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#6 of 18 campsites in Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Location
Rooms
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
LEMALA NGORONGORO is an intimate camp set in a delightful ancient acacia forest on the rim of the crater, next to the quiet Lemala access route. The camp has 12 spacious canvas tents to ensure intimacy and minimal impact on the pristine forest environment. The tents accommodate two queen beds with winter weight duvets and hot water bottles. The tents are warmed in the evenings by a gas heater, ensuring a cosy night's sleep. The roomy en-suite bathrooms contain a dressing area, flush toilet and a large safari shower.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Quaint
Languages Spoken
English
Location
Ngorongoro, Ngorongoro Conservation Area 00000 Tanzania
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Nestled in a prime safari location, Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp charms many with its serene and intimate atmosphere, amplified by campfire songs and comfortable, versatile rooms. Visitors rave about the unique 'talking showers', comfortable beds, and the camp's cleanliness, though there's a single note of caution regarding bed linen.
Despite mixed views on value, particularly concerning food and laundry services, guests are unified in their appreciation for the camp's exceptional service, with staff members frequently commended for their warmth and attentiveness.
Location
Convenient
Atmosphere
Intimate
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Mixed
Cleanliness
Mixed
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Well-appointed
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We are a family of four and spent a very enjoyable 4 nights here in two tents in late August. The location of the camp is fantastic, situated under a canopy of acacia trees close to the crater rim. Setting off following a fairly early breakfast will ensure that you are one of the first visitors to reach the crater floor. The staff are all excellent. You are always greeted with a smile and a “Jambo!” Nothing is too much trouble for them. I would like to give a special mention to our tent attendant Nick who woke us each morning with a cup of coffee and lit the gas heater. He also always ensured that we had a very welcome ‘talking shower’ on our return to camp each evening and that there was plenty of hot water made available for the shower and the wash basin. The tents were very clean and spacious with two very warm and comfortable double beds and an en-suite bathroom area separated by a canvas screen. The shower and WC have their own cubicles and the flushing toilet is a welcome bonus! An electronic security safe with PIN code is also provided. As mentioned in other reviews it does get cold outside at night but we were extremely snug with the gas heater lit in the tents in the mornings and the evenings. Hot water bottles were also placed in our beds prior to our return from dinner each evening. Plugs for charging electronic devices were not available in our tents but each tent has four dedicated charging points available in a drawer in the mess tent. WiFi is also only available in this area of the camp, but it is very slow, so checking your emails is about the limit of what you can do. The service in the restaurant was faultless. Every breakfast and dinner that we were served was delicious. ‘Seconds’ were also available if required. Complimentary red and white wines were available during dinner and complimentary alcoholic beverages were also provided for a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ and after dinner whilst relaxing around the fire pit. I can say with certainty that our stay here exceeded all of our expectations and we couldn’t have been happier with the overall experience. We had the holiday of a lifetime!
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Date of stay: August 2024
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Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A perfect base for a full day's safari at Ngorongoro Crater - all expectations exceeded on the edge of this very spiritual and atmospheric location in East Africa. We enjoyed two nights in the Lemala Camp - an inspired choice for our 9 day Tanzania trip with Yellow Zebra/Wilderness. The drive from the main Reserve gate of around one hour to the Lamai Gate on the eastern rim was great fun. Our Wilderness guide, Regina, knew every pothole on the drive and missed every one! The drive through the forested country was truly magical - native bush that must have been untouched by man for millenia. The camp itself had a wonderful location in the middle of the acacia forest - much more basic than our next stop at Lemala Kuria Hills, but with great charm because of that, and as comfortable as you could wish. Our "butler", Toumaini, was attentive in extremis, especially with provision of hot water for ablutions and with room prep for the cool nights. One needless concern was the facility to charge electronic items - catered for very effectively in the communal tent. Our 10 hours in the crater were magical and unforgettable. Difficult to choose photos, but a few of the less obvious ones attached.
