Situated about a kilometre from the lakeshore, Lake Manyara Tree Lodge has ten treehouses built on short stilts, some in the boughs of ancient mahogany trees, discreetly tucked away in the forest.
The tree houses have been crafted from local timber and makuti (palm fronds) and feature large open decks and spacious rooms with large windows to invite the surrounding forest into the luxurious elegance of each room.
The interiors of the tree houses have a real 'wow' factor, and are a combination of natural fibres, pure cotton linen and contemporary furnishings. The large beds can be either double or twin. Overhead fans and mosquito nets as well as en suite bathrooms with baths and large twin hand basins ensure that every comfort is attended to. There is an outdoor shower while the private verandas offer extensive views of the lovely forest environment.
The main area houses a stylish lounge with cosy chairs, a bar and lots of lovely coffee table books to peruse, and it is just upstairs from the open-plan kitchen dining room. The food really is very good indeed, and it is an unusual twist to watch it being prepared in the adjacent kitchen area.
In front of the main building is a large open area interesting fenced partly by old canoes. Here the is a central fireplace, and meals and sometimes entertainment take place here, though mainly it's just a great place to sit around the fire and chat with a drink in hand.
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is an expensive option, however it manages not to feel pretentious or over-done. It is quietly, discreetly, professionally run by friendly people, and the lodge feels like it belongs in this very beautiful spot. Quite a feat we'd say!
