The Highlands

Set on the edge of the mountain forest hugging the Olmoti volcano to the north of Ngorongoro Crater, The Highlands strikes a perfect balance between a true wilderness experience and a high-style, contemporary escape. Experience the highlands of the wild Ngorongoro Conservation Area surrounding the camp, home to leopard, buffalo and elephant. A Ngorongoro Crater safari is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Follow ancient Maasai trails to the summit of the Olmoti crater and visit local communities to catch a glimpse into the traditional Maasai way of life that has defined this corner of East Africa for centuries. The famous Ngorongoro Crater is easily accessible from camp, while the setting ensures maximum privacy, a rich adventure and a range of activities not possible elsewhere in Ngorongoro.

The Highlands redefines the Ngorongoro experience, raising the bar for low-impact yet high-style camps. Carefully positioned for maximum privacy high on the slopes of the Olmoti Crater, our guests enjoy sweeping views all the way to the Serengeti. The inspiration for the eight canvas geodesic domed suites draws from the traditional Maasai bomas that dot the landscape. Warm, intimate and contemporary, this is quite simply the perfect place from which to discover the wild and pristine Crater Highlands. At the heart of the camp is an authentic indoor fireplace designed to emulate the traditional East African campfire experience. Delve into the library or enjoy a drink from our whisky dome and unwind in comfort and style at the end of each rewarding day.

Guest Tent - 2 people (6 ROOMS)

The Highlands has six large, luxury guest tents with fantastic views stretching to the Gola Mountains. The domes have the option of being twins or doubles with several having a mezzanine available for a third bed. The tents all feature king-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms with separate flush toilet and double-headed plumbed shower. Each tent also has a wood burning fireplace and plenty of cosy blankets and rugs for warmth in the colder months.

Family Tent - 4 people

The Highlands features one family tent specifically designed to accommodate two adults and two children. The main dome is a standard double with a covered walkway leading to a smaller dome with twin beds and en-suite shower room for the children.




 

Honeymoon Tent - 2 people

The Honeymoon dome emphasizes privacy, rest, and relaxation, with a king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom with a double headed shower, as well as wood burning fire place for warmth in the colder months. In addition, there is a seating area, large elevated deck, and an outdoor hot tub which looks out over the beautiful landscape of Ngorongoro.

Ngorongoro Crater Decent

Enjoy a game drive in one of the most game-rich areas in the world, the Ngorongoro Crater. Explore the vast 300km2 floor with an experienced guide and stop for lunch in a shady spot under the trees, maximizing your time in this unforgettable landscape. Our seven-seater closed vehicles are fitted with power points so you’re able to charge your devices, as well as a fridge to keep your drinks deliciously frosty.


 

Olmoti climb

The Olmoti climb follows an ancient Maasai cattle trail through mountain forest, grasslands and rocky outcrops. Make the most of outstanding birding opportunities and the chance to see a vast array of butterfly species. At the top, you are rewarded with a magnificent view of the crater below.


 

Empakaai descent

Descend into the Empakaai crater accompanied by an NCA ranger and walk to the sparkling soda lake on the crater floor, famous for the pink flamingo that congregate on its shores. Because of the camp’s proximity to Empakaai, it is the only property that gives you the opportunity to make this a half-day excursion.


 

Community & cultural visits

Spend the afternoon with the local Maasai in one of the neighbouring villages to learn about the traditional way of life that has defined this corner of Africa for centuries. School visits may be possible depending on the time of year.


 

At The Highlands we use state-of-the-art technology to minimize their ecological footprint. This includes a full solar plant and rainwater collection off tents. In addition, our supply runs are minimized to once a month to reduce carbon emissions, and any unavoidable carbon emissions are offset through Carbon Tanzania. Asilia is the second-largest contributor to this scheme in the country.
 

For a chance to immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural heritage, visit a Maasai homestead, enjoy local hospitality and be entertained by traditional dancers. Test your herding skills alongside Maasai herdsmen as you join them to bring the cattle into the boma. As many staff members as possible are hired from the local community. Participating in community visits and visiting local markets are a great way to provide direct benefits to local villagers.
 

Amos Buhuru, a room attendant at The Highlands, used to be a poacher. His story is testament to the turnaround effect that tourism has on Africa’s people. Ask him to tell you about his life before and how it is now – you’ll find living proof of the good that you do by coming here.

For more information on The Highlands, click HERE

For a Virtual Tour of The Highlands, click HERE