Songota Falls Lodge Arusha

Located outside of the city, Songota Falls Lodge Arusha is a little lovely place with beautiful green surroundings. We stayed there for three nights and really enjoyed our time. Joyce did everything for us, especially her meals were delicious. Prices are good as well; she helped organizing our trip to the ngorongoro crater. Thanks a lot to Joyce and her team. (asante sana Joyce).

Location

My colleagues and I were dropped off in Ausha after our long and exhausting three weeks in Nairobi. The hired driver was given clear directions to go past Mountain view Hotel and make a left at the ATM machine.

Sounds like a bed will be just minutes away. We piled into his tired looking Toyota and headed out of Arusha down the Moshi Road.

I'm looking for the Mountain view when the driver makes a left turn up a side street and heads through the village of Oldudai.

I guess he must know a shortcut. His low clearance ride scraped and struggled through a maze of ruts and wrong turns. The car stalled new fewer than four times and it was hard to coax to start.

My colleague and I looked at each other with wide eyes and concern. He asked for directions as many times as the car died.

After over an hour (if you turn left at the ATM you should be there in well under ten minutes) he found the gate to Songota Falls Lodge.

The tall gate opened to a lush garden dotted with thatched roof huts and a beautiful view out to a valley and jungle. We were greeted by Joyce Malingi, delicious juice in hand for us. Her smile and eyes welcomed us and set stressed, weary travelers at ease.

At the Hotel

A tall gate hides a pretty garden sprouting several thatched cottages. We were welcomed by extremely hardworking and thoroughly competent

Accommodation

It is a beautiful piece of property, with extremely well thought out and pretty cottages.

Our cottage was tiny, but colorful, and charming. Very pretty. We were a little surprised to see the "seamless" fit between the loo, shower and the bedroom proper. ( Ps: there is no "separate" bathroom. there is no door). The beds were very comfortable. The view from the cottage was wonderful.

Food and Drinks

The best part about our stay was the meals. In our two day stay (one day before the safari, and the second after we got back), every single meal we had at Songota was delicious. Joyce, who owns and runs the place, is truly talented. Each meal was simple, tasty and had an extra special zing to it. Great hospitality and brilliant food. Excellent value for money.

What to Do

It a place to go to do 'nothing much' though hikes to the nearby Songota falls etc can be arranged. Joyce is always on hand to help with any special requests. It is removed from the bustle and city aspect of Arusha, and you wont be able to easily walk to a store etc. Perfect for recouping after a safari.

Our final night Joyce made us a tableside pork and chicken BBQ. Seriously one of the best meals I think I've ever had. I wish I could take pictures of flavors. Sooo good!

Looking for a place to stay when in Arusha that's away from downtown? This is the place. Joyce and crew will make you feel welcome, cared for and fill your belly proper.

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