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#5 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.
Set in 50 acres of virgin Tanzanian bush in the Ngorongoro volcanic landscape, this all suites wood log cabin style retreat is located a few steps from the Game Reserve Gate and 20 minutes drive away from the Ngorongoro Crater that is said to have the most dense concentration of wildlife in Africa. This all inclusive property features 20 spacious private log cabins with fire place, a restaurant, a bar and conference facilities. Indulge in moments of relaxation at the swimming pool or at the Mvua African Rain Spa after a full-day game drive.
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Nestled in a location celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and ideal for safaris, Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge receives high marks for its elegant and luxurious atmosphere. Guests are charmed by the spacious, immaculate rooms that boast cozy fireplaces and stunning views.
While opinions on value vary, with some guests questioning the cost-to-service ratio, the majority laud the hotel for its exceptional cleanliness, attentive service, and the memorable experiences fostered by the kind staff. Amenities, including gourmet dining, also contribute to the lodge's popularity among travelers.
Location
Picturesque
Atmosphere
Elegant
Rooms
Spacious
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Meticulous
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Lavish
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Absolutely beautiful property! Within 20 minutes of arriving, we knew we should have booked 2 nights here instead of just 1 night.
The plan was just passing through for a night and half day game drive on our way from Serengeti to JRO. I should have planned for 2 nights here to maximize our time enjoying everything the property had to offer.
The level of service here was undeniable and unexpected. The food was spectacular and the room (villa) was spacious, clean and unique. I loved sitting on the back porch listening to the baboon troop up the hill at sundown. I felt like I was in a Costa Rica rain forest, it was such a scene change from Serengeti.
The main restaurant area and bar was beautiful designed and comfortably furnished. The thatch roofs and wood work was beautiful and fit the rainforest safari feel with the various wood burning stoves. The atmosphere was relaxed, cozy and intimate.
The staff was above and beyond and extremely friendly.
When we arrived after a long (5 hour drive from central) the staff had already set up a lunch table and fed us before doing any check-in. It was a touch that was very much appreciated.
The turn-down service included the lighting of the fireplace within our room and few other above and beyond touches. It was a very comfortable room. The bed and linens are soft and the crisp night air was a welcomed change from the warm and dusty central Serengeti.
The food was fresh and many/most/all of the vegetables were coming from the gardens. The menu included local spices and traditional Swahili dishes and other options such as spaghetti, penne, and greek salads. It was fresh comfort foods paired with local cuisine and the best warm breads!
Neptune arranged our driver from central Serengeti, a game drive in the crater and personally handed us off to our final destination near JRO airport (3.5 hour drive).
Our game driver was excellent, we were able to find rhino's in the crater and he provided great service and knowledge. From the hotel to the actual crater gate was a 1 hour drive in the morning. It is about 35 minutes back since the exit is situated closer to the hotel.
The house vehicle was a new Lexus SUV. This was such a nice change from riding in the game drive vehicles after a week plus. Our driver was Neptune employee who was very nice and a great driver on the crazy Tanzanian roads.
When we come back to Tanzania, we will be staying here again for 2 nights so that we can really take in the property and all it has to offer.
Overall, exceptional experience that was surprisingly in cohesive with that we experienced at Lemala and Elewana properties and far better than the Four Seasons.
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Date of stay: August 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Keep in mind it is an hour to the actual crater gate for game drives but Neptune will send you...
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 Neptune Team, Sales at Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge
Responded Aug 12, 2023
Dear valuable Guest, Sunny greetings from Neptune Hotels. Thank you for your open feedback. As a part of the leisure hotel industry, we are dependent on our customers' opinions. Many thanks for letting us know your experiences. We look very much forward to welcome you again in one of our Beach Resorts or Safari Lodges. Yours faithfully, The Neptune Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This lodge was the third lodge during our 9 day adventure. It worked out great because it is only 5 minutes away from the entrance to Ngorongoro Crater so we were able to get in right when the park opened. The grounds are beautiful! And the staff was very nice. The manger met us upon arrival with warm wash cloths for our hands and signature drinks. The food was delicious! I loved the snack trays they bring to you while you’re in the main lodge sipping a cocktail. The room was so nice! It gave me vintage safari vibes and I loved it! The outside deck has beautiful views! Notes: The room provided shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, cotton balls, and fresh glass bottled water. A blow dryer was also provided. Laundry service was NOT included but it wasn’t too expensive. We put our laundry in the basket in our room at night and it was picked up the next morning and returned to us that evening at turndown service. We stayed in July and it was very chilly at night and in the mornings. It was cold in the dining room and in our room. I would highly recommend a fleece or light down jacket. When you sit down for dinner make sure you ask your server that you would like a fire lit in your room. We asked the first night, but the second night a gentleman came to our table and asked if we would like a fire lit and when. They also provide a small heater in the bedroom. Between the fire, the heater and keeping the bedroom door closed it was perfect temperature.
