Featured Places
Machweo Retreat
Arusha
Day 1: Arusha
Just outside of Arusha, but away from the chaos and mayhem of the city you will find Machweo Retreat - a true sanctuary of tranquility and a real hidden gem. Only 7 minutes driving away from Arusha town center and 30 minutes from Kilimanjaro International Airport, this is the ideal place to recharge your batteries after your flight or enjoy some serious pampering before or after your safari adventure or climbing expedition.
Unwind by the pool with a cocktail or relax in the wellness center where you can enjoy a massage or take a sauna or hammam.
Enjoy an amazing meal in the critically acclaimed restaurant by star chef Axel and his team. Mixing local influences with classic French cuisine and only working with the best and freshest products, every bite and every sip will be an experience for your senses.
The accommodation consists of 6 cottage suites, lavishly furnished and ideally positioned for maximum privacy, featuring separate sitting and living area, each accommodating up to 3 guests. All rooms offer top class amenities and a private balcony and have amazing views of Mount Meru.
The beautiful main building also houses 3 lovely Honeymoon Suites. The sand colored walls and floors combine perfectly with the wooden tailor-made furniture and create a soothing atmosphere. Some African artifacts decorate each room in a subtle way. Every Honeymoon Suite has a private sitting area to take in the amazing view.
If you have time during your stay, you can also go on a coffee tour to a local organic and Fair Trade coffee farm, or visit the local primary school which is supported by Machweo Retreat n collaboration with the iThemba Foundation.
Example Details For Machweo Retreat
Nights: | 1 Night | ||
Adults: | 2 | Children: | 0 |
Room: | 1 x Cottage | ||
Includes: | Breakfast is included. |
Machweo Retreat Location.
Check In / Check Out
Rooms may normally be occupied from 14:00 on the day of arrival and must normally please be vacated by 11:00 on the day of departure for the convenience of arriving guests.
General Information For Guests
Children of any age are welcome.
All room have a double kingsize 4 poster bed, a TV, minibar, safe, complimentary Wi-Fi and a balcony.
The honeymoon suites each have a luxury bathroom with a bath tub and walk in shower.
The cottages feature a separate sitting and living area.
Guests can book a wellness treatment in the comfort of their own room - pre-booking is essential.
There is a swimming pool, lounge and bar and restaurant.
Oliver's Camp
Tarangire National Park
Days 2 - 3: Tarangire National Park
Established by pioneer Paul Oliver in 1992, Oliver's Camp is situated in the remote south-eastern reaches of the Tarangire National Park. Reflecting the glory days of African safaris, the camp has a low-key simplicity enhanced by discreet creature comforts and truly welcoming hosts.
This relatively undeveloped Park - enjoyed by safari travellers looking to head a little off the beaten track - offers a welcome respite from the crowds of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Tarangire boasts large herds of elephant and buffalo, plus a large concentration of big cats and arguably the best bird diversity in East Africa with more than 500 species. During the dry season from August through to October, vast herds of wildlife migrate to the watery wetlands on the fringes of Oliver's Camp, and at this time, Tarangire boasts the highest concentration of mammals in any of Tanzania's renowned National Parks.
With a reputation for fantastic guiding, twice daily game drives in open game-viewing vehicles head out in the cooler mornings and evenings. The open vehicles have power points and are fitted with fridges to keep your drinks cool. Closed game-viewing vehicles are also available.
Walking safaris are, however, the absolute speciality of Oliver's Camp. The privilege of walking in these natural areas gives you an exhilarating feeling of adventure, and a safari on foot can take an hour or a whole morning or afternoon, depending on what you want to do.
There are 10 luxury tents at Oliver's Camp in total and all feature kingsized beds and en-suite bathrooms with a lovely outdoor shower with views of the surrounding area. The tents also have thatched roofs and private wooden desks with day beds. There is also one family tent specifically designed to accomodate 2 adults and 2 children. Larger than the usual tents, the emphasis here is on creating enough space to accommodate a family without anyone feeling too cramped.
In the main area, deep leather sofas invite you to relax and watch the restless wilderness beyond. Meals are taken communally in the dining room, while around the camp fire whiskies are poured and safari tales told late into the night.
Example Details For Oliver's Camp
Nights: | 2 Nights | ||
Adults: | 2 | Children: | 0 |
Room: | 1 x Safari Tent | ||
Includes: | Game Package: Tarangire National Park fees; all meals; local branded beverages; shared twice daily safari game drives with an Olivers Camp guide; and a laundry service are included. Please Note: As the animals are wild, it is not possible to guarantee what you will see during your safari. |
Oliver's Camp Location.
