6 Days African Plains Safari

The aptly named Arusha Coffee Lodge lies hidden amongst the sprawling grounds of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantation, set below the rugged peaks of Mt Meru. Guests can unwind in one of the lodge’s exclusive Plantation Suites, which each boast a romantic four-poster bed draped in Egyptian cotton linen, a split-level sitting area, ensuite bathroom, an open fireplace, a personal bar and a private veranda that looks out onto rows and rows of berry-laden coffee bushes.

Guests can enjoy scrumptious meals in the Coffee Lodge lounge or sip on their favourite drinks in the bar area. A boutique store, swimming pool and garden terrace add to guest delight. Other adventures include a tour of the Shanga social enterprise as well as visits to the Museum of Natural History, the Maasai market on Faya Road and the Tanzanite Experience. A game drive in Arusha National Park, accompanied by a delicious picnic lunch, makes for a wonderful outing.

Exploreans is one of the latest additions to the Ngorongoro Highland region and is becoming a firm favourite. With its proximity to the Crater gates, luxurious accommodation and reasonable rates, it is hard to find many negatives. As long as you are willing to forgo the more traditionally built and decorated lodges, you can’t go far wrong in terms of location and comfort.

Exploreans is situated in the Karatu area of the Ngorongoro Highlands, just down the road from the gates of the Ngorongoro Crater. It has a spectacular 50 acre plot that gives its 20 cottages incredible views over the breathtaking local scenery. The lodge is very new in design and has a large main area that houses its bar and restaurant. The cottages have all neatly been built in rows from local sources. They’re extremely well presented and clean as a whistle inside.

A series of small luxuries such as the ‘pillow menu’ will make your stay very comfortable indeed. It is definitely not a ‘traditional’ safari lodge as it is not discreet with its Spa and swimming pools and could be accused of being slightly gaudy. However, for someone looking to come back to the luxuries in life after a long day in the crater it’s perfect.

Serengeti Bushtops Camp is situated in one of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, the renowned Serengeti National Park. Sumptuous tents include ensuite showers, private dining tables, luxurious hot tubs, large terraces and boast extraordinary panoramic views of the camp’s magnificent surrounds. Outstanding butler service and personal massages add to guest delight.

After exciting days spent exploring the wonders of the Serengeti National Park, guests can savour superb à la carte dinners, accompanied by an excellent selection of wines in the inviting restaurant. Those in need of relaxing spots to unwind can head to the quiet confines of the well-stocked library or laze around the comfortable sitting room. Adventures include exhilarating game drives and bush walks through this wildlife-rich reserve.