55 Best Hotels in Tanzania

Many safari aficionados consider this ultra-luxurious lodge with its superb views over the floodplains, fine dining, and impeccable service to be one of the best accommodations in East Africa. The hand-built cobblestone-and-thatch chalets have private en suite bathrooms with unique views, an elegant dressing room decorated with African artifacts, and an indoor sunken verandah with a day couch and a balcony that overlooks the wide floodplains and a plunge pool. Although not on the river, a pool in front of the camp lets you gaze out over the wilderness to spot buffalo, hippo, and other game. At the hot sulfur springs of Maji Moto, you can swim in deep natural pools. If you stay more than four nights, seize the opportunity to stay in the wonderful tree house perched in the branches of an ancient leadwood tree, with a star bed and bathroom.

Imagine walking into a Hollywood film set where the spectacular setting is literally "Great Zimbabwe ruins meets RMS Titanic baroque." Clusters of stilted rooms with woven conical banana-leaf domes and fancifully carved stone chimneys cling to the Crater's rim and somehow blend in with the natural surroundings. Your palatial abode has polished wooden floors, leather armchairs, and a dramatic mix of furniture and styles, including crystal chandeliers and hand-wrought local lamps. Ceiling-high swaths of silk taffeta drapes frame a small veranda with some of the world's most awesome views. Hand-carved doors lead to a massive bathroom with fresh-cut roses, a freestanding tub, and a tessellated tile shower straight out of a Roman villa. The main dining room has a 1920s ocean liner stateroom feel, but the adjacent lounge comes straight from an old English country house. It's a daring, glamorous mix of competing styles and themes that somehow works.

This mobile camp, in the southern part of the Serengeti, follows the migration (usually in March) from an acacia-covered bluff that overlooks a small river. The camp stays put for a couple of months at a time and then moves northward with the herds. Comfortable walk-in tents (Tanzania's largest mobile tents) with chandeliers that tinkle in the breeze have en suite bucket showers; copper washbasins; a flush toilet; deep, comfortable beds with crisp linen and fluffy mohair blankets; Indian rugs; a dawn chorus of joyous birdsong; and an evening serenade of whooping hyenas with backup vocals by softly calling lions. It's certainly not cheap but it's a delightful way to experience the migrations and the wonders of the Serengeti.

Climbing up the winding steps rotating around the trunk of a baobab tree, the tree houses of Chole Mjini will satisfy anyone with an island castaway fantasy. The lodge is as unique as the people who visit it, with open-air tree houses set among the overgrown ruins of an ancient trading station and open-air showers built around local vegetation with a unique kerosene-heating method to get the shower going. Coffee arrives every morning on a pulley system in your own baobab tree house. Dinner service is rotated between the lodge and inside the ruins, which are decorated by the roots of strangler fig trees. Head to the Red Herring Bar to watch the sunset (and get Wi-Fi). For rooms with the best views, choose Sita, Tano, and Nne.

The island's ecotourism concept was the brainstorm of a German conservationist who, since the early 1990s, has succeeded in developing it as one of the world's foremost marine sanctuaries. Seven thatch bungalows with specially built roofs catch rainwater which is then funneled into bathrooms through a tank in the floor. Electricity is solar-powered, and toilets are doused in sweet-smelling compost and later cleaned. This isn't a service-oriented luxury resort (although staff look after the guests very well) but a fascinating, genuine eco-project on a pristine island where you can learn about sustainability at Chumbe, with your accommodations costs subsidising the project. Scuba diving, snorkeling, island hikes guided by expert rangers, and outrigger boat rides give you plenty to do.

Nestled high on the northwest rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, the Entamanu Lodge is found under a shady canopy of Acacia trees; it's the only lodge found on this more remote corner of the crater rim. With locally sourced materials, soft neutral colors, and artwork and interior decor made by Tanzanian artisans, this lodge has a warm and inviting home-under-safari canvas atmosphere. Giraffes frequent this area of the highlands more than anywhere else and they can often be found wandering through the camp. Don't miss the opportunity to do a bush walk with one of the lodge's guides, especially if the walk is along the crater rim. 

Fundu is the type of place that begs you to just kick off your shoes and indulge in some restful jungle lounging—but from the balcony of your private luxury tent. The well-appointed makuti-thatched tented rooms of various sizes are set into the hillside, amid the jungle or peeping out onto the lagoon. The spectacular infinity pool is well worth the amount of steps you have to climb to get to it. Here you'll while away the days sipping cocktails, taking in sunsets from the jetty, or, for a premium, basking in the privacy of your own Swiss Family Robinson–style seafront villa, which feel more like private homes than part of a resort.

