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Activities on Site
Big 5
Bird Watching
Fine Dining
Game Drives
Game Viewing
Game Walks
Gourmet Picnic
Massages
Safaris
Walks (Guided)
Activities Nearby
Big 5
Bird Watching
Game Drives
Game Viewing
Game Walks
Safaris
Safari game drive in Ngorongoro
TRAVERSE THE FLOOR OF AN ANCIENT CALDERA
The essence of a safari game drive
Game drives descend into the Ngorongoro Crater through a lush highland forest, with magnificent birdlife to be spotted among the different tree species. Once on the grassy crater floor, you may discover a large variety of grazing herbivores, as well as the predators that are attracted by this abundant supply of prey. Depending on the time of year, you may see huge flocks of pink flamingo around the shores of the shallow Lake Magadi, while the surrounding swamp is inhabited by hippo. Safari vehicles are closed, with glass windows and a pop-up roof. Off-road driving is not permitted.
The crater has formed its own ecosystem due to its enclosed nature, and is one place where you can certainly tick all the boxes. Sublime scenery, abundant wildlife, it’s very own distinctive
Lerai Forest comprised of yellow fever trees and Lake Magadi, a shallow soda lake. Roam to the east and you will find Gorigor Swamp and the Ngoitokitok Springs where happy pods of hippo can be found. The north of the Crater is where the bulk of the resident game resides thanks to the drier, open grasslands.
If you are after the ‘The Big Five’, it is all here waiting for you. Black rhino, Tusker elephants, lion, leopard and hyena along with healthy herds of wildebeest, buffalo and zebra. Other wildlife includes serval cat, cheetah, jackal, Grant’s and Thompson’s gazelle, flamingo and bat-eared foxes, as well as approximately 400 species of colourful birds
A cultural visit to the Hadzabe bushmen
Spend the day with the Hadzabe people, ancient hunter-gatherers who inhabit the land near Lake Eyasi, a gorgeous soda lake that’s part of the Great Rift Valley of East Africa, and witness their unchanged, traditional way of life and harmony with the earth. Accompanied throughout by an &BEYOND ranger, guests have the opportunity to engage with the Bushmen and learn all about their time-honoured hunting techniques, survival skills, food preparation and cultural norms. A veritable step back in time, this is an undeniably authentic cultural journey into rural Tanzania that reveals the untold world of these charismatic people.
Amongst the world’s last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes inhabiting the scrubby bushland, Hadzabe men search for food alone, and return home with golden honey, sweet fruit, or hearty wild game when, and if available. Women go out in large groups and forage for bright berries, baobab fruit, and tubers, depending on availability. In the rainy, wet season, sweet honey is the main staple of their diet along with colourful fruit, tubers, and sometimes meat.
Adjusting their diets to the seasons this tribe are incredibly skilled, selective and opportunistic seekers and searchers. They have only themselves to rely on to feed their families and tribe.
Lunch banquet on the Crater floor
DINE IN THE NGORONGORO CRATER, AN ANCIENT VOLCANO
The essence of a lunch banquet on the Crater floor
Indulge in a gourmet feast served in one of the most unique settings in Africa. Descend into the scenic landscape of the Ngorongoro Crater and enjoy the incredible density of wildlife before making your way to a private picnic spot on the Crater floor. Tables set with snowy tablecloths and sparkling silver cutlery are laden with the most delectable of dishes. An army of butlers’ springs into action to attend to your every wish as you indulge in a mouth-watering meal served against the backdrop of groups of zebra strolling along the Crater floor.
Enveloped with a tangle of wild plants the steep slopes of an extinct volcano in northern Tanzania, betray little of what lies inside the crater wall. Known as “the garden of Eden” or “the cradle of life”, the crater floor is dotted dark, only when the spots of shifting formations begin to move, does it become clear. Massive amounts of grazing wildebeest and zebras and in the shallow Crater Lake pirouette huge flocks of bright pink flamingos.
One of the largest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, the list of species existing in the Ngorongoro Crater is enormous. One can find 50 different species of large mammals, including lions, elephants, rhinos, hippos, giraffes, eland, impala, baboons, warthogs and hyenas. Boasting such a diverse variety of animals in the relatively small space of this beautiful crater, with its lush green grasses and stunning blue w
Full day Empakai Crater hike
TAKE A HIKE IN THE EMPAKAI CRATER AT NGORONGORO CRATER
The essence of a full day Empakai Crater hike
This full-day hike explores the dramatic Empakaai Crater. With a lake on the Crater floor and the entire caldera encircled by a steep, densely forested wall, Empakaai is a scene of vast natural beauty. On clear days the Crater offers views of Ol Doinyo Lengai, Tanzania’s most recently active volcano. The steep slope calls for a degree of fitness, but the walk through the lush forest, with its ancient strangler figs and rich birdlife, is well worth the effort. The trail continues to the lakeshore, where you can view water birds such as flamingo.
