Plantation Lodge
Plantation Lodge is a mid-range accommodation located outside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in northern Tanzania. The lodge is about 20 minutes’ drive, or 12 km, from the Ngorongoro entrance. It is also close to Karatu village in the Ngorongoro Highlands.
The lodge sits on 5 acres of land. It is surrounded by a lush, colorful garden with mature trees and plants. Its location offers easy access to some of Tanzania’s best-known national parks and wildlife areas, including:
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Lake Manyara National Park
- Tarangire National Park
- Serengeti National Park
How to Get to Plantation Lodge
Plantation Lodge is easy to reach from Arusha and other parts of northern Tanzania.
By road
The drive from Arusha takes approximately 3–4 hours on a tarmac road. The route passes through Makuyuni and Karatu before reaching the lodge.
By air
You can also fly to Lake Manyara Airstrip. The flight from Arusha takes about 45 minutes. From the airstrip, the lodge is about a 20-minute drive.
Airport transfers can be arranged to take guests from the airstrip to the lodge.
About Plantation Lodge
Plantation Lodge Ngorongoro has more than 10 spacious rooms and suites. The rooms are designed in a modern style while maintaining a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.
Many rooms have views of the beautiful gardens and surrounding area.
Rooms and Facilities
The rooms are well decorated and furnished for comfort. Room facilities include:
- Private en-suite bathrooms
- Flush toilets
- Hot and cold showers
- Mosquito nets
- Comfortable wooden beds
- Clean bed linen
- White pillows and duvets
- Free bottled water
- Slippers
- Safety equipment
- Satellite TV
Some rooms also have private terraces, verandas, and sitting areas. These provide a relaxing place to enjoy views of the gardens and surrounding area.
The lodge has different room categories and sizes. Options include:
- Single rooms for individual travelers
- Double or twin rooms
- Family rooms
- Group accommodation
Services and Facilities
Plantation Lodge offers a range of services and facilities for guests.
Restaurant
The main building has a restaurant serving a variety of meals. The menu includes international and African-inspired dishes.
Guests can enjoy their meals in different settings, including:
- The restaurant
- The garden
- The verandas
- Bush dining locations
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are available. Meals are served by friendly and well-trained staff.
Bar and Lounge
The lodge has a well-stocked bar and shared lounge. Guests can choose from a variety of drinks, including:
- Cocktails and mocktails
- Local and international wines
- Spirits
- International beers
- Soft drinks
The lounge provides a relaxing place to enjoy a drink while looking over the colorful gardens and surrounding area.
Swimming Pool
Plantation Lodge has a blue-water swimming pool where guests can cool off during warm afternoons.
Poolside beds and chairs provide a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the surrounding views and fresh air.
Other Services

Other services and facilities include:
- Solar power
- Free parking
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Laundry services
- Housekeeping
- Bottled water
- Wi-Fi internet
- Children’s playground
- Massage services
- Honeymoon packages
- Conference facilities for seminars and business meetings
The Wi-Fi hotspot helps guests stay connected with family and friends during their stay.
Activities at Plantation Lodge
Guests can enjoy several activities at and around the lodge.
Popular activities include:
- Visiting local villages
- Nature walks in the forest
- Bird watching
- Playing tennis
- Playing football
- Relaxing in the gardens
- Swimming
The lodge’s location also makes it a convenient base for exploring the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and nearby northern Tanzania safari destinations.

