Karibu Lion’s Paw Camp
Eastern Rim, Ngorongoro Crater — Karibu Camps & Lodges
Karibu Lion’s Paw Camp sits within a forest of red thorn acacia on the eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, roughly ten minutes’ drive from the crater floor. The camp is one of five properties operated by Karibu Camps & Lodges, a locally owned Tanzanian collection.
Location and Landscape
The crater floor below holds one of Africa’s most concentrated wildlife populations within a single, enclosed ecosystem — lion, elephant, buffalo, wildebeest and the occasional leopard sighting, alongside a small black rhino population. The camp’s eastern position and short descent road give guests efficient access to the floor without the longer drives required from rim lodges positioned further around the crater.
Accommodation
The camp offers fifteen luxury suites with balcony views toward the crater, set within the surrounding forest. An eco-friendly operating ethos runs through the property, alongside a dedicated bar and lounge area set among the trees and barbecue grill evenings held under the stars.
Safari Experience
Game drives descend into the crater for full-day exploration of the floor’s wildlife, with the camp’s eastern position offering a quicker start than many competing rim lodges. Evenings back at camp typically include time at the bar and lounge, with occasional barbecue dinners adding variety to the standard dining routine.
When to Visit
The Ngorongoro Crater offers strong wildlife viewing throughout the year, given its enclosed ecosystem and permanent water. Most itineraries allocate one to two nights here, generally as part of a wider northern Tanzania circuit alongside the Serengeti and Tarangire.
Combining Karibu Lion’s Paw Camp with Other Tanzania Destinations
Lion’s Paw Camp pairs naturally with a Serengeti stay at Karibu’s Mara River, Sametu or Woodlands camps, or with Tarangire Elephant Springs as part of a complete northern Tanzania circuit.
For Tanzania planning: Tanzania Safari Guide
For more accessible camps: Tanzania Safari Camps
If you are considering Karibu Lion’s Paw Camp as part of a Tanzania safari, we would be pleased to begin with a conversation.