WELCOME TO BOUGAINVILLEA SAFARI LODGE, KARATU
“KARIBU” (Welcome) Bougainvillea Safari Lodge! Our aim is to provide our guests with something different – simple homey comforts at a reasonable price. We’ve created a small sanctuary on the edge of Karatu town where safari travellers can take a break from the dusty roads and enjoy fresh country cuisine, a cool garden environment and stellar Tanzanian hospitality.
This lodge is situated in the small city of Karatu in the northern region of Tanzania, very close to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is three hours and a half drive away from Kilimanjaro International Airport. It’s flanked by amazing tourist sites and ancient historical sites. The unique geological and environmental conditions of the region have produced an outstanding zeal for tourists to encore. A member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World, it has been styled to represent the epitome of African style, ethnic elegance and bush men opulence, setting it apart as one of the finest lodges in Karatu.
ACCOMMODATION
At Bougainvillea Safari Lodge, we have thirty-two cottages set throughout our lushly landscaped property. Ten rooms in five double cottages are located in our coffee garden. The rest of the rooms are located in the pool area.
Each cosy room has mosquito-netted king or twin beds, dressing area, a fireplace, large bathroom with shower and a veranda from which to enjoy the views of our lush tropical gardens. Triples are possible with prior notice and two of the cottages can be used as family suites, with connecting rooms.
MEALS
Our approach to food is simple and uncomplicated; we serve family favourites and recipes created by Reggie and his team. We source our fruit, vegetables, dairy products, eggs and meats locally to ensure that our ingredients are as fresh as possible. Our executive chef, Reggie Bayo is legendary in the area and has been doing what he does best for over twenty-seven years. If you have any dietary restrictions, requests or requirements, be sure to give us ample notice so that we can accommodate you.
Breakfast ~ Cereal, a selection of seasonal fruits, tea and coffee are on the buffet table. A waitperson will take your order for eggs, bacon and sausage. If you’d like to try some of our local porridge, just let us know.
Lunch ~ We serve our famous buffet lunch daily and once a week we feature African specialities. If you’ll be out on safari for lunchtime, you’ll depart with a specially prepared lunch box.
Dinner ~ Is served at the table. This is a five-course event starting with a starter followed by soup. You’ll then enjoy your main course, which could be pork medallions, roast chicken, beef fillet etc. accompanied by potatoes and at least two fresh vegetables. A fresh garden salad comes next followed by dessert with tea or coffee. Vegetarian entrées are prepared on request.
LODGE FACILITIES
Bougainvillea Safari Lodge has:
- Spacious common area building houses:
- Reception
- Lounge
- Fully Stocked Bar
- Gift Shop
- Dining Rooms
- Outdoor Dining Area
- Free Wi-Fi in Common Area
- Large Swimming Pool
- “Baby” Pool
- Massage Room
- Expansive Tropical Gardens
ACTIVITIES
Wildlife Viewing
We’re located near to some of the most amazing wildlife areas on the planet. The gate to the World Heritage Ngorongoro Conservation Area is about a 15-minute drive from the lodge. To the east and south lies Lake Manyara National Park, a jewel of a park lying on the floor of the Great Rift Valley. Both areas are equally accessible for day trips.
Bird Watching
With about 1200 species of birds, Tanzania is one of the best places to watch our feathered friends. Even if you’re not a keen “twitcher” you’ll find it hard to resist marvelling at the colourful and sometimes comical avian visitors and residents at the lodge.
Cultural Activities
There is ample opportunity to visit some of the fascinating tribes nearby. You can visit the Iraqw, Hadzabe or Datogo communities. The interesting agricultural village of Mto wa Mbo is nearby too.
Relax or Swim
Sometimes its best just to stay put! Our gorgeous gardens are a balm to the senses and the pool is just a few steps away if you fancy a dip.
Hiking and Walking
You can easily walk into town from the lodge to experience a bustling African community. There are plenty of shops and a local market to explore. If you fancy a stroll into the countryside that’s another possibility. One of the staff can escort you to a neighbouring coffee plantation or you can hike in the Ngorongoro Conservation area for a more strenuous outing.
