Rating: Modest
Located in a secluded spot outside Lake Manyara National Park against the Great Rift Valley Escarpment, E Unoto Retreat is centrally located for all the famous and well- known northern national parks. The lodge resembles a Tanzanian Maasai village, and a stay at E Unoto Retreat provides the opportunity to learn more of the Maasai and their lifestyle, purchase their famous beaded jewellery, ask questions and take photographs.
There are 25 spacious bungalows all decorated on a Maasai theme. Each bungalow is a private suite with its own balcony offering panoramic views of Lake Miwaleni and the towering escarpment. The suites also have separate shower and toilet facilities.
The open-air restaurant and bar overlook the lake and swimming pool. Local and international cuisine and a children''s menu are offered in the restaurant and butlers provide drinks and snacks to guests as they rest by the pool. In the evenings the E Unoto Performers perform a Maasai entertainment.
The lodge is about a one½ hour drive from both Arusha and the Ngorongoro Crater.
Activities:
Mountain bicycling to the Maasai Bomas - bicycles are available for adults and children staying here.
Bird watching - with more than 350 species of native birds the area.
Maasai Market - the market is situated along the main road from Makuyuni to Ngorongoro Crater. The market features a variety of goods including homeopathic remedies, local clothing and cereals and locally-brewed Mbege.
Mto Wa Mbu - over 120 different tribes are living in the nearest township.
Nature walks - Maasai guides escort guests on a selection of walks.
Swimming - in the open air pool.
Fair Trade / Responsible Travel
Over 80% of the employees are Maasai, and the lodge donates 10% of its profits to the local Maasai community. These funds have contributed towards the construction of a local school and provision of fresh water. Future projects include a medical dispensary and other community development projects.