Rhotia Valley Tented Lodge

The traditionally-built lodge sits perched on a ridge overlooking the Ngorongoro Forest, a green valley of local farms, and the children's home on the opposite hill. The main thatched building contains a simple lounge with a few cosy sofas around the fireplace, and a dining room (with Wifi!) leading out to a pretty swimming pool. There's also a herb and vegetable garden whose produce goes straight to the kitchen, and a bakery that supplies the lodge, school and orphanage.

Fifteen tents include twelve doubles, one triple and two family units that sleep four. They're more functional than luxurious, but definitely comfortable enough. Raised on wooden decks with views over the forest, they stay nice and cool under thatched roofs. Inside, furnishings are simple: twin or double beds, a wicker chair and a luggage rack. A few locally-made throws add a bit of colour. At the back of the tent is an ensuite bathroom with a toilet and a shower, divided by a bamboo shield.

The lodge isn't really a safari destination, although trips to the Ngorongoro Crater can be arranged, and the full day's walk from the crater rim back to the lodge is a must. You can also walk through the forest of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and explore the elephant caves, or mountain bike through the surrounding fields and farmlands. For something different, pay a visit to the children's home (scheduled visits take place every evening from 5 to 6) or the lodge's bakery. Day trips to Lake Eyasi to visit the Hadzabe, the original hunter-gatherers of the region, are also possible.