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip 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 Neptune Team, Sales at Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge
Responded Aug 12, 2023
Dear valuable Guest, Sunny greetings from Neptune Hotels. Thank you for your open feedback. As a part of the leisure hotel industry, we are dependent on our customers' opinions. Many thanks for letting us know your experiences. We look very much forward to welcome you again in one of our Beach Resorts or Safari Lodges. Yours faithfully, The Neptune Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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This lodge is absolutely spectacular! This may just be one of the nicest accommodations I’ve ever stayed in anywhere. The lodge itself is situated within an amazing natural reserve with access to the wildlife and breathtaking scenery. It is also a short drive to the famous crater. Our room was exquisite…extremely spacious, beautifully decorated, and impeccably clean and has every amenity you could want and need. The hot water bottles with turn down service is a nice touch and they will even come and light the fireplace in the bedroom if you want. The shower is enormous with great water pressure and plenty of hot water. The views from the spacious balcony is lovely. The hospitality from the entire staff was outstanding…everyone was so cordial and kind. The international cuisine in their onsite restaurant was fabulous… we had the best veggie spring rolls appetizer I’ve ever eaten anywhere. It’s a shame we only had 1 night here as this place is very special. I can’t recommend this lodge enough.
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Date of stay: July 2024Trip 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.
Neptune Luxury Lodge is one of the most remarkable places we have ever stayed at in Africa. Ideally located near Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area. With only only twenty free standing luxury wood cabins in beautiful grounds this feels intimate and spacious. Each three roomed cabin has amazing views across the rainforest where you can watch Elephants, Waterbuck and Baboons from your private balcony almost every day. They have access to fantastic guides who are equally sensitive to the needs of tourists and the animals - ask for Raja. The Ngorongoro Crater is a spectacular safari location …… we saw every wild African animal you could wish to see, some at very close quarters. We stayed at the Lodge for eight days and experienced the best customer service ever. The staff were fantastic and couldn’t do enough for us - attentive, friendly and creative. Food and wine, both traditional Tanzanian and familiar European, was plentiful. The pool and gardens immaculate. Martina, the amazing reservation manager is one of the leaders of a happy, outgoing team that make you feel part of the family. Be prepared to be reminded what customer service really is.
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Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:You must go ! Spend more then a couple of nights there,
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.
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We were warmly welcomed by the staff and were impressed from the very first moment by the stylish buildings, the fantastic gardens and especially by the huge bungalow, which left nothing to be desired. The view from the private terrace is incomparable: out into a wide, wooded valley, where we were able to observe 3 elephants. The location on the outer crater is an advantage: when it is covered in clouds, you still have a clear view from the Neptune.
The food was excellent and the chef conjured up an Indian à la carte menu of the finest quality for us upon request.
We can highly recommend the Neptune Ngorogoro.
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip 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.
There are not enough superlatives to describe Neptune Ngorongoro: proximity to the park entrance, immaculate grounds full of beautiful flowers, sumptuously decorated log cabin style spacious suites, gourmet meals - management and staff leave no detail to chance and make sure every guest has the best stay. The night wasn’t cold at all, yet we opted for lighting up the fireplace in the living room and bedroom and did not regret it. A hot water bottle in bed was a special touch as well.
I was very touched that the team made quite an effort wishing me a belated birthday with a cake, candles and a lovely song and dance - moments like this are forever etched in my memory. We stayed only for one night but I can’t wait to come back. Asante sana!
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Date of stay: February 2025Trip 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.
