Speke Bay Lodge

A special hotel. The bed, the bath, the food, the service; all of the elements for a comfortable stay are fine enough. But it is the breathtaking setting on the shore of Lake Victoria, the world’s second largest lake (after Lake Superior), that sets it apart. Dramatic tropical views, teeming lake wildlife, glorious flowers, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, delicious and plentiful food, comfortable accommodations and good service make this a splendid stop for a rest mid-safari. You will be glad for the break and glad you spent it at Speke Bay Lodge.

The lodge location is perfect, quiet and very friendly staff. Rooms are spacious and clean. Did I forget to mention that all the rooms have a view of the second largest lake in the world - Lake Victoria! It was a nice stop enroute to Serengeti National Park. A must visit again and again.

I first stayed here last August, 2023, and was almost blown away. I had known of the lodge for many years but had never stayed there out of pure ignorance of the delights within. Having corrected that omission I wrote a report, see above, and vowed to return one day. Well that day came round quicker than I had anticipated (lucky me) when I was enjoying another trip to the area. Needed a stop around Ndabakka Gate and with access to Musumo? No contest. We even juggled our schedule to match availability at the Lodge. Booked through our usual competent agent in Arusha and we were good to go. Know how first impressions can sometimes fade on a second visit? Forget them here. We drove up a little early for check in but that did not faze the owners or the friendly staff. OK we had to wait for teh bungalows to be made read but what is the use of a Bar if not to while away some time in delightful surroundings? Brief description of the bungalows is well recorded by others so suffice for me to say they are lovely Bandas of a cunning design and much more roomy than would appear from an external view. Large bedroom and superb bathroom shower room etc., Well kept and working perfectly. A lockable walk in cupboard for valuables protected by code pad. Even an upstairs mezzanine floor with a netted extra bed. I wish I was young again as I would love that for myself. Heck, throw the downstairs bed out and fit a comfy sofa or two and I could LIVE here! There is a workdesk with lighting and electricity sockets for those who have difficulty leaving work at home where it belongs. Outside is a sitting area with table and chairs wher eI suppose one could read a book. I tried but the bird life and friendly Dwarf Mongoose family meant little reading got done. Restaurant food were excellent at dinner, breakfasts al fresco outside on the terrace over looking the lake. Can it get better? It can if you are interested in birdlife. Not only around the lodge but around the huge parkland like grounds. The resident Eagle Owls called out their welcome and we actually found a very rare Flycatcher passing by. Nightjars roost and even two species of Bat can be found. But for me the stars are the Dwarf Mongooses. I could watch them for hours and probably did. Sit still and they will soon make themselves known to you. Just don't touch, they may bite (purely to see what you taste like!) So we had a delightful stay and can't wait to get back. We did no 'activity' as we were kept too occupied during our three night stay to think of seeking amusement off the premises.