Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is perched on the edge of the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater at the eastern edge of the Serengeti in northern Tanzania. It lies within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which covers more than 8 000 square kilometres (3 100 square miles) of pristine Inspired in design by the Maasai mud-and-stick manyatta (homestead), Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is without doubt one of the most architecturally spectacular safari lodges in Africa. The lodge lies within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which covers more than 8 000 square kilometers (3100 square miles) of pristine African wilderness.

North and South Camp have 12 suites each, while intimate Tree Camp has six suites. All have an en suite bathroom and chandelier-lit bath-tub and shower; each sumptuous suite is discreetly tended by a personal butler, who will bring you tea in bed, stoke your fireplace and draw your bath, scattering the water with rose petals, ready for your enjoyment. The sumptuous colonial-style interiors combine silver, gold and ruby colors under banana-leaf ceilings and grass roofs, crystal chandeliers hang above large gilt mirrors reflecting carved Zanzibar wall paneling decorated with gold leaf. Huge bowls filled with long-stemmed red roses complement the Persian carpets and velvet bedspreads; antiques, plump cushions, voluptuous raw silk curtains and tall, leather-backed chairs complete the picture. This opulent design blends with African art elements in unexpected harmony.

Each of the exclusive camps operates independently. They each have a central living area and viewing decks overlooking the awesome crater. The large fire bowls that flank the entrance to each of the living and dining areas lights African nights; there is a communal safari shop and gallery where African artifacts and clothing are on sale at the gallery/Maasai Market. The domed dining room, with its fireplace, crystal, silver and massive wooden platters, makes every meal a special occasion, delicious Pan-African cuisine may also be enjoyed on the outdoor dining deck.

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is a true feast of the senses. Housing four distinct habitats which are home to 25 000 animals, boasting excellent year-round game viewing, including the phenomenal Great Migration of tens of thousands of zebra and wildebeest across the Serengeti. Ngorongoro Crater Lodge has contributed significantly towards improving the prosperity and living conditions of the Maasai community; about 42000 Maasai pastoralists inhabit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, tending their herds of cattle, sheep and goats, and living in peaceful co-existence with the wildlife. Grazing of livestock on the Crater floor is permitted, offering a glimpse of bygone Africa.