotel is conveniently located just a short walk from the game reserve gates and the drive into the crater will take you less than half an hour.

It combines all the opulence one would hope for in a romantic African getaway, with a touch of traditional Tanzanian comforts.

For those looking to relax in style, this is an exceptional choice.

Guests can recline alongside the swimming pool, book a massage at the Earth & Rain Spa or sit back and enjoy a full-day game drive in the Crater.

Costs: The lodge features 20 luxurious log cabins. The price is around US$1200 for a single room for two people sharing.

The lodge is an idyllic retreat for those looking for an intimate bush experience. Better catered to couples and smaller families, the 20 spacious log cabins feature an open fireplace, king-size beds and large en-suite bathrooms.