Tanzania's Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
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.
