Awaken to breakfasts among the trees, walk alongside ancient tribes and see the land through their eyes, raise a cocktail in the Jacuzzi to embrace the setting sun

Mwiba Lodge

A secluded haven set atop massive stone boulders, surrounded by ancient coral trees and acacias, overlooking a rocky gorge on the Arugusinyai River. Vast vistas stretch out before you: untamed landscapes vibrantly lush with plant life, freshwater springs and a diverse array of wildlife.

Accommodation

Limited to just 10 suites, each with a private deck, spectacular views, large soaking tub, outdoor rain shower, personal minibar and grand bed made for dreaming. The main lodge offers airy living spaces, a rejuvenating spa and gym and a curated wine cellar. An expansive pool is set on a rocky outcrop overlooking natural springs below where resident wildlife frequently comes to slake their thirst.

Blending unparalleled experiences with true privacy

A sublime safari experience at our most exclusive property. For those seeking the highest levels of comfort, unique-to-you experiential wildlife encounters, rare cultural immersions and a variety of exceptional activities found nowhere else. Recommended three to four nights’ stay for the full experience, but also perfect for the middle or end of an itinerary.

Location

Mwiba Lodge overlooks a rocky gorge on the Arugusinyai River, located in a private 129,530-acre wildlife reserve adjoining the southern Serengeti.

GPS coordinates 3°26’51.32”S 34°51’59.47”E

Access

The nearest international airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport. Guests can fly to Mwiba Airstrip via a scheduled or private charter flight from Arusha Airport. The camp and lodge is a short 15-minute drive from the airstrip.

From Arusha Airport or Lake Manyara Airstrip, fly with shared charters into Mwiba Airstrip followed by a 15-minute drive to Mwiba Lodge. Ndutu Airstrip is a 2.5-hour game drive away, and the Ngorongoro Crater is a 3.5- to 4-hour drive from Mwiba Lodge

Highlights:

Elevated location for excellent views of the Serengeti

Luxury hideaway offering privacy and exclusivity

Private safari vehicle and guide per booking

Authentic cultural experiences with the local tribes

Best for…

A romantic getaway or family vacation.

The south of the Serengeti was crying out for a top permanent lodge and now it has one. With an amazing location above a rocky gorge and eight classically styled tented rooms, Mwiba is the answer for those looking for a lavish top luxury permanent lodge with all the amenities one could wish for. With its own private concession, something very rare in East Africa, the exclusive use of this area allows greater flexibility with activities as well as a private and intimate safari away from the crowds sometimes seen in the National Park.

Legendary Mwiba Lodge – The Facts

Being in a private reserve on the boundaries of any park in Africa comes with benefits and drawbacks. On the obvious plus side you have an entire area to yourself and are free to do as you want. The rigid rules of the Serengeti do not apply, allowing the lodge to offer walking safaris and night drives. The downside is that you are outside the main game viewing areas but the migration brings game with it, including a throng of predators.

Even when the migration is not in the vicinity, there is plenty of resident game here, opitimised by the BBC’s documentary Waterhole Africa’s Animal Oasis. Not only does the programme showcase the variety of large mammal species to call this area home, but it goes to show that even the smallest of creatures are fascinating, and that is why a walking safari is a must!

During the months when the migration is in the Southern area of the park, some will enter the private concession, however it is the extras that make Mwiba so special. From cultural visits to fly-camping, almost anything is possible.

The camp has been designed and built with relaxation in mind. Unlike so many of its supposedly high-end competitors, Mwiba does not attack the senses with bright reds and greens. The tents are tastefully understated with a woody-beige colour scheme throughout. The standalone baths, all with a great view, are the highlight. Enormous glass panelled doors lead out onto private wooden decking, again enjoying huge views across the trees and beyond.

The main area is an enormous wooden deck sandwiched between the enormous boulders that form the centrepiece of the lodge. Although open-sided, the area is covered by a beautiful Makuti thatched roof. The infinity pool sits just in front of this area and enjoys a similar view across the rocky gorge below.

As one would expect from a lodge of this quality and price, the food is varied and excellent, a blend of African and European. Although we will not spoil the surprise, you can eat in several locations both in the lodge and throughout the area… great for a honeymoon!

Having been established for a number of years now, Mwiba is certainly competing with some of the best in Tanzania and Africa.

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