Explore below ↓Our take
The Highlands offers a distinctive base on the forested slopes of Olmoti in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, combining crater wildlife with highland exploration. Olmoti’s wooded slopes, rolling hills and volcanic scenery distinguish the location from the grassy plains farther north. The domes frame this highland landscape, while excursions can reach the wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater. Its appeal is therefore wider than a convenient overnight stop: the surrounding terrain, architecture and guided walks each contribute to the stay.
Its dome architecture and elevated setting create a strong sense of place. A lounge, bar and spa provide comfortable spaces after walks and crater excursions.
The communal dome lounge and bar offer a warm base in the cool highlands, and a spa and sauna create another way to spend an afternoon. The elevated, forested location gives this camp a different atmosphere from the open Serengeti: the surrounding hills and walking opportunities are a significant part of the appeal.
Gallery
A closer look at the accommodation and setting.
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Accommodation
The domes combine canvas and transparent panels to frame the landscape. Double and twin arrangements are available, and bathrooms have indoor showers and double vanities. The wood-burning stove is a practical comfort at altitude. For families, we would check the dedicated family accommodation and available additional sleeping arrangements rather than select rooms purely by their appearance.
Food & drink
Meals draw on fresh ingredients from the Karatu area and can be enjoyed with views of the surrounding forest.
Fresh produce from the Karatu region is central to the cooking. Communal dinners encourage conversation, while individual tables can be requested. Breakfast on the deck offers highland views when weather permits, and a picnic can be prepared for a crater excursion or longer outing.
What to do
Crater game drives and guided walks at Olmoti and Empakaai reveal contrasting highland landscapes. Maasai community visits can be arranged with local hosts. At camp, the spa and sauna provide time to unwind; the outdoor hot tub belongs to the honeymoon category rather than every dome. Hiking requires appropriate fitness, with a minimum age of twelve and conditions checked for the chosen route.
Planning your stay
Allow two or three nights rather than using The Highlands simply as a stop before the Serengeti. Give one full day to the Ngorongoro Crater and another to a suitable highland walk or a slower day at camp. This combination works especially well when you want the northern circuit to include more than vehicle safaris.
The right fit
Active couples and families who enjoy unusual architecture, cool highland scenery and walking. For honeymooners, we would compare the dedicated honeymoon dome with other room options rather than assume every suite has the same facilities.
The Highlands is on Olmoti’s slopes, not directly on the Ngorongoro Crater rim. Crater visits require a drive, and nights can feel cold at altitude. Walking suitability depends on age, fitness and conditions. Its location is most rewarding when you have time for the surrounding highlands.
Useful to know
No. The camp is on the slopes of Olmoti within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It offers a highland setting, with crater game drives arranged as excursions rather than immediate access from the lodge.
The eight domed suites and the surrounding volcanic highlands distinguish it. We recommend it when walks and scenery matter alongside a crater game drive, particularly with two or three nights available.
The design, quieter setting and dedicated honeymoon suite make it worth considering. The honeymoon suite has an outdoor hot tub; we check the room category and availability before including that feature in your plans.
Yes, with a dedicated family option. We confirm the room arrangement and activities for your children’s ages. Hiking has a higher age threshold than staying at camp, so each outing needs separate consideration.
Warm layers for mornings and evenings are useful at this elevation. For planned walks, bring comfortable footwear with grip and clothing suited to changing weather; we provide a packing guide for the complete itinerary.
Tailor-made Tanzania
We will help you compare the setting, rooms and activities with the alternatives for your dates.
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