Tanzania is certainly not a simple destination to sum up. From far-reaching savannahs sprinkled with wildlife and white sand beaches to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring scenery and even forests filled with chimpanzees, there’s truly a bit of everything. And the places to stay are as varied and wonderful as the locations themselves! We’ve rounded up our favourite tents, lodges and beach retreats to create a list of best boutique hotels in Tanzania.
Legendary Lodge
Arusha
Arusha is the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, and you’ll likely spend at least a night or two in this quaint city overlooked by Mount Meru. It might be a ‘city’ but this one is more about peaceful rivers and pretty old farms peppered with trees than skyscrapers. Legendary Lodge is located on a coffee plantation and is the definition of charming with its lush gardens filled with frangipani and jacaranda trees. The luxury cottages all have King-sized beds and fireplaces, and there’s even a spa for working out any travel woes with a massage. You can even enjoy a spot of croquet on the lawn if you’re looking for something to do on a balmy afternoon! Arusha might be known as a stopover destination but we’re pretty sure Legendary Lodge will make you wish you’d stayed just a little longer.
The Highlands Camp
The Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa’s Natural Wonders, and the crater, created by a volcanic explosion millions of years ago, really is something to behold. The scenery is jaw-dropping, but the fertile earth also makes it a haven for wildlife and there are animals as far as you can see. So, where to stay? The Highlands might have a traditional name that’s got you thinking of khaki safari tents, but actually, it looks like something from outer space – in the chicest possible way. Eight, igloo-like domes sit amongst the thick forest, each one packed with cowhide rugs, tartan blankets and a wood-burning stove to keep you toasty. At the three main area domes, there’s a library packed with books, a bar serving funky cocktails, and a dining room for tasting local delicacies. We’d move in if we could!
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
Serengeti
Singita Mara River Tented Camp is the kind of place that takes your traditional idea of camping and turns it on its head. There are no roll mats or soggy campfires here and instead, you can expect chic tents that blend canvas, wood and linen, all located in the northernmost corner of the Serengeti in the Lamai Triangle. Inside, there are huge beds with crisp, white bedding you’ll want to take home, playful geometric artworks and gorgeous open-air bathtubs – what better way to take in views of the Mara River? A Singita staple, the dining options are also out of this world and the chefs are known for their modern African flavours. Head to the pool sala for a mezze board, or join your fellow safari-goers at the fire for snacks and tapas. This is the Great Outdoors, but in serious style.
Pole Pole
Mafia Island
Looking for a blissful island to escape the hubbub of life? Welcome to Mafia. This picturesque island is home to all manner of beach hideaways and one of our favourites is Pole Pole. This is a place with its own brand of luxury: a beach-front location, a remote paradise to explore, and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean never far away. There’s not a sniff of pretension here and the lodge is made simply from wood and thatch. The beach bungalows are private and serene and perfect for whiling a day away in, but there’s also an island bar to sit back and relax with a cocktail or two, as well as plenty of daybeds scattered around. If you can peel yourself off you lounger, most activities are centred around the ocean – and there are plenty to choose from. Mafia is also a mecca for divers and if you get your timings right you can swim with whale sharks, the gentle giants of the ocean.
Jabali Ridge
Ruaha National Park
If you want to see all the wild charm that Tanzania has to offer, Ruaha National Park is the place. The area’s remoteness means very few tourists and lots (and lots) of game viewing. Did you know that Ruaha is home to the largest elephant population in Tanzania, and almost 10% of the world’s lions? In the midst of it all is Jabali Ridge, a chic and stylish safari camp that’s the epitome of far-flung luxury. Strikingly-beautiful from the outside, the rooms are carved from the boulders of the Ruaha landscape, and all the rooms are angled to make the most of the views across the wilderness, particularly striking at sunset when they’re bathed in that warm African light. The sleek interiors have all the mod cons you could wish for and there’s also a spa and an infinity pool to laze by between adventures, romantic dinners amongst the breathtaking landscapes, and picnics out in the wild to complete this incredible safari experience.
&Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is petite by Tanzanian standards, but it still manages to pack in a host of astounding landscapes, Big Five wildlife-viewing, tree-climbing lions, more birds than you can shake a stick at (over 400 species to be precise) and those famous flamboyances of flamingos too! Now that we’ve sold you on the area, make your way to the treetop haven that is &Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge. It’s the only lodge inside the park and perched high in the trees, amongst the lush green foliage and chattering birds, the chalets are sure to fulfil your every childhood treehouse fantasy. Wake to the sounds of the swishing trees around the thatched roof, and then fall into the bathtub to admire your surroundings a little more. The cosy communal spaces will beckon to you after a busy morning spent in the bush and there’s a pool to idle by with a good book, a cushy lounge to curl up in and a boma with a crackling fire to gather around.
Chem Chem Lodge
Tarangire National Park
Chem Chem Lodge is the personification of a chic, boutique Tanzanian safari stay. Step inside your room and you’ll be welcomed by beds piled high with sumptuous linens, an opulent ensuite bathroom with both indoor and outdoor showers and a deep tub for soaking in, and a stylish dressing room and writing desk. The luxuries of the tents are reflected throughout the lodge, with plenty of plump, neutral-hued sofas begging for you to flop down in, coffee table tomes and stylishly distressed furniture scattered around. To top it all off, Chem Chem specialises in crafting unique, once-in-a-lifetime guest experiences like hot air balloon safaris, running with the local Maasai, walking safaris, private dining experiences and getting involved with local conservation projects – and that’s on top of the fabulous game drives.
Fundu Lagoon
Pemba Island
A beach escape away from the crowds, Pemba is the destination for those in the know, and for accommodation, few places appeal more than the boutique barefoot luxury of Fundu Lagoon. A Robinson Crusoe-style haven, the lodge’s wooden frame and thatched roof allow it to blend perfectly into the island forest, adding to the allure… It’s also the place to be for divers in search of exciting underwater finds – Pemba has long been a favourite for those who enjoy life under the sea – and Fundu is perfectly set up to help you discover the turquoise waters. For those who don’t want to get quite so wet, there are sunset cruises, fishing trips, and kayaking adventures amongst the mangroves, not to mention sun loungers in every corner and a team at the spa, waiting to iron out any kinks. So that’s something for those who want to recharge and something for those whose activity mode is firmly set to ‘explore’. Ideal.
Greystoke Mahale Camp
Mahale Mountains
Set deep in the Mahale Mountains and far, far away from real life, Greystoke Mahale Camp is a place like no other. Blissfully wild and remote, the distinctive ‘winged’ camp is surrounded by forest and perched on the edge of Lake Tanganyika. You might be lakeside, but you’ll feel as though you’ve landed on a fairytale island with powdery white beaches, candlelit dinners by the lapping water, and sunset dhow trips. And whilst the setting is already incredible, there’s even more hiding under the surface – and that’s the activities. Kayak across the lake towards the Congo at sunrise, walk the forest trails and learn about the medicinal uses of the plants and of course, trek to find the troops of chimpanzees that hide in the trees. Seeing chimps in their natural habitat is an experience of a lifetime, and alongside the experts at Greystoke Mahale, this is the place to do it.
Kilindi Zanzibar
Zanzibar
Sitting pretty just 35 kilometres off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is a heady blend of beach getaway, history, spice-scented streets, and adventure. And what better place to stay than Kilindi, a Middle Eastern-inspired property that speaks to the island’s history and grounds you in the culture that permeates Zanzibar. The chic design of the rooms will immediately relax you and is almost guaranteed (along with the nearby lapping waves), to send you into a blissful sleep every night. And whilst the design might be simple and stunning, the service and luxury extras are anything but. Every pavilion can expect a private butler, two private plunge pools, and views that will make it almost impossible to leave. Then there’s the exquisite food, tropical gardens, spa, direct access to a powder-white beach…