After our unforgettable journey through the Serengeti, our next destination was the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, where we were welcomed with traditional songs and dances by the Masai people upon our arrival at the Neptune Luxury Lodge. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere instantly set the tone for our stay.
Stepping into the lodge, I was immediately struck by its elegant and thoughtfully curated design. We were promptly ushered to our table with a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains, where we indulged in a sumptuous lunch that delighted our senses.
Following our meal, we were guided to our accommodations, which exceeded all expectations. The spaciousness of our hut, resembling a luxurious one-bedroom home minus the kitchen, was a refreshing change after days spent in the wilderness. The meticulously manicured yard added to the sense of tranquility and sophistication.
Throughout our stay, the staff went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction. Our server, Nobert, was a shining example of hospitality, with his charming, engaging, and humorous demeanor. He made certain that we never went hungry, attending to our every need with warmth and enthusiasm.
Overall, our experience at Neptune Luxury Lodge was nothing short of magical. From the impeccable service to the breathtaking surroundings, every moment was filled with wonder and delight, leaving us with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
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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.
Another wonderful stay. I stayed at Neptune in March of 2022 when Covid was still creating travel issues so I was curious how my second stay would be-it was just as wonderful as my first stay. The lodge was full and busy with people on this trip, but you wouldn't know that because the property is so spacious that you really don't hear other guests. The grounds are just stunning with gorgeous flowers, plants, and birds everywhere. Each room is enormous-far more space than two people need with a bedroom suite and a separate sitting room with a small fireplace in each room. The view from our balcony looked out over the pool area and the nearby mountains. Our room was very well-maintained and clean as was the large bathroom. There is plenty of space to unpack and organize your things if need be and the lodge will do laundry for you. The common areas are beautiful with amazing views over the mountains. The food is wonderful-Chef John is just terrific. Be prepared-the portions are huge so you definitely won't go hungry. The lodge also provided a lovely lunch for our day in the crater and a nice breakfast box as we had to leave early to catch a flight. I highly recommend Neptune and would certainly stay here again on my next trip to the Crater.
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Date of stay: September 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.
I return to Neptune Ngorongoro regularly and am very happy to bring my clients here as well. The resort meets exactly my ideas of combining luxury accommodation with local style and a very pleasant, unpretentious atmosphere. Absolutely perfect location in relation to the Ngorongoro Crater (only 3 minutes from the entrance gate), a view of the valley through which animals travel (including elephants to the crater), a garden complete with a coffee plantation = well-being and relaxation. The rooms are generous and the large covered terrace only complements the excellent facilities for your relaxation. I always feel "like at my cottage" here. Boarding - full board with drinks (drinks throughout the day) is absolutely sufficient. Decent cuisine - excellent ingredients (some from our own garden), excellent preparation and very pleasant service. For me, Neptune Ngorongoro is a great choice.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled on business
Room Tip:Rozhodně zůstaňte alespoň na tři noci
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.
Fatal, it's a want and I can't. The service is good, but not a 5 star, the rooms are nice and big, but it loses a lot, the pathetic bedding, old, full of balls, weight, clothes. No. of 5 stars The fridge in the room does not work well and that I stay on the way to Serengeti and on the return, 2 rooms each reservation and no The second time we returned to the hotel, the pillows we had ordered 4 days earlier, were gone, the extra bed we asked to be made inside the room and not in the lounge the first time, surprise, again was made outside. THEY ARE NOT A 5-STAR HOTWL! What saves them are the views that are breathtaking, the place is wonderful, but they do badly. It's a robbery, they charge you a lot of money and you don't get what you pay for. Furniture from the reception desk, like old sofas, sits and you go to the bottom. The food is fairly regular, it is not a 5-star, there are menus made and you choose one option from each, but it is not an extensive menu, nor a 5-star service. It is a shame, because the view is beautiful from the room, but I would never recommend coming to this hotel to someone who knows what it is and is looking for a top 5 star service (which is what they sell you) Special mention to Veronica, who was our Camarena and tried hard and did very well. Total disappointment
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Date of stay: December 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.
There are more places to choose from in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area area.
PRICE RANGE
C$1,110 - C$2,165 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Exploreans Ngorongoro Lodge
LOCATION
TanzaniaArusha RegionNgorongoro Conservation Area
NUMBER OF ROOMS
20
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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