Take in the far-reaching views from this larger lodge with rooms scattered throughout pretty grounds.

Standing high on a bluff overlooking the gleaming waters of Lake Manyara, the Serena has some of the best views around and offers easy access to the national park. Antelope and baboons roam the grounds and, thanks to a local community-run programme, a whole host of activities are possible here, including mountain biking, forest walks, canoeing and even night game drives.

The infinity pool is a focal point, with a pool bar encouraging you to soak up the views for longer. Inside the lodge buildings you’ll find vibrantly colourful frescos that depict the patterns of migratory birds, the swirling motifs of Maasai bomas and local landscapes. For dining, you’ll eat in the dining room, or out on the terrace if you prefer. Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style, with set menu options for dinner. Comfortable rooms are set in traditional, yet quite quirky, two-storey whitewashed rondavels dotted throughout the grounds. Walls are adorned with local artwork and the rooms have sliding doors that open out onto a small stone balcony.

 

 

In an elevated position in the Mto wa Mbu escarpment, just to the north of Lake Manyara National Park

Airport transfer time: Approx. 2½ hours’ drive or a 20-minute flight from Arusha

 

Rooms: 67

 

Accommodation information

 

• Go boating and birdwatching on the lake* • Join a guided forest walk* • Visit a local village* • Head to a grassy clearing by the cliff edge for a lantern-lit bush dinner*.

Dining room, bar, pool bar

 

Full Board • Breakfast, lunch and dinner in the dining room • Park fees.

 

 

 

*Denotes local charge