Overview

Tloma Lodge is a boutique eco-lodge situated in the Ngorongoro Highlands, approximately 2,000 meters elevation on the rim of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Known for: intimate, personalized service; authentic interaction with local Iraqw culture; exceptional birding (over 150 species recorded); and sustainable farming practices integrated into guest experiences. Best for: birdwatchers, nature photographers, cultural enthusiasts, couples seeking privacy, and travelers interested in conservation initiatives rather than high-volume safari operations.

Accommodation & Rooms

The lodge comprises 10 individually decorated cottages constructed from local stone and sustainable materials, each featuring a fireplace, private veranda, and views of the highland landscape. Rooms include en-suite bathrooms with hot water heated by solar panels, comfortable beds with quality linens, and thoughtful touches such as local artwork and handcrafted furnishings. The cottage design emphasizes natural ventilation and natural lighting, reducing energy consumption while maintaining comfort. Room configurations accommodate couples and small families, with some units featuring interconnecting doors for group bookings.

Dining & Cuisine

The lodge restaurant serves farm-to-table cuisine prepared with vegetables and herbs grown in Tloma's organic garden. Meals feature Tanzanian specialties alongside international options, with dietary requirements accommodated upon advance notice. The dining area overlooks the forest canopy, and the lodge offers packed lunches for full-day excursions and picnic dinners on the property grounds. Coffee and tea are available throughout the day, sourced from regional Tanzanian producers.

Wildlife & Activities

While not a traditional game drive destination, Tloma Lodge offers guided forest walks led by trained naturalists specializing in bird identification and plant ecology. The property sits within critical montane forest habitat, making it exceptional for birdwatching—species include the Silvery-cheeked hornbill, Narina trogon, and Scarlet-tufted sunbird. Activities include: guided nature walks (2-4 hours), birding expeditions (early morning and late afternoon), visits to local Iraqw villages and traditional markets, coffee plantation tours, and sunset walks on the property. The lodge can arrange day trips to Ngorongoro Crater (30 minutes drive) for traditional safari experiences with separate operators.

Location & How to Get There

Tloma Lodge is located at coordinates -3.4667, 35.3833 in the Karatu region, approximately 25 kilometers from the Ngorongoro Crater entrance and 120 kilometers southwest of Arusha. Access routes include: (1) Road transfer from Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam (6-7 hours), (2) Road transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport (4-5 hours), or (3) Charter flight to nearby airstrips with ground transfer (2-3 hours total). The lodge can arrange airport pickups; advance notice required for flight coordination.

Best Time to Visit

The Ngorongoro Highlands experience distinct seasons: June-October offers cool, dry weather (15-22°C daytime, 5-10°C at night) ideal for birding and forest walks; November-May brings green landscapes and migratory bird arrivals with afternoon rain showers. December-January and July-August represent peak seasons with moderate temperatures and clear skies. Birding is productive year-round, though April-May brings the highest species diversity during resident bird breeding season. The region's altitude (2,000+ meters) means temperatures are significantly cooler than lower-altitude Tanzania areas.

Conservation & Community

Tloma Lodge operates an organic farm providing 70% of its fresh produce, reducing supply chain emissions and supporting sustainable agriculture education. The lodge employs staff exclusively from surrounding Iraqw communities and supports the nearby Tloma Primary School through scholarship programs and educational material donations. The property utilizes 100% solar power for electricity, rainwater harvesting for irrigation, and composting systems for organic waste. Guest activities directly contribute to community benefit through cultural visit fees supporting local guides and artisans. The lodge holds no formal conservation certifications but operates independently under strict environmental management standards.

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