Ziwani Lodge

Ziwani Lodge stands as a cultural beacon on the edge of Lake Eyasi, nestled between the geological marvels of the Great Rift Valley and Tanzania’s largest soda lake. This lodge is a blend of Moroccan fortress-like structures and Zanzibari elegance, creating a unique retreat that celebrates the confluence of African and Arabic cultures. Entering through its carved doors, you’re transported into a realm where the desert’s expanse meets the vibrant colors of East African life.

Here, the journey is as much about the heart as it is about the scenery. The lodge welcomes you with a eucalyptus face cloth and a drink that speaks of the land’s bounty, setting the stage for a stay where the hustle of safari life gives way to contemplation. The architecture tells stories of migration, music, and community, with each room, archway, and artifact narrating a part of this rich cultural tapestry.

Ziwani invites you to slow down, to sit on its earth-toned verandas, and to watch the day’s light play across the Yaida Valley, turning the mind towards peace and reflection. It’s a place where luxury is redefined by the authenticity of experience and the connection to both the land and its people.

Location:

Located on the northeastern shore of Lake Eyasi, Ziwani Lodge is a gateway to the cultural and natural wonders of the region, just south of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This spot is not only a visual feast with its backdrop of the Great Rift Valley but also an opportunity to engage with the Hadzabe, experiencing one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer lifestyles in Africa. The lodge’s position offers an ideal setting for those who wish to combine adventure with cultural exploration, all while being enveloped by stunning landscapes.

Accommodation:

The lodge provides:

• Guest Rooms:
  • Aesthetic: The seven rooms, including one family cottage, continue the Moroccan/Zanzibari theme with whitewashed walls, dark wood furniture, and flowing mosquito nets over king-sized beds.
  • Functionality: Each room includes a private veranda for enjoying the outdoors and a rooftop terrace for panoramic views.
  • Bathrooms: En-suite with large showers, double basins, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay.
• Construction: The use of local materials and high-ceilinged spaces keeps the rooms naturally cool and integrates the architecture with the surrounding environment.
• Family Accommodation: The family cottage offers space for those traveling with children or in groups, ensuring everyone can enjoy the lodge’s peaceful ambiance.

Amenities:

Ziwani Lodge enriches your stay with:

• Culinary Experience: Dining here is personal and intimate, with meals prepared from local ingredients, enjoyed in settings that connect you with nature.
• Pool Area: The uniquely shaped pool serves as a haven for relaxation, with views that reflect the lodge’s commitment to harmony with the landscape.
• Cultural Engagement: From joining the Hadzabe on a hunt to learning about local traditions, the lodge facilitates deep cultural interactions.
• Evening Rituals: Sundowners on the rooftop offer a serene end to the day, where guests can share their experiences against the backdrop of a setting sun over Lake Eyasi.
• Quiet Spaces: The lodge’s design encourages relaxation, with shaded verandas and cool, comfortable indoor spaces for contemplation or socializing.