Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life

Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life

Traveler (896)
Our luxury boma
Room & Suite (138)
Pool & Beach (66)
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$367
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About

#1 of 1 lodge in Engare Nanyuki
Location
4.9
Rooms
4.9
Value
4.8
Cleanliness
4.8
Service
4.9
Sleep Quality
4.9
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
ORIGINAL MAASAI LODGE - AFRICA AMINI LIFE "Experiences with Impact" Built and run by the Maasai, the Original Maasai Lodge offers nature, culture and relaxation with views of Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru. Get to know the Maasai through campfire stories, spear throwing or traditional dances. The pool, massage rooms, sauna with kili-view and rest areas are just right for relaxation and regain strength. With a total of 16 original Maasai-bungalows with luxury amneties we guarantee exclusivity, individuality and authenticity. There are 16 earth houses to choose from, which stand in different places in a replicated Maasai village. Each bungalow is powered by solar energy and offers European standard, a toilet and shower with hot water. Every day you can experience the sunrise behind Kilimanjaro and the sunset behind Mount Meru on the terrace, in the midst of the African nature. International and traditional Swahili dishes are refined with home-grown herbs and served in the restaurant. Free activities such as spear throwing, dances, nature walks or campfire conversations allow you to interact with the Maasai. To relax, there is a rest area, a massage room as well as a pool and sauna. To enjoy Tanzania up close in the midst of the Maasai, and the endless expanse of the African steppe all around offer a unique experience. According to local people, the lodge was built on land that was considered uninhabitable. But the country changed when the lodge took its place there. The space, which is filled with life and emotions, radiates a strong energy today. Charitable tourism! AFRICA AMINI ALAMA (NGO) „Experiences with Impact“ stands for the experiences that guests have with us and through whose income the local population can be offered improved and lasting support. All overnight stays as well as activities or excursions booked through Africa Amini Life directly benefit the social, medical and educational projects of Africa Amini Alama. Funds go to the medical centre, schools and orphanages to support local communities such as the Maasai or Meru. The lodge enables you to meet Maasai in a very open and authentic way as the Maasai itself see the lodge as part of their village to welcome tourists. You can experience the traditional way of life of the local inhabitants with all its cultural and social aspects, feel the strength of african nature, learn about new ways of sustainable development and even support the social, medical and educational projects with your stay. Karibu Sana!
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Yoga room
Pool
Free breakfast
Hiking
Entertainment staff
Books, DVDs, music for children
Public wifi
Sauna
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Poolside bar
Evening entertainment
Walking tours
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Kids pool
Highchairs available
Airport transportation
Taxi service
Body wrap
Foot massage
Full body massage
Massage
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Gift shop
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Express check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Room features
Blackout curtains
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Walk-in shower
Complimentary toiletries
Room types
Mountain view
Landmark view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Romantic
Languages Spoken
English, Swahili

Location

Momela Road Arusha, Engare Nanyuki Tanzania
Getting there
Kilimanjaro Airport
22.6 mi
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Arusha Airport
24.5 mi
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Traveler rating
  • 386
  • 18
  • 4
  • 1
  • 1
Time of year
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Language
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Detailed Reviews
Tori D wrote a review Oct 2023
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We spent three amazing days here and it was as amazing as promised. We were welcomed with a song/dance and shown our room, which was an authentic hut made from termite mud, cow dung, and water with recycled soda bottles for small windows (no, it didn't smell). The room was HUGE, the bed was comfortable, the shower was spacious, and there was a western toilet in a separate room. The three meals each day were absolutely delicious and the desserts were divine! There are so many activities to choose from including spear throwing (so fun!), a sundowner (you have to go at least once!), and even a "Maasai Day" which we did. We spent the day dressed as Maasai, visited a Boma with a Maasai family, and we completed daily tasks for men and women (making tea, repairing a Boma with mud, chopping down a tree/collecting firewood). It's an experience of a lifetime that's not to be missed and it makes you appreciate all you have at home. As part of the day, we also did a 90min bush walk with Philipo learning about trees/plants/animals. Every night there's a BBQ of goat by the fireplace (and soup, which is all the intestines and some spices). The managers, Lesse and Unambwe, were attentive to your every need and made sure you had your "gentle wakeup" of coffee/tea/biscuits every morning. Even though you're deep in Maasailand, you feel safe and welcomed. Every night a Maasai warrior will take you to your room and they patrol all night. Thank you for an incredible experience! (Our room had plenty of universal adapters in a power strip and wifi was available at the pool/restaurant/fire pit but not in your room. Tanzania eSIM worked fairly reliably throughout the property).
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Date of stay: October 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OnTheMoveWithRaghu wrote a review Dec 2024
North Carolina
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Africa Amini Lodge is not just a lodge—it’s a 5-star haven nestled in a breathtaking remote location with Mount Kilimanjaro as the perfect backdrop. The staff, all Maasai, deliver hospitality straight from the heart, making every moment unforgettable.

