Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

The crater is home to exceptional wildlife; over 25,000 animals live in this, the world’s largest intact caldera.

Species include endangered black rhino, lions, elephants, hippos, buffalo and thousands of flamingos, which transform the lake into a blanket of pink. For the best game viewing and beautiful sunrises, leave at dawn and beat the crowds.

Aside from game drives, optional activities include private bush breakfast or lunch on the crater floor, a visit to traditional Maasai homes or watching Maasai dancing with flame torches.

Or take a break from safari to visit Olduvai Gorge, where human fossils dating back nearly two million years, and prehistoric animal remains, have been found.

Kids of all ages are welcomed, with a WILDchild programme teaching them woodcarving, tree planting, baking and bow and arrows. Child-minding for toddlers is available on request.

Personal butlers will stoke fires and run bubble-baths strewn with rose petals; suites are stocked with luxurious extras such as iPod docks, yoga mats and workout weights.

Rooms in Tree Camp are closer to the rim so have the best views, although they are slightly smaller than those in North and South Camps.

There is no spa or pool here but in these jaw-dropping surroundings, they’re really not missed.

The nearby Manyara airstrip is 30 minutes’ flight from Arusha – then it’s a 1.5-hour drive onward to the lodge. The crater floor is 40 minutes’ drive from camp.