Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge is a gorgeous German colonial-era farmhouse turned country retreat set on the forested slopes of Mt Meru, just outside Arusha. Dating back to the early 20th-century, Ngare Sero is one of Tanzania's oldest hotels, and has an atmosphere quite unlike anywhere else in the Arusha region. Though it is only a relatively short drive from the city and airport, its secluded location, and lovely garden complete with croquet lawn, makes it feel a million miles away.
While the original farmhouse at Ngare Sero is stunning, most of the guest rooms are located in a separate annexe, which is rather less attractive. There's a slightly ramshackle quality to Ngare Sero. Nevertheless, the lovely setting makes it one of our preferred lodges in the Arusha region.
Accommodation
Accommodation at Ngare Sero consists of ten garden rooms, two main house suites and a private pool cottage with 2 bedrooms.
The main house suites are located in the original farmhouse and are wonderfully rustic in character, their creaky wooden floorboards covered in Persian rugs and hand-carved furnishings. The private balconies have a view of Kilimanjaro on a clear day.
The garden rooms are located in a separate building to the main lodge. These are fairly small units, but each has a verandah overlooking the gardens and is beautifully furnished with large hand-carved Swahili-style beds. En-suite bathrooms feature toilet, bathtub and separate dressing area.
There's an additional private cottage, the Pineapple Cottage, located by the pool in the gardens. It contains two bedrooms, an open bath, and private garden.
Dining
Meals can be taken privately in your room, or in the indoor dining area. The cooking is ‘farmhouse’ style –bread straight the oven, hearty stews, freshly caught fish, pastries and lots of fresh salad. Much of the produce comes from the Lodge gardens.
There is a well-stocked bar.
Facilities
- Lounge/dining area
- Bar
- Spa
- Swimming pool
Activities
- Lake and forest nature trail
- Birding
- Horse Riding
- Trout fishing
- Coffee farm tour
Child Policy
Children of any age are welcome at Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge. Under 12 years stay half price; under 5 years stay free.