From spear throwing to cultural overviews at sunset, bonfire storytelling, and serene morning nature walks, the activities are beautifully immersive and engaging throughout the day. The chef’s culinary skills are exceptional, accommodating all dietary needs with delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The cherry on top? The stunning swimming pool with an unrivaled view of Mount Kilimanjaro! Africa Amini Lodge is a true gem, blending luxury with authentic cultural experiences. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an extraordinary getaway! I highly recommend it,
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Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip: - Always need Escort during dark, off course hotel management provides and they takes care of...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kalman B wrote a review Oct 2023
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed three nights in this most unusual and wonderful place. We wanted to experience Tanzania's people as well as its animals. This Lodge is the ideal way to experience the Maasai culture up close and personal. We were greeted by a band of singers and a welcome drink of juice. Every day, we watched and participated in traditional Maasai singing and dance along with a bonfire barbeque of goat meat and soup and story telling. The Lodge is located quite remote into the bush but you get outstanding views of the savannah and Mts. Meru and Killimanjaro (when the clouds lift). Every employee/guide/server is a Maasai dressed in their traditional bright costumes. Every one is approachable and friendly, although not all speak English. The food is just fine and the dining facilities quite elegant with views of the savannah. There are flush toilets in each cabin with showers; our cabin was a traditional "boma" made of mud and dung and hay roof but it was truly elegant and comfortable and spacious with terrace and wonderful view of the savannah and mountains. A band of singers sung to us a farewell song which brought tears to our eyes. The Lodge offers tours of local schools where you can talk to the teachers and visit classes. The students sang to us and spoke English with us. In addition, the Lodge will arrange tour of nearby health clinic and a lunch under a huge tree. This was an unforgettalbe experience--you will not see much wildlife, but you will be touched by the Maasai culture.
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Date of stay: October 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: There is a pool, but the water is cold, so be warned. The location is quite far from Arusha and...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
These reviews are machine translated from their original language. Show machine translations?
Stephanie-STCA wrote a review Mar 2024
Nyon, Switzerland
3.0 of 5 bubbles
My opinion will surely stand out and my guide was also very surprised when I told him that I would not recommend this establishment. The view from the swimming pool and from some rooms are very beautiful but this is not the case everywhere. We occupied room No. 2 for 4 people; two adults and two teenagers. It's not at all suitable, there is only a simple curtain for the shower, and no way to have some privacy to change. The beds were very small with a holey mosquito net that fell on our faces. The heat was stifling and we had great difficulty sleeping. I don't understand why we were sold this room for 4 people including 3 adults; I found this very dishonest on the part of the Serengeti big cats agency who told me that no one EVER complained.
Lack of light after dark and no possibility of closing the rooms from the outside. The area around the swimming pool is quickly saturated, the meals very average and the BBQ mutton inedible. For one night it's OK, but we spent two nights there and it's a bit of a waste of time in organizing our safari. I think it can be a nice experience when you're passing through but you shouldn't go specifically to this place.
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Google
Date of stay: February 2024
3.0 of 5 bubblesValue
3.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
3.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bbbvoyages wrote a review Jul 2023
Paris, France
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Unforgettable, possibly our best stay on a 15-day trip! We were concerned when we booked that the experience would feel contrived, but it wasn't at all. The people running the lodge are all Masai, and the revenue they generate goes to support their tribe and to allow them to continue their way of life. The welcome was so warm, food excellent, location gorgeous (great views of Kilimanjaro) and overall experience just unforgettable. Our family of 3 stayed in the 2-room bungalo, it was spacious and extremely comfortable, and we loved the sunset "wake up" coffee and pastries on our front porch. Not to be missed.
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Date of stay: June 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip: Get there before lunch if you can. We arrived around sunset and had missed a lot of the...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca M wrote a review Sep 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The Maasai Lodge compound is perched on a hill with a magnificent view of Kilimanjaro when the cloud cover cooperates. It is staffed by Maasai from the nearby village who are very welcoming and dedicated to teaching others about their culture. The bungalows are designed using Maasai hut materials but have en suite bathrooms and were very clean. The colorful linens and dream catchers hung from the ceiling throughout provided a cheerful interior atmosphere.
Our stay was a terrific immersion into the Maasai culture. Our guide on our private nature walk was very informative about their customs as well as the plants and animals in the area. Our teenage grandsons had great fun in the evening, spear chucking with the Maasai warriors and sitting around the barbeque pit listening to their history while eating freshly roasted goat.
The food was very fresh and well prepared. The lodge is solar powered and the electricity worked fine for lights and charging phones. The lodge has an infinity pool that was too chilly to use in July. The bungalows are built on the hillside and the paths to the dining room/bar/barbeque pit/swimming pool are rocky and steep in places so getting around may be an issue for some.
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Date of stay: July 2022
4.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pvendit wrote a review Sep 2024
Marseille, France
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had an exceptional time: everything was amazing.
A nice “double” room with two single beds on one side and double bed on the other, an incredible view, and exceptional comfort for this atypical place!
A real plus, the pool and the magnificent view from it.
A very informative visit with a masai Justin who not only explained the role of different plants but also allowed us to approach a giraffe and a herd of zebra. It was amazing!
In the early evening a typical Maasai entertainment then a nice moment of sharing around the fire.
Dinner, breakfast and picnic box very hearty.
In short, I recommend for the place suspended out of time, the kindness of people, cleanliness, entertainment, comfort and view... especially on Kilimanjaro when the sky is clear.
If you can spend one night there, do not hesitate!
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Automatically translated
Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kampala, Uganda
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Original Maasai Lodge was the highlight of my two-week stay in Tanzania. I just wish I had stayed longer... one night was not enough for me to ask all the questions I had.

