Ngorongoro Crater Lodges — Where to Stay on the Rim

Most lodges sit on the crater rim (2,300m elevation), offering panoramic views and cooler temperatures. A few are on the crater descent road or in the highlands nearby, which means warmer nights and faster access to the crater floor — but no views.

If it is your first visit, stay on the rim. The view at sunrise is one of Africa's most iconic images.

• &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge — Called "the game lodge at the top of the world." Victorian opulence meets Maasai design. Each suite has a bathtub with crater views. The best lodge in Tanzania.
• The Highlands (Asilia) — Contemporary geodesic domes on the Olmoti Crater rim. Modern, eco-friendly, and utterly unique. Not on the main crater rim but nearby.

• Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge — Built into the crater rim with excellent views. Wheelchair accessible, heated rooms, and reliable service. Great for families and seniors.
• Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge — Similar to Serena but slightly more affordable. Good crater views, spacious rooms.
• Rhino Lodge — Simpler, smaller, and more affordable. Good for budget-conscious travelers who still want rim access.

• Lemala Ngorongoro — Tented camp in the forest near the crater rim. Intimate, well-guided, and more exclusive than the big lodges.
• Gibb's Farm — Not on the rim, but nearby in the highlands. A working farm with organic gardens, spa, and a peaceful alternative to crater rim crowds.

• Book early — Rim lodges fill 6-9 months in advance for peak season
• Bring warm clothes — The rim is cold at night (5-10°C)
• Rim lodges have altitude — 2,300m. Mild altitude effects possible
• One night is enough — Two nights gives you two crater descents, which is ideal
• Ask for a room with a view — Not all rooms have crater views

Read our Ngorongoro visitor guide or plan your crater safari with us.