Lemala Osonjoi Lodge

Lemala Osonjoi Lodge is the newest addition to the renowned Lemala safari collection. It sits in a prime position within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), on a hill just back from the Crater rim.

The name “Osonjoi” comes from the local trees that have important cultural meaning to the Maasai people, reflecting the lodge’s commitment to supporting the land and local communities.

The lodge is strategically located close to the Lemala Gate. This gate uses a more gradual road for the descent, which is a major advantage for guests. The eastern side of the Crater rim, where Osonjoi is located, sees fewer visitors than the main western side, especially during the crucial early morning and late afternoon hours.

The suites at Lemala Osonjoi are among the most spacious and luxurious in the entire Ngorongoro area, offering the perfect warm haven after a day on the cool Crater rim.

The lodge features 20 luxurious guest suites (including two large two-bedroom suites perfect for families or groups), which are spaced well apart to ensure maximum privacy.

Since it can get cool on the Ngorongoro Crater rim at night, comfort is a priority. Suites include a slow-burning wood stove, warm winter-weight duvets, and hot water bottles to ensure a cozy night’s sleep.

Suites feature large picture windows that allow the beautiful highland light to flood in, and they accommodate an oversized king-size bed.

Bathroom Luxury: The spacious en-suite bathrooms contain a dressing area, a flush toilet, and a large walk-in shower. The two-bedroom suites offer an extra touch of luxury with a double sink, an indoor shower, and a free-standing bathtub.

The ‘Secret Nook’: Guests will enjoy a specially designed day bed—the perfect spot for quiet time with a book or a hot chocolate at the end of an exciting safari day.

Unique Amenity: The main lodge area features a comfortable lounge, bar, an outdoor viewing deck with a roaring fire, and a rare luxury for the highlands: an indoor heated swimming pool.

Experiences and Safari Advantage

The experience at Lemala Osonjoi is designed to put you closer to the wildlife when they are most active, giving you a serious advantage over other travelers.

Quick Access Game Drives

The proximity to the Lemala Gate means game drives can start as early as 6:00 AM. Guests can be down among Ngorongoro’s abundant wildlife on the Crater floor within 10–15 minutes of leaving the lodge. This quick access is crucial for photographers who demand the best light conditions and for seeing the animals when they are most active.

Catered Crater Lunches

Lemala Osonjoi is one of the very few properties that has the privilege of providing full catered lunches at a special private site down on the Crater floor. This special privilege allows guests to spend an entire safari day on the Crater Floor in comfort, maximizing viewing time without having to rush back up to the rim.

Walks and Wellness

Guided Walks: Escorted walks are available into the forest and along the Crater rim. You will be joined by an armed ranger and a local Maasai guide who can share knowledge of medicinal plants and local wildlife.

Wellness: A separate spa suite is nestled among the trees, offering guests a secluded location to relax and unwind with expert treatments.