Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Perched on the jagged rim of the crater, wreathed in morning mist, camouflaged in river-stone and cloaked in indigenous creepers, the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is a triumph of ecological and architectural fusion. Sensitively constructed so as to take nothing from its environment whilst affording endless vistas over the heat-shimmering reaches of the crater below, the clustered boulder-built buildings of the Lodge hug the crater rim, linked by rope-lashed timber walkways that skirt the buttressed roots of ancient, liana-hung trees. As if in a land before time, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is built into the rim of the Crater, the plant- and ivy-covered native stone blending masterfully with its surroundings.
Most of the 75 rooms have a private terrace with uninterrupted views of the 102-square-mile crater floor that is now a rich wildlife habitat. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is a striking interpretation of how prehistoric man lived, hiding in caves that allowed him to see his prey, but remain unseen.
Due to the prevailing cool climate in the region, the lounge and dining room are set indoors overlooking the Ngorongoro Crater through large picture glass panels. The interior, radiating out from the primeval log fire glowing at the heart of the Lodge, blends the concentrated hush of a game-viewing hide with the ochre, rust and charcoal images of a prehistoric cavern. Lit by flaming wall-lanterns, clad in gigantic volcanic boulders and decorated by the iron spears, bright-beaded robes and intricately carven artefacts of the Maasai, the Lodge is a unique blend of world-class luxury, timeless volcanic splendour and ethnic style.
The unique design of Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge continues in the restaurant and bar with magnificent examples of prehistoric cave paintings found in the nearby Olduvai Gorge. The full-service lounge has an outdoor balcony and a fixed telescope for guests' use. Fresh fruit juices, soft drinks, tea and coffee, cocktails, wines, spirits and liqueurs are available to guests throughout the day. It is a cosy place enhanced with comfortable easy chairs to relax in after a long safari or before and after meals.
As for the views, from lilac-streaked sunrise, to indigo star-studded night, the immeasurably ancient Ngorongoro Crater delivers a theatre of vistas, most unchanged since the dawn of time.