Plantation Lodge
Plantation Lodge may be that prescription your spirit needs. This is a ” stop whatever it is you are doing and smell the roses” type of place. The beauty of this Lodge is so highly regarded that many couples choose to get married under the postcard perfect terrace.
The estate is actually a working coffee plantation, situated on 45 acres of rolling green farmland and lush highland forest. As you enter the sunny reception area, you will be greeted by the gracious staff, dressed in their simple but freshly pressed aprons and smartly starched dress.
Although the atmosphere here is peaceful, relaxed and easy, the service is quite prompt, courteous and polite. Friendly smiles and attentive service are hallmarks of Plantation Lodge. The food at Plantation Lodge is also excellent. Tasty organic meals, freshly prepared with local ingredients, will surely be a highlight of your stay here.
Plantation Lodge makes a great last night on safari after you have visited the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. The tranquil and lush green grounds provide the perfect ending to your adventure.
Location
Plantation Lodge (elevation 5,607 feet) is located on a 45-acre estate in the rich fertile farmland of the Ngorongoro highlands, just outside the southern edge of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Lodge is conveniently located near the small town of Kiratu, about midway between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater . A 45-minute drive up the crater highlands to the north takes you to the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. If you head south from the lodge, you could be at the Lake Manyara park gate in about 30 minutes.
Accommodations
The lodge consists of 17 rooms with en-suite bathrooms spaced throughout the gardens. Every room is uniquely decorated with authentic safari antiques and Tanzania arts and crafts. The rooms and en suite bathrooms are spacious and extremely comfortable. For honeymooners or romantic couples, there is the Jacaranda House, otherwise known as the honeymoon suite, which is decorated a little bit more exotic and comes equipped with a larger bathroom and sunken Jacuzzi/Shower.
The main facilities are just as charming as the rooms. There are a few dining rooms to choose from if you are not located in a chalet with a private dinning area. The dining rooms are fantastic and are a great way to mingle and talk with other guests. They are all family style with one large table though private dinning is always an option.
The pool terrace is spectacular and offers great views of the surrounding farmlands.
Food and Drink
The majority of the menu at Plantation consists of locally grown vegetables from the surrounding farms as well as meats from locally raised livestock. The majority of the food provided is organically grown right on the nearby farm. Vegetarians are well catered to as well.
The meals in general, especially dinner, are superb. There is also an excellent selection of fine South African wines. Though wines and other alcoholic beverages are not typically included at Plantation Lodge, they are very reasonably priced. Dinner is served in four fantastic courses. Two starters or appetizers are offered plus a salad before the main course. You may select from several dishes for the main course including both meat and vegetarian plates. Lastly, desert is offered plus coffee or tea.
Special Features
Private game drives into the lovely Lake Manyara National Park or the famous Ngorongoro Crater
Nature Walks
Picnic lunches
Safari boutique and gift shop
Internet access at an additional fee
Full housekeeping services
24 hour electricity
Swimming Pool
Cultural visit opportunities nearby
Birding from the lodge
Laundry service at an additional fee
Beverages available including soft drinks, beer, wine, and spirits at an additional fee (or included with Luxury suite package)