Rhotia Valley Tented Lodge

The traditionally-built lodge sits perched on a ridge overlooking the Ngorongoro Forest, a green valley of local farms, and the children's home on the opposite hill. The main thatched building contains a simple lounge with a few cosy sofas around the fireplace, and a dining room (with Wifi!) leading out to a pretty swimming pool. There's also a herb and vegetable garden whose produce goes straight to the kitchen, and a bakery that supplies the lodge, school and orphanage.

Fifteen tents include twelve doubles, one triple and two family units that sleep four. They're more functional than luxurious, but definitely comfortable enough. Raised on wooden decks with views over the forest, they stay nice and cool under thatched roofs. Inside, furnishings are simple: twin or double beds, a wicker chair and a luggage rack. A few locally-made throws add a bit of colour. At the back of the tent is an ensuite bathroom with a toilet and a shower, divided by a bamboo shield.

Make sure to stop off at the Coffee Corner's terrace. The little cafe, owned and operated by the lodge, not only serves delicious fare using ingredients from the garden, but also provides intensive training for six students from the surrounding community. And the views are superb.