Kenya & Tanzania: Kenys-Tanz: Various Lodges we stayed: Part-1:

Most of lodges we stayed were like a 4-start hotel, an oasis in the desert. they all had running water (hot/cold), internet, restaurant swimming pool, sauna etc. and hospitality.

Electricity: The main source of power for the lodge is solar energy. It has a large solar farm with over 2,000 panels and a total capacity of 660 kW. This is supplemented by a significant battery storage system (1,300 kWh) to store surplus energy for use at night or on cloudy days. For backup, the lodge also has three diesel-powered generators.

Water: The lodge's main source of water is a natural spring located nearby. The water is collected, pumped to an underground tank, and treated through chlorination and a Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant to make it safe for consumption.

Internet: They use satellite technology to provide decent internet access to all.

Food: Every hotel we stayed, offered local, western as well as Indian food, that is now integral part of their culture. Samosa, Chapati, Nan, Rice, Chickpea and other bean curries and various type of Daal/pulses. At one the hotels, they even offered Chole-Bhature.

Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (Kenya), 3,500 ft above sea level:

The lodge is situated in within Amboseli National Park, and most wildlife is within 10 km. from the back side of our room, we could see elephants, Impalas, Wildebeest & Zebras.

Its design is heavily inspired by traditional Maasai culture, with hand-painted wildlife murals, local artifacts, and architecture reminiscent of a Maasai village (manyatta).

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, 4,500 ft above sea level:

Lodges in the Lake Manyara area and is built with a strong focus on blending into the natural environment and reflecting the local culture. The design of many of thus lodge draws inspiration from the local Maasai and Mbu people, incorporating traditional architectural styles and local art.

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, 7,500 ft above sea level::

It is located on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater and offer panoramic views of the crater floor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World”.

The crater, a massive volcanic caldera, is a natural amphitheater teeming with a high concentration of wildlife, including the "Big Five”.

The lodge's design is heavily influenced by its prehistoric surroundings, specifically the nearby Olduvai Gorge, often referred to as the "cradle of mankind." The architecture is integrated seamlessly into the jagged rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, using local river stone and indigenous vines to camouflage the buildings. The interior decor features stylized cave paintings, Maasai carvings, and artifacts, creating an atmosphere that feels both ancient and luxurious.