It’s a two-hour drive from Arusha and an ideal base for excursions to Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire and the Serengeti. The little town serves as a resting point or stopover for travellers taking a break from exploring safaris within the region. Karatu is a town that offers relaxation with a blend of cultural adventure.
The best accommodation in Karatu:
High on a hill in rural Africa and at the same time located in the very heart of the northern Tanzania safari circuit, Rhotia Valley Tented Lodge breathes the atmosphere of true Africa. It has only fifteen tented houses, each with their own veranda and beautiful view. The bathroom is with hot and cold running water, shower and flush toilet. This charming lodge offers personal service and tasty fresh food. By staying at Rhotia Valley Tented Lodge, you directly contribute to the wellbeing of the children of the adjacent Rhotia Valley Children’s Home.
Price range: $120 to €170 pp (fullboard)
Gibbs Farm is a colonial farmhouse, situated on a picturesque coffee estate just outside the town of Karatu and midway between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater. It is a charming luxurious lodge, set amongst the most beautiful gardens. Cosy and spacious cottages with private verandas and stone fireplaces scattered in the spacious grounds. While coffee is still grown, processed and roasted on the farm, a vast fruit and vegetable garden provides almost all of the fresh delicious meals. Gibbs Farm is a green oasis of peace.
Price range: $410 to $550 pp (fullboard)
Plantation Lodge is a beautiful small lodge, set in lush, tropical gardens, surrounded by coffee plantations. The privately owned and run lodge comprises 17 spacious and tastefully furnished rooms in African Style with en-suite bathrooms. The rooms offer elegant luxury. All of them have their own balconies with views either over the Ngorongoro Highlands or the beautiful gardens that surround the property. Relax at the swimming pool and enjoy the quietness and great personal service.
Price range: from $968
Ngorongoro Farm House is set in the heart of a 500 acre coffee plantation with lush hills and beautiful scenery. It is a popular Africal travel lodge with views of the massive Oldeano Volcano towering on the edge of the Great African Rift Valley. The lodge offers a capacity of 50 spacious room cottages built in the style of an old colonial farm. All rooms featuring a small terrace, large beds and fully equipped bathrooms. The main lodge area is under a larger thatched structure with bar and dining area where all meals are taken. Just 5 km away from the crater gate, Ngorongoro Farm House is a perfect base to explore the crater.
Price range: $117 to $200 (fullboard)
This former Dutch farmhouse is set high in the Ngorongoro Highlands, just outside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The views over de coffee plantations and highlands are wonderful. The luxurious Manor offers 20 Afro-European style cottages spread across the gorgeous garden. Each room has its own, private terrace, indoor and outdoor fireplace and a beautiful bathroom with bath and huge showerheads. The reception, restaurant and lounge are located in the old farmhouse. Additional facilities include a small cinema, billiard room and spa. The Manor has an relaxing atmosphere and offers great service and delicious food.
Price: from $680 pp sharing
Feel free to mix and match the different accommodation styles to create your dream safari!
Contact us for advice or a tailor made quote.