It's difficult to imagine almost anywhere on earth that's as wildly beautiful and remote as this exotic camp on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika. Six wood and thatch bandas nestle on the forest rim, framed by thickly wooded mountains that rise almost 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). The luxury bandas have furniture of bleached dhow wood, a rustic toilet and shower, and a lower and upper wooden deck with views over the lake. The main building is loosely based in the style of a Tongwe chief's hut, although many of your meals will be taken on the beach, at night by glowing lanterns. About 60 of Mahale's 1,000 or so wild chimpanzees live in the forest near Greystoke, so you have an excellent chance of spotting them.

North of the Ngorongoro Crater, situated along the forested slopes of the Olmoti volcano, sits The Highlands, a low-impact high-luxury camp that overlooks the valley below. Built on stilts and connected by wooden walkways, a central lounge and dining dome, as well as eight domed suites rise up out of the trees. The suites have chic, modern furnishings; a wood burning stove to keep you warm on chilly evenings; and king-size beds that look out over the lush scenery. The wood-paneled bathrooms, resembling a modern sauna room, create a spa-like atmosphere that guests will be hard pressed to leave. The road may be tough to get here, but the care taken with the property and the service will be worth every bump.

In the morning when the Maasai head out of their bomas along the Losimingorti mountain range, you'll hear the gentle clanking of their cattle's bells from your accommodations at this very authentic camp. After a day's safari, your nights are spent around a fire with the sounds of the Esilalei community around you. Then you retire to your breezy, well-appointed tent in supreme comfort. A good base to explore Lake Manyara, Tarangire, and the Ngorongoro Crater, Isoitok has a special partnership with the local community and when you're here you feel like you're a part of the community making this more than just your conventional safari camp stay. 

Hike up one of the hills at the back of the camp, especially at sunset to watch the Maasai herd their cattle home over the steppe.

Contemporary in style among the rocky outcrops, Jabali blends seamlessly into the impressive natural beauty at the heart of Ruaha. The spacious rooms are both modern and subtly tasteful, utilizing recycled railway ties and hand-dyed linens to accentuate a backdrop of natural tones and luxury finishes. Louvered shutters open the rooms to sweeping views of the bush beyond, a design carried throughout the lodge into the comfortable dining and lounge areas that maximize the outlook of the surroundings. The location by the Mgusi River ensures that you are in the thick of prime game-viewing territory, all of which you can experience on a day, night, and walking safari. Add into the mix the exceptional and attentive service that Asilia is known for and you have a real gem of a lodge that will do nothing if not impress.

The only camp in the southwest corner of Ruaha National Park, Jongomero exudes a laid-back bush atmosphere with stellar service amid luxurious trimmings. If you've come to see animals, but no other trucks or people, then this is your place. The tents, furnished in natural accents and rich wooden pieces, are perched along the banks of the (sometimes dry) Jongomero River. Take your morning or afternoon tea out on your verandah—you might catch a glimpse of a few passing animals. The food is excellent, and there is always something packed away for you when you're out on the drives. The pool is a great place to relax and ponder all that you have seen during your day, and the view of the setting sun is incredible.

The forest-floor-level entrance is flanked by an array of upturned wooden canoes that guests pass before climbing up to the main areas built under ancient branches heavy with flowers. A complex of rustic wooden thatch bedrooms, decorated with looped ropes of palm fronds, rest high up in the boughs of giant mahogany trees. Each has its own lounge area and en suite bathroom where you can relax in a bubble bath as birds flit past the big window. Take time to sit on your wooden deck suspended above the forest floor where the odd elephant may browse beneath you. There's fine dining inside a boma by soft gas lamps, a large newly wooden decked pool area, and plenty of privacy in this rather enchanting camp in the midst of the park.

Hidden in the ancient Ngezi Forest, home to the endemic Pemba flying fox, Manta Resort sits on a hillside that rolls down to tranquil turquoise waters with a breathtaking 180-degree sea-view open dining area. Rooms are a mix of rich wood and modern amenities with a Tanzanian flair; beachfront suites have their own magical plunge pool. The friendliness of the staff and your own dedicated waiter during your stay provide a welcoming and attentive atmosphere and there is a real community spirit about the place. A free spa treatment each day will leave you utterly relaxed, and if that doesn’t do it, the delicious cocktails seal the deal. Their famous underwater room is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Overlooking Mnemba Atoll on the more secluded stretch of Matemwe beach in Northern Zanzibar, the four self-contained double-story villas of Matemwe retreat are nestled amid the island palms. Entering into the white-washed stone walls of your private villa, through small Zanzibari doors, you are led by your private butler into an expansive outdoor deck overlooking the Indian Ocean through the thickets of foliage. Inside is a palatial bathroom with sunken bath facing out to sea and an air-conditioned main room with a comfortable king-size bed. The showstopper is up a little torrent of stairs—your own private plunge pool with sun loungers and a shaded baraza with plush cushion seating. This is all about an escape with exemplary service, complete privacy, and total relaxation as you watch dhows sail past in the changing tides.

