The Highlands

Set high on the forested slopes of the Olmoti volcano, The Highlands is a secluded luxury camp offering a bold and contemporary take on the traditional safari experience. With sweeping views across the highlands and deep into the Serengeti plains, this remarkable camp combines modern design, warm hospitality, and a sense of total immersion in the wild. It redefines what it means to explore the Ngorongoro Conservation Area—one of East Africa’s most celebrated natural wonders.

Far from the main tourist circuit, The Highlands is designed for those seeking both serenity and adventure. Its elevated location offers privacy, tranquility, and a front-row seat to some of Tanzania’s most striking landscapes, while still being close enough to the Ngorongoro Crater floor for early morning game drives.

Architectural Elegance in the Wilderness

One of the first things guests notice at The Highlands is the futuristic design of its suites. Inspired by traditional Maasai bomas and crafted from perspex and canvas, the eight domed structures blend seamlessly into the surrounding forest. Each suite is thoughtfully placed to ensure uninterrupted views and complete privacy.

Inside, the atmosphere is cozy and luxurious. Guests enjoy king-sized beds, floor-to-ceiling bay windows that frame the landscape like a living painting, and en-suite bathrooms that offer modern comforts in the heart of nature. For those chilly highland evenings, wood-burning stoves provide warmth and ambiance, making the rooms feel like intimate sanctuaries.

A Romantic Escape: The Honeymoon Suite

For couples or families seeking an extra-special stay, The Highlands offers a secluded honeymoon suite. Tucked away from the main camp, this suite features a large elevated deck that’s ideal for stargazing, relaxing with a glass of wine, or soaking in the outdoor hot tub under the African sky.

Although it’s called the honeymoon suite, it can accommodate up to two adults and two children, making it perfect for families who want added space and exclusivity. The views from this suite are some of the most spectacular in the camp, stretching endlessly across the highland wilderness.

Sunrise at the Ngorongoro Crater

Despite its secluded location, The Highlands is ideally positioned for early access to the Ngorongoro Crater floor—one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Guests can leave the camp before dawn and descend into the crater just in time to witness the golden light of sunrise touch the misty crater floor.

This early access not only provides the opportunity for exceptional photography but also the best chance to see a wide variety of wildlife before the mid-morning crowds arrive. From lions and leopards to elephants, rhinos, and flamingos, the crater is a haven for game viewing.

Adventure Beyond the Crater

What truly sets The Highlands apart is its wide array of activities not typically available elsewhere in the Ngorongoro region. Here, guests are encouraged to explore the surrounding highlands on foot, connecting with the landscape in a more intimate and authentic way.

Nature walks and guided hikes are a highlight of any stay. One popular option is the trek to the rim of the Olmoti Crater, where panoramic views and peaceful surroundings await. The Empakaai Crater hike is another favorite, featuring a descent through lush forest to a soda lake often visited by flamingos.

These walks offer the chance to learn about the geology, flora, and fauna of the region, all while accompanied by experienced local guides who share insights into the ecosystem and culture of the area.

An Encounter with Maasai Culture

The Highlands is located on land owned and stewarded by the Maasai people, and the camp has established close relationships with the surrounding communities. Guests have the unique opportunity to visit nearby Maasai villages, where they can learn about traditional customs, daily routines, and the deep cultural heritage that continues to shape life in this part of Tanzania.

These cultural visits are respectful and immersive. They offer an honest look into the lives of the Maasai, who have lived in harmony with the land and wildlife for generations. Whether it’s joining a traditional dance, watching livestock being herded, or learning how homes are built from mud and sticks, this cultural exchange leaves a lasting impression.

Wildlife on Your Doorstep

Even without venturing far, The Highlands offers exciting wildlife encounters. The camp’s remote setting means it often receives unexpected visitors—zebra, buffalo, porcupine, and even elephants have been spotted wandering nearby. At night, the sounds of the forest come alive, reminding guests they are in the heart of the wild.

For those who love to sit quietly and observe, the camp is a dream come true. Whether from your private deck or the main lounge, it’s not uncommon to spot wildlife against a backdrop of rolling hills and acacia-dotted plains.

Sustainable Luxury with a Purpose

The Highlands is more than just a luxury escape—it’s a model of sustainability and community partnership. Built with a minimal ecological footprint, the camp uses solar energy, sources food locally where possible, and supports conservation and education initiatives in the area.

Its partnership with the local Maasai community ensures that a portion of every stay directly benefits the people who call this land home. