Ngorongoro Crater Lodge bills itself as ‘Maasai meets Versailles’… This is a place of crystal chandeliers, silver service, teak panelling and Persian carpets. Perched on the unbroken rim of the caldera, it provides a complete contrast to the untamed nature outside. Here there are plenty of little extras for those who enjoy pampering such as a thoughtfully stocked wine cellar, in-room massages next to roaring fires, high-end binoculars to borrow for game drives or gym equipment for private workouts in your suite.

Activities are as varied as the décor. Meet the villagers at Olduvai Gorge, hike up Empakai Crater or – the undisputed main attraction – spend your days exploring Ngorongoro Crater, looking for a rare black rhino or an elusive leopard.