Moivaro, which is located about 7km east of Arusha (and 2km off the Arusha-Moshi road) offers accommodation in 40 cottage-style stone-and-thatch rooms nestled in expansive, wonderful gardens. With its minimalist, natural atmosphere, Moivaro makes a satisfying choice for those coming to Tanzania to experience something completely different.

The simple, functional and cozy rooms have a mix of single, double and triple bedding. All have unscreened windows, basic bathrooms and small fire places (which are very nice for chilly Arusha evenings).

There is free Wi-Fi in common areas, a good restaurant serving tasty, well-prepared four-course dinners and other meals, and an evening bonfire circle. But the highlight of the lodge is the beautiful, 40-acre garden filled with poinsettia, hibiscus, bird-of-paradise, bougainvillea and many other indigenous flowers, countless birds, banana and coffee trees, bamboo and much more, all lying in the shadow of stately Mt Meru. At one end is a pleasant pool, which is amenable for lounging in the afternoon sun.

Cultural tours to nearby Moivaro village can be arranged, as can day trips to nearby Arusha National Park. There is also a fun jogging/walking path around the edge of the property.

While business or upmarket travelers may miss some of the fittings of more ‘traditional’ hotels, it is nevertheless supremely comfortable and especially well-suited as an overnight base for travelers finishing a Kilimanjaro climb. The relaxing, bird-filled gardens, hot showers and refreshing pool will seem an ideal antidote to the rigors of the mountain.