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Date of stay: October 2024
Value
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Location
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Lemala Camps, Owner at Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp
Responded Jan 1, 2025
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience at our camp! We're thrilled to hear that you had a memorable time with us. We strive to provide an unforgettable experience, and it's wonderful to know that our efforts have made a positive impact. Your feedback is greatly appreciated, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure in the future. We appreciate your lovely comments for Regina and Toumaini, we shall pass your message to them. If there's anything we can do to improve your next visit, please don’t hesitate to let us know. Safe travels, and see you again soon!
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The location near the descent road (which is less busy than some of the other descent roads) cannot be beat. We were able to be some of the first people on the crater floor and enjoy excellent lighting and no crowds. The surroundings from the camp are very beautiful and lush and while there isn't a view of the crater, we did not miss it since it was still so gorgeous and unique. The camp employees are all so kind and talented. I was extremely hesitant about bucket showers but it turned out to be just fine and they are very flexible and quick to respond whenever you wish to have a shower. The food was all very good and we quite enjoyed the packed lunches.
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Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tesna Simonsen, Other at Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp
Responded Mar 19, 2024
We are so pleased to hear that you are now a "talking shower" convert 😄 We are thrilled that we exceeded your expectations and honestly hope to welcome you back one day.
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This was our favorite of the 4 Lemala properties in which we stayed. Something about it felt extra special and it was because of the staff. They seemed genuinely happy to have us there. They even sang to us upon our departure. We were the last ones to leave camp that day and all the staff came out to see us off. The genuine smiles and positive energy of the people is something we will remember forever. The food was delicious and the room attendant was very helpful and prompt. I wasn't feeing well on our last night so the longer/hotter shower and bush baby (hot water bottle in bed) were much appreciated. The location of the camp was amazing for getting in to the crater earlier than others which meant a less crowded experience to see the animals. Our last day on safari in the crater was our favorite for the number and variety of animals we were able to see. We did not use a Lemala guide so we can't speak to that, but we were very pleased with our accommodations, service, and food at the camp. It was also the only one of the camps which honored our 3 bed request which gave us the best nights' sleep of the whole trip. Thank you SO much! Would definitely recommend staying here.
The only things I can think to recommend is 1)to have a better set up in front of the individual tents to prevent people from bringing mud in to the tent on their shoes and 2) provide robes. It can be a bit chilly in the tent and a robe would help. Minor issues given everything else was amazing . Thanks again!
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Date of stay: January 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Take boxed lunches to maximize time on safari. Get up at the earliest time to get in to the...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tesna Simonsen, Other at Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp
Responded Feb 7, 2024
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us such wonderful feedback. The team were delighted to hear your kind comments and we all hope to welcome you back one day soon, especially as you were a bit under the weather on your last night! We have been experiencing some unprecedented rains which has made it a bit more muddy than usual but appreciate the valuable feedback and have shared this with our ops team (including the robes). Thank you for choosing Lemala and wishing you all the very best.
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Lemala N’goron’goro is located halfway down the slope of the volcano, which makes entering the caldera very quick compared to the other camps which are located at the rim farther around the volcano.These numerous camps use another gate, closer to the rim of the caldera, which makes getting into the caldera very slow because of the distance to the floor and because it’s crowded. All the vehicles are attempting to get into the caldera through this bottleneck as early as possible for the best wildlife viewing. Using this alternate gate, we were early into the caldera where we saw 4 of the “Big 5”, including a rhino, the first hour! The lodge provides well-equipped tents with running water, flush toilets, and wooden floors. The bucket shower is unusual but effective and comfortable. There are convenient shelves for storing clothes and other items. Since it can be quite (read VERY) cold at night, a space heater is lit for a while each night to chase the chill away and “bush babies” (hot water bottles) are placed in your bed in the evening to keep you warm during the night. A thick terrycloth robe is a welcome bit of warmth both morning and night. The restaurant serves delicious food, presented elegantly. The chef was very flexible in preparing food for one of my granddaughters who has a restricted palate. (She’s very picky.) A special champagne lunch was served to us on the floor of the caldera.