Check In / Check Out
Rooms may normally be occupied from 14:00 on the day of arrival and must normally please be vacated by 11:00 on the day of departure for the convenience of arriving guests.
General Information For Guests
Children aged 6 years old and older are welcome. Families with children under 12 must book a private game-viewing vehicle.
The tents all feature king-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms with an outdoor shower, and views of the surrounding area. Hot water is always available and provided by solar heaters. The tents at Oliver's have thatched roofs, in-room safes, and private wooden decks with a day bed. The tents have the option of being twins and doubles, and there are also 2 triple tents available on request.
The main area has a large viewing deck, a lounge, communal dining room, breakfast deck, and a firepit. The camp has solar and generator power and battery charging facilities.
Activities offered at Oliver's Camp include game drives, night drives and walking safaris.
Other activities available at an additional cost include balloon safaris and fly camping.
The fly camp is typically booked as part of a walking safari or simply as an exclusive and private night away from the main camp. This small and intimate lightweight camp is a fantastic experience for those seeking something a little more adventurous.
Private vehicles are available at an additional cost.
A laundry service is included.
The Highlands
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Days 4 - 5: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Highlands redefines the Ngorongoro experience, raising the bar for low-impact yet high-style camps. Carefully positioned for maximum privacy high on the slopes of Olmoti Crater to the north of the Ngorongoro Crater, The Highlands strikes a perfect balance between a true wilderness experience and a stylish contemporary escape.
The Ngorongoro Crater is an iconic natural wonder of the world. The crater was formed when a large volcano exploded and collapsed on itself two to three million years ago. The enclosed caldera is a thriving ecosystem in itself and home to some of the richest wildlife viewing in Africa, with an estimated 30,000 animals within the crater rim.
Other activities include climbing the Olmoti Crater for outstanding birding opportunities and magnificent views, descending the nearby Empakaai Crater to view the pink flamingoes on the soda lake on the crater floor, or visiting a neighouring village to meet the local Maasai people.
Inspiration for the 6 spacious canvas-and-glass domed suites was drawn from the traditional Masai bomas that dot the landscape. Each suite has floor-to-canvas-ceiling bay windows opening out onto spectacular views which reach all the way to the Serengeti. There is also a wood burning fireplace and plenty of cosy blankets and rugs for warmth in the colder months, and an en-suite bathroom with separate flush toilet and double-headed plumbed shower. Some also have a mezzanine floor where a third bed can be set up.
The main dome of the Family Tent is a standard double suite with a covered walkway leading to a smaller domed suite with twin beds and an en-suite shower room for the children. The Honeymoon dome emphasises privacy, rest and relaxation, with a kingsize bed, en-suite bathroom with a double headed shower, as well as wood burning fire place for warmth in the colder months. In addition, there is a seating area, large elevated deck, and an outdoor hot tub which looks out over the beautiful landscape of Ngorongoro.
At the heart of the camp is an authentic indoor fireplace designed to emulate the traditional East African campfire experience. Delve into the library or enjoy a drink from the extensive bar and unwind in comfort and style at the end of each rewarding day.
Example Details For The Highlands
Nights: | 2 Nights | ||
Adults: | 2 | Children: | 0 |
Room: | 1 x Tented Suite | ||
Includes: | Game Package: Crater fees; all meals; all drinks (except champagne, cellar wines, premium brand spirits); NCAA camping fees; a laundry service; scheduled game drives with a Highlands guide and lunch on the crater floor; Olmoti and Empakaai Crater hikes; a Masai cultural visit; and transfers to/from Manyara airstrip are included. Children aged 16 years and older can visit the Olmoti and Empakaai craters. Please Note: As the animals are wild, it is not possible to guarantee what you will see during your safari. |
The Highlands Location.
Check In / Check Out
Rooms may normally be occupied from 14:00 on the day of arrival, and must normally please be vacated by 11:00 on the day of departure for the convenience of arriving guests.
General Information For Guests
Children aged 5 years and older are welcome. Children aged 16 years and older can visit the Olmoti and Empakaai craters.
Each tented domed suites have en-suite bathrooms with hot running water, showers and flushing toilets, and wood-burning stoves for the cold winter evenings. Two also have a mezzanine for a third bed. There is also Wi-Fi, a hair dryer, safe, electrical outlets, and balcony/deck.
