Budget
Tanzania
West Kilimanjaro
Located near the Maasai village of Ngabobo, Africa Amini Hillside Retreat provides a tranquil escape overlooking Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro. The retreat is part of the Africa Amini Life initiative, focusing on sustainable tourism and community support. This eco-friendly lodge invites guests to experience Tanzanian culture through activities that support local Maasai communities.
The Hillside Retreat provides a more secluded setting than its sister property, the Africa Amini Maasai Lodge, making it ideal for those seeking solitude with cultural enrichment. A stay here supports Africa Amini Life’s community projects, from healthcare to education initiatives for local Maasai and Meru people. Room rates typically range from $150 to $300 per night, inclusive of meals and basic cultural activities, with seasonal discounts available.
Attributes:
Cultural Immersion, Scenic View Location, Small and Intimate
Rooms
Africa Amini Hillside Retreat features several individual bungalows, each designed to blend into the landscape and made with locally sourced materials. Every bungalow offers:
Spacious Bedrooms: Each bungalow includes a king-size or twin beds with locally made blankets, giving guests both comfort and a sense of local culture.
En-suite Bathrooms: Bathrooms are rustic yet functional, equipped with showers, hot water, and eco-friendly toiletries.
Private Verandas: Bungalows include private outdoor spaces with seating and views of the nearby mountains, allowing guests to enjoy the landscape in peace.
The natural decor in each room incorporates traditional designs, and the simplicity of the rooms appeals to guests looking for a truly local experience.
Meals
Dining at Africa Amini Hillside Retreat emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Meals include a variety of Tanzanian dishes as well as continental options, crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the region. Dining options include:
Breakfast: Typically includes a range of fruits, homemade bread, eggs, and Tanzanian coffee, served with views over the hills.
Lunch and Dinner: Main meals focus on Tanzanian staples such as Ugali, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables. Ingredients are sourced from local markets to support the community.
Special Dietary Needs: The retreat can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets if requested in advance.
Meals are served in a communal setting, fostering an intimate dining experience. Guests often share stories with the retreat staff, adding to the cultural immersion.
Accessibility
The Hillside Retreat is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Kilimanjaro International Airport, with transportation accessible via both paved and unpaved roads. Transfers can be arranged through the retreat, offering a straightforward option for guests.
While the property is set on a hillside, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility, the staff provides attentive assistance. The retreat’s more remote location requires some preparation for guests but provides unparalleled privacy and panoramic views of the region.
