Elewana will open Ngorongoro Explorer Lodge in June 2027, adding an 84-room property on the eastern rim of Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater.
The lodge will be the company’s second Explorer property, following Serengeti Explorer. Its elevated position will give guests sweeping views of the caldera, with the crater gate approximately 15 minutes away.
Announced rates start at US$425 per person on full board and US$725 per person for a game package.
Crater Views From Every Room
Designed by 2802 Architects, the firm behind Serengeti Explorer, the lodge will use neutral and dark colours, with planting around the buildings intended to soften their presence in the landscape.
Interiors by Jallan Sahba will include lounges with open fires and terraces overlooking the crater. All guestrooms will have floor-to-ceiling windows facing the caldera.
The accommodation comprises 45 double rooms, 29 twin rooms, six family rooms and four accessible rooms. In-room facilities will include minibars, tea and coffee stations and universal charging units.
Safari Activities Beyond Game Drives
Crater-floor game drives will be central to the experience. The surrounding conservation area also provides access to Olduvai Gorge, an important site for the study of human origins.
At the lodge, planned activities include cultural talks, stargazing, a photographic studio, yoga, meditation and an indoor cinema.
Families will have access to wildlife-focused learning, cultural activities and age-appropriate safari experiences, reflecting Elewana’s focus on multigenerational travel.
Infinity Pool and Spa Overlooking the Crater
An infinity pool facing the crater will be one of the lodge’s main leisure facilities.
The spa will have four treatment rooms, including one double room, alongside a sauna, rasul chamber, cold plunge, vitality pool and gym.
Dining options will include a main restaurant, outdoor boma-style dining, a pool bar, a terrace bar and a café. Menus will draw on local ingredients and cooking traditions, alongside international dishes.
A wine cellar with preservation technology will allow guests to order fine wines by the glass, extending an offering already available at Serengeti Explorer.
The lodge will also have a multimedia room accommodating conferences and events for up to 40 people.
Redevelopment of an Existing Lodge Site
Ngorongoro Explorer is being built on the site of a previous property. Elewana says the redevelopment will not increase accommodation capacity in the local area and will reuse materials from the former lodge.
The company is pursuing EDGE certification, with the aim of securing it before opening.
Revenue from stays will also contribute to the Land & Life Foundation, Elewana’s non-profit organisation supporting community development and wildlife conservation.