The family tent can accommodate 2 adults and 2 children. The main dome is a standard double with a covered walkway leading to a smaller dome with twin beds and en-suite shower room for the children.
The Honeymoon dome emphasises privacy, rest, and relaxation, with a king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom with a double headed shower, as well as wood burning fire place for warmth in the colder months. In addition, there is a seating area, large elevated deck, and an outdoor hot tub which looks out over the beautiful landscape of Ngorongoro.
The camp consists of a lounge tent, extensive bar, communal dining tent and terrace. Credit cards are accepted.
Room service can be requested.
The Highlands is approximately 4 - 4.5 hours drive from Arusha and 2 -3 hours from Lake Manyara Airstrip, and just over an hour's drive to the entrance gate to the Ngorongoro Crater.
The Highlands offers a range of activities:
Olmoti climb
Starting directly from camp, the Olmoti climb follows an ancient Masai cattle trail through mountain forest, grasslands and rocky outcrops. Make the most of outstanding birding opportunities and the chance to see a vast array of butterfly species. At the top, you are rewarded with a magnificent view of the crater below. It is about a 2-3 hour round walk from the camp and back again.
Empakaai descent
Descend into the Empakaai crater accompanied by a ranger and walk to the sparkling soda lake on the crater floor, famous for the pink flamingos that congregate on its shores. Because of the camps proximity to Empakaai, it is the only property that gives you the opportunity to make this a half-day excursion.
Community and cultural visits
Spend the afternoon with the local Masai in one of the neighbouring villages to learn about the traditional way of life that has defined this corner of Africa for centuries. School visits may be possible depending on the time of year.
Bush Walks / Walking Safaris
Children aged 16 years and older can visit the Olmoti and Empakaai craters. The final decision on whether a guest can join a guided walk to the Olmoti and Empakaai craters remains with the guide and camp manager.
Dunia Camp
The Serengeti
Days 6 - 7: The Serengeti
Tucked between the prime wildlife areas of central and southern Serengeti, the semi-permanent Dunia Camp combines elements of style and luxury with an incredible wildlife experience. Run by a team of only women, the camp's secluded setting in the Moru Kopjes is a tranquil retreat, and the area itself is one of the most scenic parts of the Serengeti.
Weathered wood, sturdy canvas and elegant linens make the mess tent comfortable and atmospheric, while brass hurricane lanterns add a flicker of traditional charm. Settle into one of the old leather armchairs and watch as the sun drops behind the iconic granite outcrops before sitting down for dinner in the beautiful mess tent or outdoors under the stars.
The Great Migration passes through at certain times of the year, but year round the region is also especially known for its abundance of lion, leopard and cheetah and the rare chance to see the illustrious black rhino. Half day or full day game drives take guests across the plains in search of the Serengeti's wildlife, in the company of an experienced guide.
Guests can also book a memorable morning balloon safari during their stay here.
Dunia Camp has 8 spacious raised tents with fantastic views from the veranda where morning coffee can be enjoyed. The tents all feature king-sized beds and en-suite bathrooms.
The family tent consists of a main room with king-sized bed and a separate smaller room with 2 single beds. Each room has an en-suite bathroom with shower and share a large verandah with view out towards the kopjes.
Example Details For Dunia Camp
Nights: | 2 Nights | ||
Adults: | 2 | Children: | 0 |
Room: | 1 x Safari Tent | ||
Includes: | Game Package: Serengeti National Park fees;all meals; all drinks (except champagne, cellar wines and premium brand spirits); a laundry service; scheduled open vehicle game drives; walking safaris; and transfers to/from Seronera Airstrip are included. A private vehicle with a driver-guide can be booked (minimum 2 days) - quote on request. Please Note: As the animals are wild, it is not possible to guarantee what you will see during your safari. |
Dunia Camp Location.
Check In / Check Out
Rooms may normally be occupied from 14:00 on the day of arrival and must normally please be vacated by 11:00 on the day of departure for the convenience of arriving guests.
General Information For Guests
Children aged 5 years and older are welcome. Walking safaris can be done by children of 16 years and over - children below this age can only participate in walks at the discretion of the guide.
Each tent has a kingsized bed (twin beds are available), en-suite bathroom with a shower and flushing WC. There is also a safe in each tent, plus a USB charger and battery-charging facilities.
The family tent consists of a main room with a kingsized bed and a separate, smaller room with two single beds. Each room has an en suite with a flushable toilet and plumbed shower. They share a large veranda with views out towards the kopjes.