Take a peak back in time.
TOUR OF OLDUVAI GORGE AND SHIFTING SANDS IN TANZANIA
Visit the world famous archaeological site of Olduvai Gorge, also known as the Cradle of Mankind. The earliest remains of homo sapiens were discovered here by Mary Leaky and anyone with an interest in mankind’s ancestors will be fascinated by this extraordinary place. Explore the quaint little museum and marvel at the rugged landscape. This paleoanthropological site in the eastern Serengeti Plain is a steep-sided ravine composed of two branches that have a combined length of about 48 km and are 90 metres deep. Deposits exposed in the sides of the gorge cover have yielded a treasure trove of fossil remains.
Move on to the Shifting Sands, a remarkable dune of volcanic ash appearing completely out of place on the short grassy plains. Constantly on the move, the dune drifts slowly across the landscape at the mercy of the prevailing winds. Intriguing and utterly fascinating phenomena, these crescent-shaped dunes, created from volcanic ash, are formed when there’s ample dust on the ground and a unidirectional wind to create the shifting effect. Clustering around a rock, the volcanic ash continually gathers and forms what appears to be a small sand dune.
Safari game drive in the Serengeti National Park
GET FRONT ROW SEATS TO THE GREAT MIGRATION IN THE SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
The essence of a safari game drive
At &BEYOND, game drives are tailored to suit your preference, with a choice between shorter, twice-daily drives or one full-day game drive, with a stop for a picnic lunch. The game drives are carefully planned to anticipate the progress of the Great Migration, so you should not have to travel too far to see the vast herds. However, if the Migration has moved off, or the dramatic river crossings are in progress, you may choose to spend more time on the vehicle in order to maximise your chances of seeing this incredible phenomenon. When the Migration herds are not within easy reach, &BEYOND’s properties are perfectly situated in some of the most remote and beautiful corners of the Serengeti, with game drives setting off in search of the exceptional resident game. Game drives are conducted in the Serengeti National Park, so off-roading and night drives are not permitted.
Maasai cultural visit
MEET THE MAASAI OF OLOLOSOKWAN IN THE SERENGETI
The essence of the Maasai cultural visit
An adventure to the Serengeti wouldn’t be complete without meeting the enchanting Maasai. This wonderful cultural excursion will immerse you in the fascinating ancestry of these noble people. At the Maasai village playing host to your tour, you will have the opportunity to meet with a Maasai family, visit a traditional boma, the village huts (called Manyatta), made of cow dung and clay plastered over stick frames, and perhaps venture to a local school or clinic. If you would like to extend your half-day adventure, and turn it into a full-day’s exploration, you can experience a day in the life of a young Maasai or, for an authentic interaction, watch a bloodletting ceremony. It is an extraordinary reality how the Maasai people live in the heart of the bush, with warthogs foraging and elephants trumpeting just on their periphery.
The most famous of Africa’s people, these fierce warriors are still practicing their ancestral way of life and are known for their pastoral traditions, living off their herds of cattle, sheep, goats, and donkeys. Since time immemorial the Maasai moved nomadically in search of water and pasture for their herds. Today they have established permanent settlements, and many of the Maasai do not roam. They still exist on a diet of milk, blood, and meat, however, it is becoming very common place to supplement their diet with grain. The few Maasai left today still coexist collectively with the profuse wildlife.
Olduvai Gorge & Shifting Sands Tour (Additional Cost)
Explore the breathtaking surrounds of the archaeological site of Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of mankind, best known as home of the earliest remains of homo sapiens, discovered by Mary Leaky. Move on to crescent-shaped volcanic ash dunes knows as Shifting Sands, which slowly creep across the desert floor in response to prevailing winds.
Additional costs apply
Honeymoon Rose Petal Dinner (Additional Cost)
The ultimate romantic experience, your private dinner begins with a long soak in a hot bubble bath large enough for two, from where you can admire magnificent views of the Ngorongoro Crater. From there, a carpet of rose petals leads to an elegant table set up just for you in the privacy of your opulent suite. Attentive yet discrete, your personal butler serves up a delicious feast, prepared by the lodge’s professional chefs and accompanied by a bottle of the finest French champagne.
