Lake Manyara Tree Lodge Review – Providing An Exclusive Experience

Nestled amongst the branches of mahogany trees deep in the southern forests, Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is the only permanent accommodation in the small but fascinating Lake Manyara National Park. Go out in search of tree climbing lions or relax at the Massage Sala as elephants and outrageously large baboon troops pass right below the wooden platforms.

I stayed at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge and had a fantastic time. My room was comfortably furnished with impeccable views of the forest canopy from my balcony and the hotel staff were professional and friendly throughout my stay. 

In this article, I'll share my best insights for what to expect during your stay at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge and why this hotel is popular amongst tourists and ranked as one of the best Tanzania hotels and most exclusive resorts for safaris. 

Let's begin. 

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge Review

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge has ten tree-house suites, sustainably constructed from local timber and makuti palm fronds that look out into the forest canopy. The interiors are spacious and furnished with natural materials and subtle colours, creating a seamless transition from the room into the surrounding greenery. 

A wellness-centred approach gives guests the perfect chance to unwind and enjoy the exclusivity and memorable experiences like luxury safari tours that andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge has to offer.

Important Information at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Please take note of this important information during your stay at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge.  

Check-in time: 2 PM

Check out time: 10 AM

Safety: Dangerous game area, so no walking around after dark without a guard

Child Friendly: yes, no age limits, but safaris are recommended for children over 12

Services: Babysitting

Location And Views At Lake Manyara Tree Lodge 

Getting to Lake Manyara Tree Lodge 

There are scheduled daily flights from Arusha Airport and Dar es Salaam to the Lake Manyara airstrip.

From Lake Manyara airstrip, you will drive for about 3.5 hours through Lake Manyara National Park while looking out for animals on your way to the lodge.

Views

The suites are raised 10 feet above the ground and have gorgeous views of the forest canopy. 

Nearby attractions at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge 

There are two notable local attractions that tourists can enjoy during their stay at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge:

• Mayoka Community - Rent a bike for a scenic ride through the village and along the shores of Lake Manyara.
• Mto wa Mbu Town - Close to the entrance of Lake Manyara National Park, the culturally diverse town is home to people from 120 different East African tribes.

Rooms at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

The suites at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge are built around mahogany trees and raised high enough for an elephant to walk under, which they often do! Vervet monkeys are frequent visitors to the decks and bush babies may keep you up with their nocturnal antics.

Interior

The forest surroundings are cleverly brought into the interior lodge décor with palm frond ceilings, banana leaf chains and natural colours and textiles. The beds are draped in white mosquito nets and each suite has a sofa and overhead fan. En suite bathrooms include indoor and outdoor showers, his and hers porcelain basins and free-standing tubs. 

Family Suites

There are two en suite rooms (one Double room and one Twin room) connected by a living area designated for families. These Family Suites sleep 2 adults and 2 children. A bed for an extra child can be accommodated on request. 

Tree House Suites

There are 9 stilted tree-house suites with large windows and open decking along the front that gives the sense of being part of the forest. Rooms can be set as double, single or triple according to the guest's preferences.

Amenities at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Curio shop

The lodge curio shop sells a selection of African craft items.

Pool

There is a small oblong-shaped pool surrounded by wooden decking, sun-loungers and umbrellas where guests can frolic during their stay. 

Massage Sala

Massage Sala is an open-sided room located in a peaceful spot away from the main buildings. Guests can enjoy healing therapies and treatments using organic products. Treatments in your suite and couples massages are also available to provide a more intimate setting.

Gym-in-a bag

There are no gym facilities at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, but a gym-in-a-bag is provided in each room with a selection of equipment and workout guides.

Perks

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge offers the following perks for its hotel guests: 

Personal Butlers - Personal attendants make your stay memorable with special set-ups, bubble baths and other surprises in your suite. 

Laundry - Get your clothes cleaned at no extra charge by a professional laundry service. 

Other Amenities

Other amenities at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge include:

• WiFi*
• Swarovski binoculars to use during your stay (great for balcony views and game drives)
• Plug points*
• Ping Pong Table

Food and Drinks at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge

Hotel guests have access to several high-quality options for dining at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge. 

Dining 

The dining room is directly below the lounge/bar area on the ground level of the main lodge. The spacious dining area has no sides with some tables set up on the decking under open skies. There is an interactive open kitchen design so guests can watch food preparation or get involved in cooking with specialised cooking classes offered at the lodge. 

Boma

Lanterns create a warm atmosphere when the sun sets for outdoor dining and traditional barbecue-style meals in this traditional boma encircled by dugout canoes.

Breakfast

The lodge offers a buffet style breakfast of fresh fruit, cereals, yoghurts, cold-meats, freshly squeezed juice and smoothies as well as hot menu options. You can also take a packed breakfast for early safari drives. 

Lunch

Guests can enjoy a packed lunch of sandwiches, fruit, hard-boiled eggs and biscuits or eat at the lodge with a selection of freshly prepared dishes.

Dinner

Three-course dinners are served from 7 pm at the lodge. Menus vary and are usually announced earlier in the day with time to make changes. You may arrange for a private dinner in the massage-house or on your deck.

Lounge Bar

The top of the 2-level communal area is built on raised platforms. The open-sided lounge has a well-stocked bar, comfortable couches and coffee tables scattered with guidebooks to the surrounding areas and wildlife. A waiter is on hand to top up gin and tonics.

Conclusion

And that's a wrap on my Lake Manyara Tree Lodge Review! I hope your next trip starts with a stay at one of the best and most luxurious safari hotels in Tanzania.