The camp has a lounge area, mess tent and viewing deck. Wi-Fi is available although the service is variable.
Activities available include twice daily game drives, bush breakfasts, picnics and dinners.
Balloon safaris or a photographic vehicle can also be arranged (additional cost).
Dunia utilises both open vehicles (with canvas roof and canvas sides that can be rolled down if it rains) and closed vehicles (with closed sides but windows and roof hatches that allow you to stand). Rain ponchos and Masai blankets are available to keep you comfortable if it is wet or cold. All Dunia Camp vehicles have power points where you can recharge your devices, and are fitted with fridges to keep your drinks cool. Please note that guests who arrive with their own driver-guide will use their own vehicle for game drives, and NOT the Dunia Camp vehicles.
The camp is a 45 minute transfer from Seronera Airstrip.
A laundry service is included.
Matemwe Retreat
Zanzibar
Days 8 - 12: Zanzibar
Matemwe Retreat offers 4 exclusive private villas set high up on an outcrop amid palm trees, all with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean.
Days at Matemwe Retreat are all about indulgence, from the private butler catering to your every whim, to the chef stopping by each morning to discuss your preferred menu for the day. In the evening, savour dinner in your villa cooked by your private chef under the stars or stroll down to the main lodge for a seafood buffet in the open-air restaurant.
Stone Town is just 60 minutes from the villas, allowing for easy day trips into the winding streets of the historic town, and excursions to all corners of this fascinating island.
A 30 minute boat ride away is Mnemba Island and the world-renowned coral reef that provides some of the most spectacular diving and snorkelling in the world. Here you will have a good chance of seeing turtles and wild dolphins, in addition to the colourful reed fish that dart around the coral.
Other water-based activites include kite surfing, stand up paddleboarding, and sailing trips.
The 4 villas are set just metres from the Indian Ocean and are situated above a small beach which is shared by all guests staying here.
The villas were constructed by local craftsmen using local materials wherever possible - walls were made of local stone and the roof of Makuti thatch. Most of the furniture was made from locally produced coconut wood, while the soft furnishings were produced by Zanzibari women.
The ground floor of each villa features a private bar area, air conditioned bedroom and a bathroom with double basins, shower and a large oversized bathtub overlooking out towards the ocean.
A spacious veranda with a comfortable couch and large hammock is the perfect spot to unwind and watch the fishing dhows return from their day at sea. The private roof terrace hosts a plunge pool complete with both sun and shade decks.
Example Details For Matemwe Retreat
Nights: | 5 Nights | ||
Adults: | 2 | Children: | 0 |
Room: | 1 x Private Villa | ||
Includes: | Breakfast, lunch and dinner; tea/coffee, water, and all drinks (except cellar wines and premium brand champagne and spirits); a laundry service; snorkelling with boat (one trip per person); guided reef walks; and guided cultural village walks are included. PLEASE NOTE: The rate excludes the USD 5.00 per person per night Infrastructure Levy - this is payable directly to the hotel IN CASH upon check out. |
Matemwe Retreat Location.
Address
Matemwe Retreat,Along Matemwe Beach, North-East Coast
Check In / Check Out
Rooms may normally be occupied from 14:00 on the day of arrival and must normally please be vacated by 11:00 on the day of departure for the convenience of arriving guests.
General Information For Guests
Children of any age are welcome.
The villas all have their own private terrace with a personal bar and plunge pool. They also have king sized beds, air conditioning, an in-room safe, butler service and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The spa offers a great range of wellbeing treatments and massages either at the spa or in the comfort of your room (additional cost).
The open-air restaurant sits just above the ocean, with magnificent views of the palm-fringed beach and gently rocking dhows. Seafood is a speciality of the house, and all produce is bought daily from local fishermen and markets.
The swimming pool is surrounded by lounge chairs and there is also a poolside bar.
Activities available include kayaking, reef walks, kite-surfing, sailing trips, fishing, visits to the local village, and snorkelling at the famous reefs of Mnemba Atoll. As with many sea-based activities, timing is governed by the tides and water levels.
Activities that are available for an additional charge include dhow trips, visits to Stone Town and spice tours.
Scuba diving courses can also be arranged (additional cost).
A laundry service is included.
Credit cards are accepted.
Tanzania has a large Muslim population on the island of Zanzibar. Modesty of dress is expected when outside the hotel's grounds. Trousers are entirely acceptable, but short skirts and bare arms should be avoided. Scarves must be worn over the head (and shoes removed) when entering a mosque.
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