Minimum 2 guests. Two weeks notice period.
Available at an additional charge
Private Sundowners on the Rim (Additional Cost)
Make a toast to the setting sun with a refreshing sundowner cocktail at Gorgor (walking distance from the lodge), on the rim of the Crater. You will also be accompanied by 20 Maasai warriors who will serenade you with their traditional chants and songs. Expect unforgettable views and exceptional photographic opportunities.
Minimum 6 guests; maximum 20. One month’s notice required. Weather dependant.
Additional costs apply
African Drummers (Additional Cost)
Experiencing the rhythm of African music is one of the most unforgettable experiences. This group of local drummers provides great entertainment to guests, whilst also sharing their unique culture. The traditional music of Tanzanian cultures is given its melodic drive by a marimba (also called a mbira), a type of instrument that is unique to Africa. Weather dependent and exclusivity cannot be guaranteed. Performance takes place on the lawn in front of lodge. Minimum one months notice required.
Available at an additional charge.
Crater View Walk (Additional Cost)
This popular late afternoon walk along the western rim of the Ngorongoro Crater allows guests to experience various natural habitats, including the acacia woodland, thick lush forests and open grasslands.
Highlights:
• Excellent birding route with sightings of golden winged sunbirds, African cytrill, white eyed slaty flycatcher and mountain buzzard
• The only place in the area to see Schalow’s wheatear and mountain white-eye
• A chance to see the Maasai and their cattle en route
Maximum 6 guests. Cannot be pre-booked.
Available at an additional charge
Private Dinner in the Wine Store (Additional Cost)
Beautifully romantic and exclusive, a private dinner in the lodge’s wine store is perfect for an evening spent with a loved one or as a more intimate activity to spend with friends and family. Tuck into a delectable menu in the beautiful surrounds of the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s wine store. This dinner includes a small bottle of French champagne as well as a bottle of wine, of your choice, for your special evening.
Minimum 2 guests; maximum 6.
Additional costs apply
Maasai Delight with Pre Dinner Drinks (Additional Cost)
After an adventure-filled day of game viewing, enjoy an unforgettable pre-dinner drink in front of the lodge, accompanied by the beautiful traditional singing and chanting of 20 Maasai warriors. This cultural activity is perfect for groups or families.
2 weeks’ notice required.
Additional costs apply.
Celebratory Champagne Tasting (Additional Cost)
Perfect for celebrating a special occasion or even just to toast an incredible safari, this activity offers the opportunity to indulge in a decadent champagne tasting in andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s beautiful wine store. Sip on a delightful French champagne and compare it with a renowned South African Methode Cap Classique and sparkling wines. This activity also includes delicious finger snacks.
Additional costs apply.
Wine Store Paring Dinner (Additional Cost)
Exceptional for the epicurean, this Pairing Dinner activity will allow you to enjoy a private evening that includes a mouth-watering five course dinner menu in the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s beautiful wine store. Each course will be accompanied with one of the lodge’s exclusive wines from the cellar.
Additional costs apply.
Hadzabe Bushmen Experience (Additional Cost)
A fascinating cultural highlight now being offered to guests visiting andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is a full-day, off-the-beaten-track adventure with the Hadzabe people. These ancient hunter-gatherers inhabit the land near Lake Eyasi, and their traditional unchanged way of life and obvious harmony with the earth are spellbinding. Accompanied throughout by an andBeyond ranger, guests have the opportunity to engage with the bushmen and learn all about their time-honoured hunting techniques, survival skills, food preparation and cultural norms. A veritable step back in time, this is an undeniably authentic cultural journey into rural Tanzania that reveals the untold world of these charismatic people. This adventure must be pre-booked and is not suitable for children under 12 years of age.
Private Vehicle (Additional Cost)
With a dedicated game ranger and tracker, as well as a private game drive vehicle, guests have the luxury of tailor-making their own safari experience; choosing their own game drive times and spending as much time as they want at sightings.
Pre-dinner drinks with KopeLion (Additional Cost)
Unwind after a thrilling day of game viewing with a bottle of fine wine, or some French champagne, and share some time with the KOPELion conservationists. This intimate setting lends itself perfectly to an interactive presentation by the KOPELion researchers, followed by an exchange of questions and answers about the invaluable work they are doing to eliminate human-lion conflict along a ‘corridor of tolerance’ linking the Crater to the Serengeti. This is a perfect opportunity to get a full understanding of the work they are doing, and their commitment to a sustainable solution.