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Date of stay: June 2024
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Location
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Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:It can be really cold at night and early mornings. Bring a heavy heavy jacket or sweatshirt.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tesna Simonsen, Other at Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp
Responded Aug 23, 2024
Thank you so much for your kind words. We are very blessed with our location and are thrilled that you were able to enjoy the advantages of getting to the crater floor earlier than other travelers. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your time in camp and thank you for choosing Lemala.
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We enjoyed our stay at Lemala Tented camp although my family are pleased it was only two nights. Just simply because it’s cold in the mornings and cold at night after the sun sets. We didn’t have enough layers or clothes for sitting having dinner when it’s only 9 degrees C (48F). To make it comfortable you need a hat gloves and scarf, hat and warm jacket. Don’t be fooled. It’s cold here when it’s dark.
The camp occupies a beautiful location on the rim and is ideal for your safari access in and out.
We stayed in the family tent 1 night and then two separate tents night 2. Family tent has its own electric sockets for charging but the other tents do not. The family tent is also located close to the main tent so has WiFi access too. If you are a family of four then the family tent is ideal.
The Lemala team are outstanding and work hard to meet your every need. Praygod was our tent assistant and he was excellent. Even brought us tea and coffee in bed. It’s not easy leaving the warm bed in the mornings!
Food was good considering they are preparing this in a tent! Quite remarkable. We have some dietary requirements and fussy eaters and all request were dealt with and we were happy with the food.
The talking shower (a man providing buckets of hot water while you shower that you talk too) hot water bottles, gas heaters all add to the experience and try and keep you comfortable while camping in the cold.
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Date of stay: July 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Family tent has electric supply for charging your devices and has wifi access from main tent. ...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tesna Simonsen, Other at Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp
Responded Aug 23, 2024
Thank you so much for your kind words. We are thrilled that Praygod was such a hit with your family and happy to hear that you enjoyed the food. Wishing you all the best - the Lemala team.
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Oh what's not to like!! We had a lovely "African massage" journey to the camp following our arrival at a nearby airport (we flew from Arusha, highly recommend!). Roads are bumpy, but you will appreciaten the close proximity to the crater when you head out on an all day safari. The camp is truly amazing! The tents are luxurious with cosy beds, bed linen, blankets and "bush babies/hot water bottles, room heaters). The "talking shower" is very welcome to wash away the safari dust...hot and available at any time that suits you. It's "colder" in the crater than most other places you will visit...so be prepared!!! Pack your fleece, a cosy jacket, a scarf...no need to be stylish...just be cosy and warm...you will appreciate it when sitting round the firepit and in the dining area. Food was nice and plenty of it...you won't go hungry!! This was our 1st Lemala camp (stayed in 2 others)....and we have to say that the ambience here was the best!!! Staff were so very welcoming, enjoyed chatting to everyone! We really enjoyed our 2nights here. So many staff to say thankyou to...you were all so kind! We have to thank Issiah & Joseph ("our Massai warriors) for teaching us Swahali animal sounds...."lion & hyena"...and for escorting us to and from our tents. You made great "fires" for us, showed us the stars, kept us safe, showed us so much kindness. We loved you both and are so grateful to have met you. An amazing place...amazing staff...amazing memories!
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Date of stay: September 2024
Value
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Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We had the pleasure of staying here for 2 nights! The camp is situated in a beautiful Black Acacia forest at the top of the Ngorongoro Crater. The staff were amazing and very attentive to each of their guests. Staff always came out to greet you each time you depart and arrive. The manager of this camp was super friendly and very professional and you can tell he really cared about each and every one of his guests.
