Lodge Overview
Kigongoni Lodge is a charming Arusha retreat, hidden amid banana
and coffee plantations in a pocket of tranquility between the lofty
peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru. This lodge serves offers
a delightful and convenient place to relax and recuperate before
and after your safari adventures.
Located outside the hustle and bustle of Arusha, Kigongoni Lodge
is conveniently located on a 70-acre historic coffee farm between
the Kilimanjaro international airport (where you fly into, approximately
a 45 minute drive away) and the Arusha regional airport (where you
start your safari from the next morning, approximately a 15 minute
drive away). You’ll definitely appreciate the easy access
to both to both airports upon your arrival and departure.
Situated on the crest of gently sloping hill, the lodge offers sweeping
panoramic views of the lush countryside, rooftops of neighboring
villages nestled in forest, and the towering peaks of Mt. Kilimanjaro
and Mt. Meru. The lodge rooms, cocktail lounge and restaurant are
all washed in warm, earthy tones of reds and yellows that set the
mood for relaxation and comfort. A shady walkway links the reception
area to the dining hall, bar, cocktail lounge which are all framed
by multiple fireplaces. Happy little patio tables, shaded from the
Africa sun by thatched parasols, offer an inviting setting to sip
a cool beverage on the well-manicured lawn overlooking the turquoise
pool.
A long series of terraced steps descend beyond the pool and wind
around the rest of property, linking a maze of stair-stepped pathways
that lead to eighteen sleeping cottages. The cottages are constructed
of indigenous materials and designed in authentic African style
with canopy beds, en suite bathrooms and a fireplace. Another convenient
feature to this lodge is the complimentary wireless internet access
that is available in the lounge.
Kigongoni Lodge has been developed in harmony with the local community,
and offers ongoing financial support from revenues for the adjacently
located HYPERLINK "http://www.sibusiso.nl/" Sibusiso Foundation,
a center dedicated to improving the quality of life for mentally
disabled children and their families. Guests can enjoy the knowledge
that their stay at Kigongoni has contributed to improving the lives
of local Tanzanians in a tangible way.
In summary, Kigongoni Lodge is not only a convenient venue to springboard
a safari, but also offers guests an environment of relaxation and
comfort that will remembered and appreciated long after the safari
adventures are over.
Location
Kigongoni Lodge, at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt. Meru, is ideally located just 15 minutes from Arusha Airport and 45 minutes from Kilimanjaro International Airport. The location of this lodge makes it a convenient place to relax after your evening arrival into Kilimanjaro airport, and the ideal place to jumpstart your safari early the next morning with a short flight to the Serengeti.
Accommodations
Sleeping accommodations at Kigongoni Lodge consist of 18 comfortable
double/twin cottage with private en suite bathrooms. Each cottage
is well appointed with a canopy bed, nightstands, fireplace, and
an outdoor veranda. The bathroom contains a double vanity with mirror,
a spacious shower, soaking tub, and a flushing toilet. The beds
are comfortable and draped in elegant guaze.
The common facilities at Kigongoni Lodge have an open architecture
that is made cozy by ample fireplaces and warm colors. The reception
area, restaurant, lounge and bar are all extremely comfortable and
inviting. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, with
a cozy fireplace roaring inside both the restaurant and the cocktail
lounge in the evenings. Ample lounge seating in overstuffed leather
armchairs provide a cozy atmosphere to sip your drink and check
your email with complimentary wireless access to high-speed internet.
There is also a nice pool on the property and a charming gift shop
in a new building separate from the main Lodge.
Food and Drink
Kigongoni Lodge features a nice restaurant with both indoor and
outdoor dining, serving international and African cuisine, a la
carte and buffet.
Breakfast usually consists of a light buffet, including a variety
of breads, jams, meats, cereal, milk, and fresh fruit. Eggs paired
with sausage or bacon are cooked to order. Coffee and tea are always
available.
Lunch is served a la carte or buffet style. Dinner is a la carte,
served next to a roaring fireplace on a private table draped in
pressed linens. The evening meal consists of 3 delicious courses
complimented by freshly made breads, with the main entrée
consisting of chicken, beef, lamb or fish. Special diets can be
accommodated upon request.
Special Features
- Prime location midway between Kilimanjaro International Airport and Arusha’s Regional Airport
- Opportunity for views of Mt. Kilimanjaro
- Full English breakfast is served daily in the restaurant
- Dinner is served from 7:30- 9:30 in the main dining room
- Lunch is served between 12-2:30 pm, or boxed meals to go are also available
- Laundry service is available for a fee
- Fully stocked bar; drinks are an optional extra charge
- Fully stocked gift shop and boutique offering unique souvenirs
- Complimentary wireless internet service in the lobby
- Phones are available in each room
- Luggage storage is available for those going on safari or tour
- Swimming pool
- Local tours and shopping excursions are available nearby