My Maasai hut was everything I wanted it to be: authentic, cosy, colourfully decorated with plenty of eco-aspects, including locally made furniture and soap. (Not a plastic water bottle in sight). Notwithstanding, there were plenty of mod cons: a good hot water shower, lighting and somewhere to charge my phone.

I really loved the little touches like the mini dictionary of Maasai words on the wall. I tried my best to say hello and thank you in Maasai.

I was mesmerised by the complimentary sunset entertainment. I'll never forget the singing and dancing; I really got the impression the Maasai were enjoying themselves, not just entertaining us guests.

I really recommend the nature walk. I came to the lodge expecting to meet the Maasai and hear them sing. I hadn't appreciated how far you can go on foot froom the lodge, with a local guide, to experience some of the local wildlife (and no park fees to pay). Our morning sightings included a number of zebra. It was the perfect way to start the day.

Hundred percent of lodge proceeds go to Amini Life, an organisation that has spent the last 20 years developing quality education and healthcare systems in the local community. If you read some of their literature, you can see how deeply embedded they are in the community. I felt quite humbled to be amongst them.

I've worked in tourism in Uganda / East Africa for 15 years and this is one of the best experiences I've had. I felt they get the balance right: creating an authentic experience for travelers + with local people being at heart of creating real economic and social value + yet plenty of creature comforts for guests.

