Suricata Boma Lodge stands at Mto wa Mbu, at the junction of the Rift Valley and Lake Manyara. Twelve rooms in natural materials, an open kitchen with views of the chefs at work, and a spa featuring oils from Zanzibar: the property embodies understated comfort, anchored in a safari setting.

Why choose Suricata Boma Lodge

The lodge brings together three compelling assets for exploring northern Tanzania: a location 2 km from Mto wa Mbu's centre (gateway to Manyara Park), a veranda overlooking the lake, and a culinary approach rooted in organic produce from neighbouring farms, including the Boma farm run by the lodge itself.

The architecture favours thatch roofs and traditional volumes, without compromising on the amenities expected at this level. It's an ideal stop for travellers combining Manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater.

Atmosphere

The lodge's spirit centres on its connection to the landscape. Common areas are organised around fireplaces and a campfire where guests share safari stories as evening falls. From the veranda, views stretch across Lake Manyara; you may spot hippos in the distance, though sightings aren't guaranteed. The pace is unhurried, fitting naturally between bush days and restful evenings.

Rooms

The lodge features 12 rooms built in traditional style, with natural materials and thatch roofs. Each has a private bathroom (hot shower, bathtub in some), mosquito nets, flat-screen television, hair dryer, slippers and robes, and bottled water. Room configurations suit couples, families and solo travellers alike, with private bungalows and seating areas overlooking the gardens.

Dining and facilities

An engaging kitchen

The main restaurant operates on an open-kitchen concept: guests can chat with chefs and take part in food preparation. Breakfast highlights homemade pastries; lunch and dinner are prepared to order, either indoors or on the expansive veranda facing the lake.

Menus draw on organic produce from neighbouring farms, starting with the lodge's own Boma farm, which guests can visit to see vegetable crops. For local specialities, the pool bar serves nyama choma (grilled meat) and mboga choma (grilled vegetables), accompanied by fresh juices, smoothies or cocktails.

Chelewa Spa and pool

Chelewa Spa offers massages and facial and body treatments using organic products from Zanzibar. An outdoor pool completes the relaxation offering, with the pool bar nearby.

Location and access

The lodge sits in Mto wa Mbu, 2 km from the town centre, in a peaceful setting near local amenities. Two ways to reach the lodge from Arusha:

• By road: allow 3 to 4 hours of driving through northern Tanzania's landscapes.
• By air: a flight of roughly 50 minutes reaches Lake Manyara's landing strip, 4.2 km from the lodge.

Nearby

Mto wa Mbu's position makes it an excellent base for the classic northern safari triangle:

• Lake Manyara National Park: within immediate reach, known for its tree-climbing lions and water birds.
• Tarangire National Park: accessible as a day trip, renowned for elephants and baobabs.
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area: the crater can be visited as an excursion from the lodge.

To extend your safari southwards, Karatu Simba Lodge makes a natural stop before Ngorongoro. On arrival or departure, Gran Melia Arusha offers comfortable accommodation near the airport. For a beach extension to Zanzibar, consider Breezes Beach Club & Spa or Karafuu Beach Resort.

Building your itinerary

Suricata Boma Lodge fits naturally into a northern Tanzania circuit combining Manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro. To confirm dates, durations and stops to suit your pace, explore our Tanzania trips.