The food was good, but not the best we've had at the tented camps we have stayed at, but that being said, one lunch was pork satay and it was extremely delicious! Keeping in mind that being at the top of the crater, maybe it's a bit harder to secure different goods. But, their soups were the BEST we have ever had! Very strong soup game! Also, they took food allergies very seriously, which was beyond amazing!!
Since you are out in nature with no fences, sometimes the baboons get curious and come to the camp. For this reason, they hired people from the Maasai tribe as security to escort you around at night to keep you safe.
The tents were very big and had a decent bathroom. The floors were a little unsteady as this is a semi-permanent camp. And the shower is definitely a experience as this was my first time with a talking shower! You need to order a shower to your room and they will bring hot water outside and be there to adjust the temperature for you as you take your shower.
Our room was always turned down for us at night and they even gave us champagne for our honeymoon! It can get very chilly at night but they offer you extra blankets, hot chocolate, a heater and a hot water bottle in your bed, which does actually stay hot/warm all night!
Being in a true bush camp, you have to expect some things to go wrong, but when they did, staff were there to fix it right away! We had a few issues with our toilet flushing, hot water in the sink and the room heater and everything was fixed promptly by staff!
Every night they had a campfire with drinks, which was such a fun touch! And yes, they did also give you blankets for sitting around the fire too!
There is no power or wifi in your rooms other than a few lights, but there is in the main dining tent. This definitely allowed us to unplug a little more and enjoy our stay!
This was a great experience and I'm glad we got to stay here.
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Date of stay: January 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This is a tented camp in the Ngorongoro park, and for its location and limitations, this place was great. The tent was luxurious for sleeping accommodation, with hot water bottles and heater (which we needed in October, as it gets a little cooler at nights at this altitude). There was a hot shower, sink and toilet in the tent. The one issue with this camp was the water access, although given the facilities, it is understandable. The shower is a bucket shower, meaning you don't get a lot of water for a shower (someone will pour a large bucket in for you to use). Sometimes the toilet or sink didn't work if there was no water. The staff were very pleasant and friendly, and the food was very good. They provide snacks before dinner, and most people hung out near the main tent to take advantage of charging/wifi. The fire pit was a nice touch.
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Date of stay: October 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip:Because of the elevation up on the crater rim, expect cooler temperatures in evenings and...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our safari had many stops, but the Ngorogoro was our first. Since it was our first, we didn’t have any other camps to compare with, and we followed the instructions we were given by the camp manager and our travel agent to tip the recommended amount in the main tip box to be shared equally. However, after finishing our safari, we realized what an amazing job our first tent attendant handled for us. Praygod is his name — and he handled our family tent (2 tents w/ a living room in between) to perfection. He helped us with piping hot “talking showers”, and made our family feel so comfortable in this new and unfamiliar setting. I wish we had given him an extra tip for his great service.
Comments for future travelers: - Don't be worried re: the safari showers: there is plenty of HOT water, the toiletries are excellent, and it's very easy to use! The attendant is right outside if anything goes wrong (which nothing did) - Bring your own hair dryer if you hair needs to be dried (I get headaches if I let my hair airdry) - Even though the day hours are dry and super hot, the early AM and late afternoon game drives are very chilly -- so bring fleece jackets/scarves/beanies.
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Date of stay: July 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Tesna Simonsen, Other at Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp
Responded Aug 23, 2024
We are thrilled to hear you enjoyed your time with us and that Praygod looked after you so well. Thank you for your advice for future travelers - a nice warm fleece is definitely recommended for those early mornings. Thanks for choosing Lemala and wishing you all the very best
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Its about 7 mins drive from our property down to the crater floor. We do have game drive vehicles at our property so you simply need to book in advance or through your travel agent or tour operator
There are more places to choose from in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area area.
PRICE RANGE
C$1,549 - C$2,601 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
lemala ngorongoro hotel ngorongoro conservation area
LOCATION
TanzaniaArusha RegionNgorongoro Conservation Area
NUMBER OF ROOMS
10
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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