Leaders Lodge

We planned for one night at leaders lodge and ended up staying three. Rooms go for 30,000-50,000 tsh. We chose the 30,000 tsh room, and it was just right for the price. There was hot water and a breakfast buffet with coffee, tea, spaghetti, boiled potatoes, pancakes, and fresh fruit. The owner and staff were friendly and very helpful, and the location worked well. I’d come back.

The compound is peaceful and a little outside the city, and I felt completely safe leaving my things in the room while I went on day trips. For 30k a night, the basic room had all I needed: a toilet, hot shower, mosquito net, towel, soap, and good security. The WiFi was the best I’ve used in Tanzania. I’d been a bit wary of the low price and good reviews, but it really is good value. I did wish the dinner arrangements were clearer. I wanted to eat there, but the staff seemed hesitant, as if they’d need to go shopping first. That wouldn’t have bothered me if dinner hadn’t been advertised as available.

The hotel felt secure, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The bedding was clean and smelled of fabric softener, which was a nice touch. The electrics worked in both rooms I used, before and after my Gombe trip, and the WiFi was reliable. I checked in to use the place as a base for my Gombe Stream expedition. The rooms are basic but good value, with breakfast and dinner included. Meals were local dishes, usually rice, cassava, or potatoes with vegetables or meat in sauce.

You get what you’d want from a stay here, including good WiFi and laundry service. The rooms have TVs, and the included breakfast was nice. Coffee and tea are available all day, and beer in the evening was priced well enough. Room rates run from 20,000 for the cheapest to 50,000 for the most expensive. I’d stay again.