Magoroto Forest Estate — Hotel in Tanga Region

We had a pretty weird 4 nights stay at the Magoroto Forest Estate. We decided to travel there due to some really good comments we read online but the place turned out to be less charming than what we expected. The place is beautiful, no doubt, but it feels like it's been made to cater for city people who have never really been in nature and are doing these things for the first time. The pricing is also pretty crazy especially if you travel as a couple. The per person price is almost the same even if you share a cabin/cottage/tent which doesn't make any sense. To start with the prices are very high. The cottages by the lake are beautiful but we had a bit of a bad luck as in the first cottage we had a massive ant infestation and in the second one we had rats that ate some of our belongings. The worst thing was that the staff knew about the rats before moving us into the cottage which was really bad. The cottages are also extremely loud when it rains or things fall from the trees as the flat roof is metal. Activity wise there is not much more than hiking or using the small boats to float on the lake. The property is really nice but we had a bit of a problem with our nature guide who kept throwing trash into the nature (even after we told him not to do so). Food was ok but the breakfast was especially poor until the last day when the staff finally understood that we had been asking for vegetarian options all along. In the end we had a big discussion with the lady at the reception who eventually adjusted the price due to the fact that the rats had eaten some of our belongings. I think this place is a way overpriced...

Magoroto Forest estate is without a doubt one of the most magical places in Tanzania. Located in the East side of the usambara mountains, it is only a 5-6 hour drive from Dar es Salaam. You can also take a bus to Muheza, Tanga and then a motorbike all the way up or call the hosts for a pick up. The place itself is simply incredible. From the fresh air to the forest (almost feel like you are in the amazon jungle) to the views during the hikes down to the private lake, the beauty of this place is unparalleled. It is a perfect spot whether you are going for a solo trip, with a partner or better yet, a group of friends to escape the busy city life. You have both camping and lodging options and all meals are provided for. You also have the option to cook for yourself or come with your own chef if you so wish. I highly recommend you call ahead and let them know it you have any dietry requirements. The best part about this place has to be the hosts and staff. They will charm you and keep you coming back for more just as I have been for the past 7 trips. Pro tip: try out the wild fruits :) we discovered some that no one knew of their names and we called them wild mangoes....

Magoroto Forest is one place surrounded by nature and only nature with many different activities available. There is this unique natural ambiance, the staff are friendly and helpful and the services are good. Amazing food. They can also cater to your specific dietary requirements. The hiking at different trails is one great adventure in itself, the view point has mesmerizing view. The sunset point is very relaxing place to be while you enjoy the sundown. Nice waterfalls. The lake activities like boating, fishing, swimming, etc.. are so relaxing and fun. Cycling is fun too. There is also a fully equipped bar to enjoy your booze while you relax around a campfire late in the evening after dinner. They have a few selections of card and board games too. There are 2 options of accommodation here, either one does camping around the lake and surrounded by nature or one can stay in the available room (rooms availability is very limited) soon there will be more. Some wooden chalets also coming up as well sooner or later. And more activities will be added as well.. Overall it was a great experience being here. A place to unwind oneself. Will visit...