Ziwani Lodge occupies an escarpment overlooking the western shore of Lake Eyasi, in northern Tanzania. Seven cottages powered exclusively by solar and wind energy, architecture in stone and wood with neutral tones, and direct access to Hadzabe territory: this address targets travelers seeking a nature and cultural stop between Tarangire and the Serengeti.

Why stay at Ziwani Lodge

Three concrete reasons guide the choice of this lodge. First, its location: an escarpment facing the Great Rift Valley, with open views over Lake Eyasi and the surrounding palm and acacia forests. Next, its operations: 100% renewable energy (solar and wind), stone and wood architecture, limited use of glass, which maintains a light footprint on an isolated site. Finally, its cultural grounding: the lodge provides access to immersion activities with the Hadzabe, one of the last hunter-gatherer peoples of East Africa.

Atmosphere

The architectural approach contrasts sharply with the palace-like lodges of the northern circuit. Volumes remain simple, local materials dominate, and wooden shutters at the windows regulate temperature without air conditioning. Neutral tones—earth, stone, light wood—resonate with the escarpment and Rift light. The lodge roof serves as an aperitif spot at day's end, with views over the lake and valley. The overall effect aims for understated elegance rather than theatrical presentation.

The cottages

Seven cottages in total, divided into two categories:

• Standard cottages: one double bed or two twin beds with mosquito nets, fan, bedside tables with lighting, desk and chair. Private bathroom with walk-in shower and double sink.
• Family cottages: two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, featuring the same amenities as the standards.

Windows equipped with shutters allow you to manage daytime heat and nighttime coolness without air conditioning.

Dining and services

The main dining room, with high ceilings, opens onto a veranda and shaded patio. Meals are taken indoors or under the patio depending on the time and season. The menu is built on fresh produce, served à la carte or buffet-style, with a wine list and bar. The team prepares packed meals for extended outings and adapts menus to any dietary requirements noted at booking. In the evening, aperitifs on the lodge roof are the standing appointment before dinner.

Immersion with the Hadzabe

The main interest of a stay lies in the activities offered with the Hadzabe community, organized in partnership with them:

• Traditional hunting trip early morning with the men, who use hand-made bows. A guided activity that sheds light on tracking techniques and social organization rather than game capture itself.
• Gathering with the women: identification of roots, berries and fruits, and knowledge linked to local flora.
• Camp life: construction of huts from branches and leaves, seasonal movements, domestic organization.
• Rituals and songs, when the community's calendar permits and with their consent.

These activities require a posture of respectful observation: photography by permission only, no interference with practices.

Location and access

The lodge is situated on the western shore of Lake Eyasi, southwest of Karatu and Lake Manyara National Park. Two access options:

• By road, as part of a guided safari connecting Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Lake Eyasi fits logically between Manyara and Ngorongoro crater.
• By air, from Arusha or Kilimanjaro to Lake Manyara airport, then approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by road to the lodge.

When to visit

The Lake Eyasi region can be visited year-round, with two more comfortable windows. The dry season, from June to October, offers passable tracks and bearable temperatures; it is also the period most conducive to outings with the Hadzabe, who remain more mobile during the rainy season. The short dry season in January-February offers a second window, often less crowded. The long rains (March-May) complicate road access.

Other accommodations in Tanzania

To build a combined itinerary, several complementary stops:

• Karatu Simba Lodge, a logical base between Manyara, Ngorongoro and Lake Eyasi.
• Gran Melia Arusha, for arrival or departure night near Kilimanjaro airport.
• Karafuu Beach Resort or Breezes Beach Club & Spa, to extend with a beach stop in Zanzibar.

Planning the rest of your journey

Ziwani Lodge makes full sense within a 10 to 14-day itinerary combining northern safaris and cultural immersion. To build your complete itinerary, explore our Tanzania trips.