Hatari Lodge
Where safari history meets modern comfort. Situated on the northern boundary of Tanzania's Arusha National Park, on the edge of a pristine woodland overlooking a glade called 'Momella meadow' with views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru. This is where Hatari Lodge sits, quietly on the slopes of Mount Meru, where mist rolls through the forest and the surrounding landscape sets the pace. Hatari Lodge is blazing the way into African culinary conservation through its sister company, Wondergarden Ltd.
Tanzania, a land of natural beauty and abundant wildlife, sets the stage for an extraordinary safari. Hatari Lodge (once the setting for the 1962 Hollywood film, Hatari!) offers a captivating escape within this remarkable country. This isn't just a stay; it's an immersion into a bespoke "modern-retro" ambiance, where sophisticated design meets the untamed. Unlike traditional game drive-centric safaris, Hatari provides a refreshing array of active explorations within Arusha National Park, from guided walking safaris and birdwatching to serene canoeing on the Momella Lakes.
Beyond the beaten path, Arusha National Park invites you to connect with nature in a kaleidoscope of landscapes. From the lush depths of the Ngurdoto Crater to the shimmering, ever-changing hues of the Momella Lakes, every corner offers a new perspective.
Each of the personally designed rooms and spacious villas offers an intimate sanctuary, ensuring a private connection with your surroundings, enveloped in the lodge's distinctive 1960s' theme and art-deco elements.
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Quick Facts
Number of Suites
- 9 uniquely designed Deluxe Rooms - each room embodies Hatari's retro theme with individual colour schemes and vibrant 60s' patterns, featuring spacious en-suite bathrooms and often an open fireplace for cozy evenings. Wake up on the foothills of Mt. Meru, with views of Mt. Kilimanjaro
- 3 Junior Suites - spacious with en-suite bathrooms
- 3 Suites (Elephant, Buffalo, Giraffe) - ideal for families, multi-generational travel or those seeking more space, these beautifully decorated villas boast Kitengela glass and dramatic furnishings, Kili View and Mount Meru View Terraces, fireplaces, family dining tables, and two bedrooms and bathrooms each.
Access
- International & scheduled flights to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) and Arusha Airport
- The closest international airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). From there, a scenic road transfer will bring you directly to the lodge, typically around an hour's drive
- Arusha Airport is also about an hour's drive to Hatari Lodge
- West Kilimanjaro Airstrip is approx. 1 hour away for connections to the Northern Safari Circuit, or take a stunning drive around Mt. Meru through plantations of coffee, making your way to the Northern Circuit Safari Highway
- 24 hours access through Arusha National Park is possible, as Hatari has permission for night transfer through the park, making it perfect for late night arrivals
USPs
- Leading in Culinary Conservation: Through their initiative Wondergarden Ltd, Hatari Lodge is transforming the food system from the ground up. Traditional farming methods are being revived and culinary heritage restored. They have creatively rediscovered and processed around 100 food products through seasonal variations into about 200 exceptional dishes featured on Hatari Lodge and Shu'mata Camp's menus; 90% of ingredients are sourced locally.
- Between Two Mountains: These peaks are majestic markers of a unique landscape rich in wildlife and natural wonders. Mass tourism has overwhelmed Tanzania, but this mountainous area remains untouched.
- Active Safari Immersion: A Malaria free area. Enjoy diverse activities beyond typical game drives, including guided walking safaris, birdwatching, and canoeing on the Momella Lakes in Arusha National Park
- Personalised & Private Retreat: Experience owner-run, intimate hospitality, ensuring a tranquil and uncrowded stay away from commercialised areas
Suggested Itinerary
Days 1-3: Arusha National Park Immersion
Begin your safari adventure with three nights at Hatari Lodge. Dedicate your days to exploring the diverse landscapes of Arusha National Park through game drives, guided walking safaris, birdwatching expeditions, and tranquil canoe trips on the Momella Lakes, all set against the backdrop of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. Immerse yourself in the lodge's unique heritage and enjoy its serene atmosphere.
Days 4-6: Under the Maasai Skies
Continue your journey with a transition to Shu'mata Camp, approximately 1.5 hours away, for three nights. Here, experience an elevated perspective of Maasailand with panoramic views of Kilimanjaro. Visit the Shira Plateau, a chance to climb the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro - 'Kili For All'.
Learn about the majestic elephants of the Enduimet Wildlife Management Area, understanding the crucial conservation efforts supported by the camp. Witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets from your luxury tent, truly connecting with the raw beauty of the African wilderness. Try your hand at a Sundown Spear Throw and enjoy a Maasai Naturalist Walk.
Days 7-8: Northern Circuit Safari
Following your deep dive into conservation at Shu'mata, dedicate two nights to experiencing the iconic wildlife of Tanzania's Northern Circuit. Depending on the season and your interests, this could include the vast plains of the Serengeti, the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, or the elephant-rich Tarangire National Park, ensuring classic safari game drive experiences with abundant wildlife viewing.
Days 9-10: Stone Town & Beach Bliss
Conclude your Tanzanian adventure with a flight to Zanzibar. Spend a day exploring the labyrinthine alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, soaking in its rich history and vibrant culture. Then, unwind on Zanzibar's pristine white-sand beaches, enjoying the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, reflecting on the incredible diversity of your Tanzanian adventure.
Lifetree Lowdown
Lifetree Lowdown
- Off-the-beaten-track destination - set in the vast and beautiful Arusha National Park, Hatari is perched on the edge of a pristine woodland overlooking a glade called 'Momella Meadow' with views of Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru
- Two of the world's most famous sisters, Mt kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru, are separated by only 348km and can be enjoyed slope-to-slope within a 1.5 hour drive
- Malaria free area, so safe for family travel
- Villas offer the perfect accommodation option for multi-generational family travel
- Wild and romantic all in one
- A peaceful oasis between two mountains overlooking a glade teaming with wildlife
- Giraffes join for breakfast, whilst the buffalos join for sundowners in the evening
- Activity highlights include, Meru Crater on foot, Arusha National Park (game drives and guided bush walks), Memella Lakes, Tululusia Waterfall and historical walk, heritage food (learning indigenous foods and environmental sustainability)
- Wondergarden Food Project
- Only about 1 hour from JRO Airport to Hatari lodge, making it perfect for late night arrivals
- You therefore get to wake up to Africa on your first morning - a tranquil and beautiful place to rest after your long-haul flight
- Hatari has become a legendary homemade bush lodge - it was once the setting for the 1962 Hollywood film, 'Hatari!"
- Expert Regional Knowledge - benefit from specialised insights and personalised service from owners Joerg and Marlies Gabriel and their dedicated staff, deeply rooted in the region
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