Lion’s Paw Ngorongoro Camp

DELUXE

LOCATION: Ngorongoro Crater Rim – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Perched on the eastern rim of the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, Lion’s Paw Camp offers an exceptional safari retreat surrounded by dense acacia forest and dramatic crater landscapes. The camp’s elevated location provides breathtaking views across the crater and the surrounding highlands while placing guests just minutes from the descent road to the crater floor.

Nestled in a quiet grove of red-thorn acacia trees, the camp blends authentic safari charm with modern comfort, making it an ideal base for exploring one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife destinations and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Accommodation & Room Features

Lion’s Paw Camp features beautifully designed luxury tented suites raised on wooden platforms, offering privacy, comfort, and stunning natural surroundings. The rooms combine traditional safari aesthetics with elegant interiors, allowing guests to experience the wilderness without sacrificing comfort.

Room Highlights include:

  • Spacious tented suites with private verandas overlooking forest or crater views
  • King or twin four-poster beds with mosquito nets
  • Ensuite bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets
  • Heated electric blankets and gas heaters for cool crater evenings
  • Writing desk, seating area, and charging facilities
  • Tea and coffee making facilities
  • Complimentary toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers

Each tent is thoughtfully positioned to ensure privacy and tranquility, allowing guests to relax while immersed in the beauty of the Ngorongoro highlands.

Lion’s Paw is among the few luxury camps located directly on the crater rim, giving guests convenient and early access to game drives inside the Ngorongoro Crater.

Facilities & Services

Guests at Lion’s Paw Camp enjoy a range of welcoming facilities designed to enhance their safari experience:

  • Main lodge with lounge and panoramic viewing decks
  • Restaurant serving freshly prepared local and international cuisine
  • Bar and relaxing lounge area overlooking the crater
  • Evening campfires for storytelling and sundowners
  • Laundry services
  • 24-hour electricity and charging points
  • Wi-Fi in selected areas
  • Cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages

The elevated dining and lounge areas provide spectacular views of the crater floor, making them perfect spots for relaxing after a day of safari adventures.

Why We Recommend It

We recommend Lion’s Paw Camp for travelers seeking a classic safari experience combined with one of the best locations in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Its proximity to the crater descent road allows guests to reach the crater floor early for exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, including sightings of the Big Five.

With comfortable tented suites, warm hospitality, and breathtaking scenery, Lion’s Paw Camp is an excellent choice for couples, families, and safari enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable stay in Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destination.

Location & Nearby Attractions

  • Ngorongoro Crater descent road: 10 minutes
  • Lake Magadi (Crater floor): approximately 20 minutes
  • Olduvai Gorge: about 1 hour
  • Lake Manyara Airstrip: approximately 1 hour by air connection from Arusha
  • Arusha Town: about 3 hours by road

Accommodation near Ngorongoro Crater

Lion’s Paw Camp is one of the few accommodations located directly on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, providing easy access to the crater floor for early morning game drives. Its secluded forest setting and breathtaking views make it a perfect place to experience the wildlife and landscapes of this iconic natural wonder.

Include Lion’s Paw Camp in your safari itinerary

Lion’s Paw Camp fits perfectly into a Northern Tanzania safari circuit and can easily be combined with iconic destinations such as the Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park. Its strategic location on the Ngorongoro Crater rim makes it an excellent stop during a Tanzania safari itinerary.