Chem Chem Lodge

Chem Chem Lodge

Chem Chem Lodge is the flagship property of the Chem Chem collection, set on the western edge of the privately managed Burunge Wildlife Management Area – a 20,000-hectare (49,000-acre) wildlife corridor connecting Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara. Known as “the sunset camp” and credited as the birthplace of the “Slow Safari” concept, Chem Chem encourages guests to get out of the vehicle and genuinely experience the bush on foot, with no fixed schedules.

Suites

Eight secluded, widely spaced tent-style suites (100 sqm each, with the nearest neighbour at least 80m away) are built from natural wood, canvas, cotton and lava rock, raised on elevated platforms and connected by wooden walkways and pebbled pathways through palms and acacias. En-suite bathrooms feature twin vanities, an indoor bath and a romantic outdoor shower. One family suite consists of two adjoining tents with twin beds for children.

Main Lodge

The main lodge building is designed in the form of a flamingo with its wings spread for landing: one wing houses a full-service gourmet restaurant and an outdoor fireplace, while the other holds a bar, lounge, indoor fireplace and a fully stocked library, plus a viewing deck over Lake Manyara. A swimming pool and gym are hidden among the trees, alongside the Chem Chem Spa.

Activities and Access

Privately guided game drives and walking safaris take place in the private concession, Lake Manyara National Park and Tarangire National Park, with wildlife including lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra and giraffe regularly seen grazing close to camp, plus over 400 bird species drawn to Lake Manyara. The lodge has its own private airstrip approximately 15 minutes away by game drive, with included transfers, and is approximately a 45-minute game drive from its sister properties Little Chem Chem and Forest Chem Chem. Open year-round except for a short break from early April to mid-May.