Thank you to Lesse and staff.
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Date of stay: June 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled solo
Room Tip: Senior & customer-facing staff speak English, Swahili, Maasai & other languages. Majority of...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christina H wrote a review Jul 2024
Netarts, Oregon
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
By all means, if you are in the area, do not miss this place! This has been the highlight of our stays in Africa. The Massai people are amazing. They were there to greet us when we got off the transport, and it would appear that a group of them were assigned to make our stay as wonderful as possible. Possible. There were six of us, and we were fortunate enough to have a cluster of accommodations overlooking the bush. We had our own swimming pools and saunas, and even our own kitchen so breakfast was served to us just outside our rooms each morning, which includes a guided tour of the area and description of the terrain. Elias was a guide for a bush walk since we were too late to sign up for the bush breakfast.
The food was excellent, and the staff did everything they could to make our time as enjoyable as possible with spear throwing and a typical Massai dance. I only wish we had planned to stay here longer!
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Date of stay: July 2024Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Barbara L wrote a review Aug 2023
Zurich, Switzerland
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stay at the lodge in July with our two teenage kids in the beginning of of our safari in Tanzania.
The place is amazing - we stayed for two nights in a Maasai style hat with two rooms and a breathtaking view of the Kilimanjaro. Before sunrise, we were served coffee and hot chocolate which we enjoyed on our terrace while watching the sunrise. We saw Zebras and giraffes from our room.
The staff is very friendly answering any question or request with a smile and also the food is delicious with good vegetarian options available as well. There is plenty of activities going on at the lodge including a nature walk with a Maasai guide.
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip: Bring some jackets and warmer clothes as it was quite chilly in the morning in July.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
willaly asked a question May 2022
Monmouthshire, United Kingdom8 contributions1 helpful vote
Are there power sockets in the bedrooms for charging batteries etc. Thanks
Answer from sand
4 contributions
The border is about 4hrs drive on a rough road through the wildlife management area Sinya. The border is open 24hrs however since they pass through the conservancy then they will need to also pay transit fees. If they are going to Amboseli, it's also possible to go through Namanga border. From the lodge to the border is 3hrs. 1hr on rough road and 2hrs on tarmac road. No conservation fees applicable on this route.
BellaGal00 asked a question Feb 2018
New York City, New York220 contributions56 helpful votes
Hi I have booked for March 1. I arrive at 9pm at the airport, how can I arrange for a pick-up?
Answer from DickEbird
Arusha, Tanzania17 contributions7 helpful votes
Contact the lodge, they should be able to arrange a transfer. They have their own vehicles... Airport taxis are quite expensive, so avoid the unless you pre-arrange the fare
OnTheMoveWithRaghu wrote a tip Dec 2024
North Carolina5 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"- Always need Escort during dark, off course hotel management provides and they takes care of it. - Mindful of bugs - Tip the staff generous"
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Yentl V wrote a tip Oct 2024
8 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Just let you guide by them, they will make your stay perfect And try to stay more then 1 night We regret we had to leave after only a night"
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African Soil Safaris wrote a tip Jul 2024
Nairobi, Kenya39 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"carry worm cloths the place can be very cold in the evening "
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GorillandTravel C wrote a tip Jun 2024
4 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"I visited Mid June and the weather was perfect "
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Donald W wrote a tip Apr 2024
Bloomingdale, Georgia12 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"If you are nervous about insects and mice, this may not be the place to stay. It's surrounded by wilderness."
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Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Engare Nanyuki area.
PRICE RANGE
$432 - $482 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
TanzaniaArusha RegionEngare Nanyuki
NUMBER OF ROOMS
16
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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ORIGINAL MAASAI LODGE - AFRICA AMINI LIFE - Updated 2025

Frequently Asked Questions about Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life
What are some of the property amenities at Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life?
Top room amenities include blackout curtains, a view of a nearby landmark, and a view of the mountains.
What food & drink options are available at Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life?
Yes, guests have access to a pool, a sauna, and a yoga room during their stay.
Does Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life have airport transportation?
Yes, Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Swahili.
Does Original Maasai Lodge - Africa Amini Life have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.
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