Wow, our favorite lodge we stayed at during our 10 day Tanzanian safari roadtrip. We stayed 2 nights and wish we had stayed more. The setting above the Rhotia valley is spectacular. The tents are also really nicely done, and we loved the stylish little touches (eg. the robes!). The pool area was lovely, and the perfect spot to cool down and enjoy the view after a day in the crater. Some reviews complained about the distance to Ngorongo but we didn’t find this to be the case. It was only 30 min to the entrance to the confirmation area, so with a typical early start you could easily be one of the first ones in. The real issue is the drive from the gate to the descending road to the crater, but there is no way around that unless you want to fork out to stay inside the conservation area / along the crater - and we didn’t! The food was also really good, probably the best of the lodges we stayed at (despite not being the most expensive!). Good food made with love - especially the BBQ they did one night, I ate my weight in pork ribs. Lastly - the staff were *so good* :) Friendly and with good senses of humor :)

Only one small thing is that the beer fridge could be kept colder ;)

One of the best lodges during our safari! The staff was incredibly friendly, and we had great conversations with them. Their attention to detail was outstanding. They even helped me to get my toothbrush back from another hotel :) Good was so gooooooood. The pool area was amazing, and the views from the lodge were breathtaking. I don’t understand some of the reviews saying the tents are dark—you can literally open them almost all the way around without worrying about mosquitoes, as everything is covered with nets. The bathroom had a fantastic shower, and everything was spotlessly clean. We truly enjoyed our stay and wished we could have stayed longer!

Literally nothing

The place is a pretty upscale tent camp (e.g. nice shower), no complaints about the food. And the pool was a nice touch. It is a good choice for proximity to Ngorongoro Crater, which has become so popular that you might encounter heavy traffic regardless of where you are (unless you really pay the extra cash to stay in one of the lodges within the conservation area). We were there in October, and the total trip, from lodge to entering the area (including paperwork at the gate) was about an hour. Overall a very good choice, no regrets.

Nothing really.

The rooms were fantastic with amazing views and super peaceful. The sounds of the animals from the Crater at night were very cool to listen to. The food was really tasty, very big portions and the lunch boxes were epic. Special mention for the staff who were friendly and went above and beyond when it was a birthday...made a cake, sang and danced and just made it a wonderful night!

Pay close attention to the directions if driving there by yourself! It's a little off the beaten path, but totally, and completely worth it!!

Located at the edge of Ngorongoro conservation area, Pembeni benefits from great views, relative isolation, and proximity to the forest. You can hear animals at night while waking up to impressive views. The staff is incredible attentive and accommodated all our requests. Food was good too with breakfast cooked to order until 10 am. The tents were in good shape with very nice furniture.

Rooms would benefit from additional electric lighting, specially in the bathroom.

The location was stunning. Such a special place. The food was so incredible that I kept on taking double portions all of the time. Staff was very accommodating and kind. The swimming pool was a perfect cherry on top

The tents need a bit of care - they were not maintained well and might need upgrading 6/10

The location is secluded and very quiet on the top of a hill in a forest. I had a great and peacful night sleep with the sound of the rain and birds early morning. No mosquitoes or biting bugs. The view from my tent was beautiful especially at sunset. Tents are very clean and good size. Air is clean. staff are very helpful and friendly. Thanks to Abbas for taking care of all my needs during my stay. Meals prepared by the local chef are delicious and satisfying. I highly recommend to stay here if you are planning for safari in either Ngorongoro crater, Tarangire national park or lake manyara (however Serengete is far way). I had a good internet connection in the tent. I recommend going for the ones closer to the reception (number 1-4) if you want to receive internet connection in your tent. Thanks for the great stay at Rhotia. Definitely staying here next time I visit Tanzania :)

The google location is wrong, I advise to follow the signs to the hotel on the road. Far away from Arusha Airport (at least 2 hours 20 mins drive)

Breakfast was good. We enjoyed and felt like there was a good variety of items. The staff were excellent and helpful. The owner of the property was also very helpful and kind to us. We had a great stay and highly recommend this property.

The tents were a bit dim, but this also soothing. Other than that there isn't anything negative I can say about this property.

The staff and owners are very helpful, polite, kind, and welcoming. They helped to accommodate our dietary needs and they made everyone feel at home.

The tents are a bit dark. It would be helpful to have an additional light that can be turned on and off to brighten the room a little. Other than that, it was a wonderful experience.

Beautiful location in the middle of local houses and farmland. Staff so friendly and couldn’t have been more helpful. Breakfast and packed lunches fab.

Difficult to find in the dark - suggest provide clear directions (don’t rely on google maps as it’s off the beaten track!) Suppers not as good as would have hoped.