Roika Tarangire Tented Lodge sits 5 km from the entrance to Tarangire National Park, along the riverbank. Located 125 km southwest of Arusha via the Dodoma Road, it serves as a base camp for exploring one of northern Tanzania's most wildlife-dense parks. The lodge is managed and operated by Tanzanians, with a demonstrated commitment to the neighbouring Maasai village.

Why choose Roika Tarangire Tented Lodge

Three elements set this property apart among options near the park. First, its position at the park's edge, just minutes from the entrance gate, allowing early morning game drives without lengthy transfers. Second, its local roots: the lodge supports school construction and solar panel installation in the neighbouring Maasai village, and the majority of staff are Tanzanian. Third, its tented formula on wooden platforms, offering lodge comfort without compromising the bush camp experience.

Ambiance and atmosphere

Twenty-one tents are arranged on wooden platforms, topped with makuti roofs (woven palm fronds). This material, traditional along the East African coast, gives the camp a restrained silhouette that blends into the riverbank vegetation. Power comes from solar panels, minimising background noise and preserving the sounds of the park's nocturnal wildlife — a rare harmony between architecture, energy and setting.

Common areas revolve around the main restaurant, the Rhino Bar and the pool. In the evenings, barbecues accompanied by Maasai dances are regularly organised, and some meals are served in the bush depending on weather and group itineraries.

The tents

Each tent features an open veranda with two chairs and a table, as well as a bathroom with separate shower and bathtub. Two tents can be configured as connecting units, sharing a common veranda — ideal for families of up to 8 people. Charging points for cameras, phones and video equipment are available at the restaurant and bar.

Dining and services

The gourmet restaurant Olevolos serves fusion cuisine (traditional, continental and international dishes) offered as buffet or à la carte. Breakfast is continental with vegetarian options. The Rhino Bar rounds out the offering, and room service is available.

Guests also have access to:

• a pool and game room;
• a conference room;
• a shop selling local Maasai jewellery, artefacts and books about the park and Tanzania;
• internet access in common areas.

Activities beyond classic game drives include barbecues with Maasai dances, bush meals, night safaris, birdwatching and optional hot air balloon flights over the park.

Location and access

The lodge is located 5 km from the Tarangire National Park entrance, along the river. Two access routes are available:

• By road: 125 km southwest of Arusha via the Dodoma Road, ideally after a transfer from Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport. Allow approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on conditions;
• By air: flight to Kuro airstrip, located within Tarangire National Park, followed by a road transfer to the lodge.

What to see nearby

• Tarangire National Park entrance gate — minutes away;
• Lake Manyara — approximately 30 minutes' drive;
• Sangaiwe gate — approximately 1 hour's drive;
• Ngorongoro Crater — accessible as part of a multi-day safari circuit.

To extend your itinerary south through the northern circuit, Karatu Simba Lodge offers a convenient stop before Ngorongoro. For a city base, Gran Melia Arusha can serve as your circuit's starting or ending point.

Frequently asked questions

To include Roika Tarangire Tented Lodge in a bespoke safari itinerary, explore our Tanzania safaris.