Hosted Dinner (Additional Cost)
Tonight, your dinner will be hosted by the lodge’s General Manager who will offer more insight about andBeyond’s philanthropic investments.
Interact with KopeLion conservation team (Additional Cost)
Enjoy half a day with the KopeLion team and discover how these dedicated conservationists are fostering lion-people coexistence within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA). Working closely with local communities, they are creating a sustainable ‘corridor of tolerance’ that will re-connect the divided Crater and Serengeti lion sub-populations, ensuring their long-term survival. This insightful experience will give you the opportunity to understand the challenges and complexities of wildlife and human coexistence.
A Crater-floor banquet with KopeLion (Additional Cost)
Dine in style on the magnificent Crater floor with the KopeLion conservation team, and learn all about this fascinating, essential initiative. In this interactive forum, a lion researcher will regale you with stories of these mighty predators, and explain the committed efforts of the KopeLion team to eliminate human-lion conflict along a ‘corridor of tolerance’ linking the Crater to the Serengeti. All your questions are welcomed.
Lake Eyasi Walk (Additional Cost)
A panoramic half day walk through Maasai villages and open grazing land that allows guests to enjoy the culture and lifestyle of the Maasai. Along with authentic culture, this walk also offers spectacular views of Lake Eyasi.
Highlights:
• The inspiring Africa Foundation Mokilail School project can be visited en route
• The walk can be tailored to finish at a viewing point overlooking Lake Eyasi – perfect for sundowners
• A unique opportunity to interact with the Maasai
Maximum 6 guests. Half day panoramic walking route.
Additional costs apply.
Rose Petal Dinner (Additional Cost)
The dining area is magically transformed into an elegant banquet fit for a king and queen. The long, chandelier-lit dining table, adorned with white linen, candles and bouquets of roses, is surrounded by a carpet of brightly coloured rose petals. This is the height of elegance and romance. At each guest’s place setting, a single rose sits on top of a beautifully presented menu card. A sumptuous meal, prepared by expert chefs, is then served by attentive butlers and includes a glass of French champagne.
Minimum 24 guests. Two weeks notice period.
Additional costs apply
Taste of Tanzania (Additional Cost)
Be moved by a sensational performance of traditional music, singing and dancing at andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. Tuck into a selection of mouth-watering snacks and savour refreshing pre-dinner drinks while a group of 20 Maasai warriors, in full traditional dress, perform a series of stirring songs; with the spectacular view the Crater as your backdrop. Afterwards, enjoy a toe-tapping, rhythmical performance as African drummers take over and thrill with their expressive beats, dance moves and acrobatic feats.
Private Sundowners on the Rim (Additional Cost)
Make a toast to the setting sun with a refreshing sundowner cocktail at Gorgor (walking distance from the lodge), on the rim of the Crater. You will also be accompanied by 20 Maasai warriors who will serenade you with their traditional chants and songs. Expect unforgettable views and exceptional photographic opportunities.
Minimum 6 guests; maximum 20. One month’s notice required. Weather dependant.
Additional costs apply.
Wild child programme
andBeyond’s WILDchild programme, designed especially for children visiting our safari lodges and camps in Africa, is filled with fun, interactive activities that offer opportunities to learn and discover new experiences and cultures. Deeply rooted in the love for the African bush, it not only creates a series of unforgettable moments for the whole family but forges strong bonds between our young guests, our planet and its people.
Massage
Massage: Quiet Mind Journey (Additional Cost)
You are required to create a personal affirmation to reclaim an unconditional acceptance and love for yourself and reconnect with your soul to release all negative energy from deep within. A unique blend of
aromatherapy and plant oils chosen specifically by you, combining deep tissue massage techniques to bring relaxation to tired, aching muscles allowing the body and soul to return to perfect equilibrium. Choose from a blend of aromatherapy oils to either destress, hydrate, relax or detox.
Full body: 90 min
Back and Neck only: 30 mi
Massage: Healing Earth African Shea Butter Ritual (Additional Cost)
African Shea Butter has been long hailed for its powerful healing and nourishing effects. Relaxing nourishing and energizing this full body massage targets specific areas or tension and muscular discomfort employing deep tissue techniques where pain is dramatically alleviated.
Full Body and Scalp 75min
Back, Neck and Scalp 45min
Hosted Dinner (Additional Cost)
Tonight, your dinner will be hosted by the lodge’s General Manager who will offer more insight about andBeyond’s philanthropic investments.
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