In Swahili, pole pole means to go slowly, and at this intimate little resort this is very much encouraged. One of the smallest resorts on the island means you will have a lot more privacy and access to facilities. Spend days reading in the shade on daybeds on each balcony or kayaking in the intertidal mangroves around the small tide-dependent beach. Built around eco-principles the property is unpretentious and laid-back and has some of the best food on the island. Pole Pole may be rustic in construction, but is terrific for privacy and service.

Part of the high-end tented camps in the national park, Roho ya Selous is a modern space with minimalist luxury. Positioned on a hill alongside a hippo-filled waterway that links Lake Manze to Lake Nzerakera, the camp's suites blend into the surroundings with the use of all natural fabrics, cobblestone flooring, and a half circle of reed walling that encases the bedroom tents. The real star is the 180-degree views from the canvas tents which open up to a small verandah with table and chairs; it's the perfect spot to take in the panoramic views and passing wildlife. The romantic indoor and outdoor rainshower adds to the whole out-of-Africa feel to the space. A simple and comfortable main tent has views over the surrounding bush through open-sided canvas that's stretched and supported by wooden poles. With great guides and the hallmark top-notch service of Asilia, fans of a more luxury tented safari will be thrilled.

In the middle of the riverine bush on the banks of Lake Nzerakera, this luxuriously appointed camp has become a real gem in the park. With a stellar location, renowned guides, and beautiful tents evenly divided over two camps, this is authentic African safari at it's most delightful. Built on wooden platforms, the open-sided spacious tents blend in graciously with the surrounding wilderness. King-size beds are tastefully decorated in creams, browns, and whites, and en suite bathrooms with his-and-her brass hand basins and open-air hot-water showers overlook the bush. Activities are plentiful, highlights being the river cruise, bush walks, and relaxing by the swimming pool. At night the camp takes on a fairy-tale atmosphere when it's lit by dozens of softly glowing gas lanterns.

Zuri translates to "beautiful" in Swahili and they have taken that term to heart at this lodge. Each of the dining, lounge and living areas seamlessly flow through the expansive private gardens of the hillside down to the palm-fringed beach. Rooms feature Afrocentric murals, contemporary furniture, and handcrafted beaded glass curtains that hide the outdoor rain shower. An outdoor deck opens up to the forest with a lazy hammock to while away the hours. There's even a bespoke soundtrack played throughout the restaurant and bar areas. Multiple dining options with tasty Afro-Indian cuisine rounds out a truly great escape. 

Far from the traditional safari experience, at Four Seasons you'll find five-star amenities uncommon in the bush, such as white-glove service, multiple gourmet dining options, a fitness center, flat-screen TVs, rain showers, Internet, and air-conditioning. However, a sense of place is retained. The decor stays true to a modern safari style with accents of local artwork and textiles, and the cuisine highlights African ingredients and cooking techniques. Of course, there are also the sweeping views of Serengeti National Park and the on-site infinity pool overlooking a nearby waterhole, a gathering spot for local wildlife. In addition to standard game drives, the resort offers experiences like hot-air ballooning, photography classes, and bush picnics. There's also an indigenous-themed spa, a conservation- and research-focused Discovery Center highlighting local culture and history, and—surely a first for the bush—a business center.

Drawing inspiration from rich heritage of Omani sultans, this opulent award-winning hotel has various lounging areas and decor complete with carved wooden furnishings, copper urns, and billowing drapes, as well as beautifully appointed individual villas. Some have sea views and other garden views; all have private plunge pools, large bathrooms with tubs, and plenty of areas to relax in. All in all, it's an expensive but sublime place to refresh yourself after a safari, and has one of the best spas on the island. In the evening, enjoy a cocktail by the pool with other guests before an elaborate dinner in one of the two restaurants. The spa is exquisite with a full range of treatments, and there's a quiet pool at the spa where guests can retreat to if the main pool gets too noisy.

