Kisima Ngeda

Kisima Ngeda Tented Camp is an intimate tented lodge set on the shores of Lake Eyasi, with sweeping views towards the rift. Across this huge, seasonal, soda lake that stretches away in front of camp, the Alipi escarpment wall rises 2000 feet up into the Endulen area of the Ngorongoro Conservation providing a stunning view. Kisima Ngeda lies amidst a beautiful natural palm and acacia forest with a colossal rock as a backdrop, in a 200 acre plantation site, with a natural spring nearby which feeds into the lake.

There are just seven tents at Kisima Ngeda, each built under a thatched structure, ingeniously made almost entirely of palm (thatch and poles) and built with scrupulous attention to the use of ecologically sound materials. The stems of the leaves provide a unique and very attractive building material and the leaves themselves are ideal for thatching. Only dead or fallen palm trees have been used to support the structures. Each tent is very comfortably furnished, and has an ensuite bathroom with hot and cold running water. The excellent service at Kisima Ngeda Camp, combined with a simple elegance, makes this camp very appealing. Views from the tents of the lake and its birdlife, including flamingos and Egyptian geese, are superb. The camp''s owners have been farming in the area for many years, and much of the food served is produced on the farm, including fish and meat. Kisima Ngeda has a natural groundwater spring which is used for the fish farm. It also supplies a beautiful swimming oasis and there are two huts equipped with beach-beds and lounging chairs, ideal for sunbathing. There is an open dining room and bar, and a platform hidden in the reeds by the spring; ideal for a romantic dinner under the stars or for birdwatching.

Though this area is isolated and little visited it is situated conveniently close to the route between some of Northern Tanzania's most popular National Parks. It offers an exclusive destination plus amazing scenery and a chance to visit the Hadzabe, one of the last click-speaking hunter gatherer tribes. Some of the Hadzabes still live as nomads though more and more are settling down. The Hadzabe tribe still living in the forest hunt small animals that are found around the area ranging from dik dik to baboons. Guests can also visit the Wadatoga blacksmith or the Datoga cultural boma before returning to the camp in time for sunset and sundowners overlooking the lake. You might even spot the two hippos that still live in the vicinity. You can also make use of the mountain bikes provided by the camp or go walking and bird watching on the premises. There are several trails across the palm and acacia forest and a whole lakeshore to explore at will and without the need of a guide. Those who wish to can venture into the villages nearby, the area is very safe.