Ndutu Safari Lodge

Nestled on a prominent hill overlooking Lake Ndutu in the southwestern part of the Serengeti, Ndutu Safari Lodge offers an authentic safari experience that blends history with comfort. Established in the 1960s by George Dove, a former hunter who transitioned to wildlife photography, Ndutu has been a beacon for those seeking the heart of the Serengeti’s wildlife spectacle. Renovated in 1985, the lodge maintains a rustic charm with its stone and thatch cottages, providing a medium-specification, permanent base for exploring one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

The lodge is not just a place to stay; it’s a historical narrative where each stone tells a story of the past, from its hunting lodge origins to its current role in conservation and eco-tourism. The design and ambiance reflect this heritage, with furnishings echoing an era when safaris were synonymous with adventure and discovery. The bar and restaurant area, adorned with animal horns, invoke the spirit of old Africa, while the outside bird bath and fire pit add to the lodge’s charm, offering guests a chance to connect with the natural environment.

Ndutu Safari Lodge is strategically positioned to offer guests an intimate view of the wildebeest migration, notably from December to April when the plains turn lush and green. However, the area’s rich biodiversity means there’s always something to see, from lions and cheetahs to a plethora of bird species, making Ndutu a year-round destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Location:

Located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, on the northern border but essentially providing a Serengeti experience, Ndutu Safari Lodge is a stone’s throw from the Serengeti’s southern plains. The lodge’s proximity to Lake Ndutu, Lake Masek, and the surrounding woodlands makes it a hotspot for wildlife activities. The area’s varied ecosystems offer diverse safari experiences, from marshlands to acacia-filled plains, and it’s particularly noted for its predator-prey dynamics, making it one of the best spots in the Serengeti for observing cheetahs in action.

Accommodation:

Ndutu Safari Lodge features 34 stone-and-thatch cottages, each designed for comfort and simplicity:

• Cottage Layout: Cottages are laid out in a long line from the main lodge area, ensuring privacy while offering views of Lake Ndutu. Each has a small veranda for enjoying the sights and sounds of the wilderness.
• Room Types: There are 26 twin or double-bedded cottages, five triples, one family room for four, and two ‘honeymoon cottages’ at the ends of the line, offering more space and a king-size Zanzibari dhow bed.
• Interior: The cottages are naturally cool due to their construction, with polished concrete floors and simple, yet comfortable, furnishings. Decor includes local art, Maasai throws, and wrought-iron lights shaped like guinea fowl, adding character.
• Bathroom: Each cottage has an en-suite bathroom with a basic setup including a shower, toilet, and basin, with soap as the primary amenity.
• Utilities: Electric lights operate on a schedule, with torches and candles provided for off-hours. Most cottages have one plug socket for charging, with more available in communal areas.
• Special Accommodations: The 2017 addition of a family cottage with two bedrooms and a shared lounge caters to families or groups, enhancing the communal living experience.

Amenities:

• Dining Experience: Meals are hearty and fresh, with a new chef ensuring quality. Breakfast offers a buffet with options for early departures, lunch is a three-course set menu, and dinner is a substantial four-course affair, all served in the lodge’s convivial dining area.
• Eco-Conscious Practices: Ndutu strives for sustainability, with initiatives like solar water heaters, minimal power use, and support for local agriculture.
• Activities: Game drives are the highlight, offering close encounters with wildlife, especially during the migration. Additional excursions can be organized to Oldupai Gorge or the Ngorongoro Crater.
• Social Areas: The bar and restaurant provide a social hub with stunning views, where guests can share experiences or relax with a drink. The lodge also features a small shop for curios, supporting local artisans.
• Wildlife Engagement: The lodge is renowned among photographers and biologists for its excellent predator viewing opportunities, making it a favored destination for those passionate about animal behavior.