Situated on the banks of a Grumeti River tributary, in the western corridor of the Serengeti Grumeti, is a hospitable, delightful lodge that seamlessly mixes rustic safari tents with easy sophistication. Seemingly floating in the distance, rooms are spacious and well appointed with a large bed, indoor shower with a view, and a private plunge pool. The service is flawless with a butler assigned to each room. There's an abundance of birdlife and game, especially when the migration passes through. As you settle in for the evening you'll hear the resident hippos munching outside the tents and grunting to one another.

Built on the crest of the Kuka Hills with 360-degree panoramic views over the Grumeti River valley, this lovely intimate camp prides itself on good service and quality game-viewing along the river. As it lies just outside the national park on a private conservancy leased from the local Ololosokwan community, you can go on unrestricted game drives and three-hour bush walks—night drives are particularly thrilling. A visit with your Maasai guide to his village will be another highlight. Stone and thatch cottages have en suite bathrooms and a private verandah with great views. The beautifully decorated eclectic vintage-style dining and lounge area boasts exceptional views that some would argue are the best around.

If you are in Mafia to dive but also are watching the wallet then Big Blue is a great option, with a selection of affordable tents and bungalows. Coupled with a dive package, this is your best option for saving money but still enjoying the diving. Tents are cozy and simple, under a thatch shading with single or twin beds, a fan, and power socket. The more structured reed wall bungalows come with wooden beds, mosquito nets, en suite bathroom, and an air-conditioner. There is a pleasant social area with a restaurant and bar area that faces a small garden. The beach has a few sunshades and locally made loungers.

As a budget-friendly option either at the start or end of your safari, the Bougainvillea, halfway between Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara, is a great option. Run by a former local chef and his partner, there are not many frills and some of the decor is a touch on the odd side, but Bougainvillea has created a wonderful comfortable space with deep community connections. Each quaint cottage comes with mosquito nets, twin or king beds, and charming stone fireplaces or verandas looking inward to the lodge and gardens. The leafy grounds are kept tidy, and the delightful staff makes the lodge a welcoming place.

Butiama Group runs three types of properties across Mafia Island including Bustani, an intimate 10-room lodge on a hillside with a large pool and gardens outside of the marine park; the Beach Lodge with 13 well-appointed, colorful bungalows that have wide outdoor verandas; and Marine Camp, which has a few basic bungalows and tents for the budget traveler. It may not have the overly romantic aesthetic of other resorts, but at low tide it has one of the best, most extensive beaches on the island, perfect for sunny strolls.

A rare camp run entirely by women, Dunia Camp makes the most of its prime position alongside the Moru Kopjes which overlooks the lower grasslands in prime lion territory. Set into the Acacia Woodland, the permanent tented structures have an observation and lounge deck, king-sized beds, and soft neutral furnishings. Bathrooms are more traditional with actual showers and a separate toilet---no bucket showers here. The main lodge area stretches out to make the most of the views of the plains while also providing numerous private lounging spaces so guests don't feel too cramped. 

With the feel of an English country house, this working organic coffee farm sits midway between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater. The 1929 farmhouse has managed to retain its old-fashioned genteel nature with a wide veranda, intimate lounges, inviting reading nooks, and a bar and dining room that look much as they must have done almost 100 years ago. Intimate, luxurious guest cottages with en suite bathrooms are scattered throughout the gardens and provide a perfect base to explore the crater and Lake Manyara National Park, as well as a perfect respite from exhilarating game drives. Expect excellent coffee and home-cooked food served with organic veggies and fruit from the farm's own gardens by friendly management dedicated to sustaining the land and supporting the nearby communities.

Set in a forest of baobabs and sausage trees along the Ifaguru sand river, Kigelia has a prime location in Ruaha. This camp has a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere. The tents, are spacious, cool, and inviting. Every tent is furnished with unique, locally crafted furniture and has en suite bathrooms with flush toilets and outdoor safari-style bucket showers under the stars. This is a perfect place to sit in the tranquility and shade of a sausage tree and relax, quietly watching the passing wildlife. A very friendly staff and good service are the mark of this welcoming camp. The game in this area during the dry months is exceptional.

Kilindi whisks you away to a private, luxury resort on the northernmost part of the island with a combination of barefoot luxury and excellent service. This sophisticated retreat is set on a green hillside; its white-domed pavilions with modern fittings, delicate white fabrics, and scattered Arabic colors invite you to lounge back and watch the dhows sail by the spectacular beachfront. Each room has a private plunge pool, replete with outdoor rainshower and wooden-style Arabic king-size beds. A spacious main area houses an open-air bar set against a backdrop of falling water and modern swirling sculptures. Outside among the trees is an expansive infinity pool dotted with traditional Zanzibar daybeds covered in flowing white cotton. Perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic getaway.