Sakamanga Hotel

The hotel appears to have been created from a number of unrelated buildings that have been brought together to create this charmingly quirky space, its elements linked by narrow passageways lined with tropical greenery and even more artefacts. The main Saka restaurant is deservedly popular, so book in advance; the Saka Express serves fast foods: pizza baked in a wood oven, kebabs, panini, hamburgers and salads; and there's well-stocked pool bar for cocktails and snacks. Free wi-fi.

Accommodation is varied, with the older rooms being smaller and darker than those in the newer portions. There are 46 rooms in all, catering for all budgets. When booking, ask for a room with aircon (the largest sleeps five), and the suites overlooking the patio or with views of the city are lovely. All the rooms are clean, with comfortable beds and mosquito nets, en-suite bathrooms with good showers, and decor that ranges from calm and colonial to engagingly quirky.

This is a good base from which to explore Tana, although it's recommended that you don't venture far on your own. At the lodge, enjoy the pool, the great restaurants and massage facilities, and don't forget to wander around the building to admire the displays.