Karatu Simba Lodge
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Karatu Simba Lodge

THE LODGE

 

Welcome to Karatu Simba Lodge where you’ll experience the peace and quiet of the Tanzanian countryside. Karatu Simba Lodge is located about a thirty-minute drive from the gate of Lake Manyara National Park, approximately four kilometres off the main road to the entry of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Situated deep in the farming area of the Karatu district and nestled rightalongside the Ngorongoro Forest—home to elephant, buffalo, hyena, and other wildlife—Karatu Simba Lodge offers fine hospitality for safari travellers.

 

On the way to Karatu Simba Lodge you may pass farmers herding cattle, sheep and goats or bullock carts hauling crops or water. Fields of barley, wheat, beans, legumes, corn and sunflowers create a mosaic of colour and texture ending at the deep green forest wall, which undulates in hills and valleys up to the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, visible in the distance. On arrival you’ll receive a warm welcome from the lodge staff, a refreshing drink and a towel to rinse away the dust of your journey.

LOCATION

 

Karatu Simba Lodge is about 135km from Arusha.

 

ACCESS

 

2 Hr Drive from Arusha by road, via A104 and B144.

ROOMS

COTTAGES

Accommodation at Karatu Simba Lodge is in individual twin, double or triple cottages or rondavels with canvas walls and solid attached bathroom and shower, tastefully and simply decorated with hand made furniture of African hardwood. Each unit has its own deck with safari chairs for relaxing and viewing the pastoral setting; from which you may see a troop of baboons foraging in the recently harvested barley fields or local ‘cowboys’ tending their herds. Fall asleep to the call of the bush baby and Montane nightjar.

 

All rooms have a view to the forest, fields and far distant hills. Rooms at Karatu Simba are beautifully and simply decorated with local fabrics and hard wood furniture; the beds all have mosquito nets. Full amenities are provided and rooms are solar powered with solar heatedwater; there isa power strip for battery charging.

  • Each room has a torch (flashlight) and umbrella for you to use during your stay with us. A whistle is also provided in case you need to alert the security guards.
  • As the solar lighting may be dimmer than you’re used to, we highly recommend you bring a headlamp or ‘book light’ for reading in bed at night.
  • Due to our solar electrical system it’s not possible to use a hair dryer at Karatu Simba. We kindly request that you don’t attempt to plug in a hair dryer as in all likelihood it will blow the system resulting in loss of power to the entire lodge.

DINING AND WINING

Our location in the fertile farming area of the Karatu District is a real plus when it comes to preparing meals for our guests. The time from farm to table is short and we can source the best and freshest produce, eggs, coffee and other ingredients for our kitchen. At Karatu Simba Lodge we serve continental cuisine with an occasional sample of local dishes. Our well-trained chefs are eager to please and are always looking for new and innovative recipes to share with you.

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

 

Breakfast is always a buffet of coffee, tea and hot chocolate, juice, a selection of cereals, fresh fruit, muffins or pancakes with eggs (with sausage and bacon) cooked to order. Oats porridge (oatmeal) is available on request.

 

Most guests go out for the day with a lunch box and we work hard to provide a lunch box that stands out from the herd! If you choose to have lunch in the lodge you’ll be served a selection of salads, quiche and pizza or on colder days heartier fare such as a casserole, curry or spaghetti.

 

Depending on how many guests are staying with us dinner may be served to the table or on the buffet. On the buffet there is always a vegetarian entrée. Please advise us as early as possible for any special dietary requests

AMENITIES AND FACILITIES

 

Swimming Pool WITH Deck

 

Free Wireless Internet Connection(WIFI)

 

 Laundry Service

 

 Bar / Lounge

ACTIVITIES

Karatu Simba Lodge is conveniently located midway between Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater near the bustling town of Karatu, home to the Iraqw tribe. It’s possible to visit a traditional Iraqw homestead, a local brick factory, the town market and other areas of cultural interest. If you’re looking for a good hike there are areas to explore or just take a village walk. Many of the below activities may already be on your itinerary and your safari guide will accompany you. Or, contact us in advance for suggested activities and prices.

  • Game drives in Lake Manyara National Park
  • Visit nearby Ngorongoro Crater
  • Birding on the lodge grounds
  • Visit Lake Eyasi and the interesting tribes there
  • Cultural activities in Karatu
  • Guided walks to Ngorongoro Forest and elephant caves
  • Enjoy the swimming pool at the lodge
  • Nightly campfire at sundown

ON MAP