An elegant and intimate lodge located in a private concession between Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks, Chem Chem Lodge offers spectacular views over a waterhole and plains with Lake Manyara in the distance. Combining European style with African influences, this owner-run lodge brings together earthy yet modern elements.

Perfectly situated at the heart of the northern Tanzania safari experience, Chem Chem is a great choice for an itinerary that also takes in Tanzania’s flagship destinations: the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Take the time to relax here after all those early-morning starts on safari and enjoy a soothing massage or treatment at the spa. The pace at Chem Chem Lodge echoes the Swahili saying, ‘Pole, pole‘, which means ‘slowly, slowly’. There is no rush here.

But no rush does not mean there is nothing to do – there is also plenty on offer at Chem Chem: go on a ‘slow safari’ or a guided walking tour of the private concession, observe thousands of flamingos and other water birds on the lake in season, or take a private guided 4×4 safari to Lake Manyara National Park. For an entirely different perspective, take a hot-air balloon safari and float over the mesmerising landscape of the Great Rift Valley. Children will enjoy learning traditional Maasai spear-throwing techniques, decorating safari-themed biscuits and playing soccer at a local community school (do consider packing soccer balls and stationery for the pupils).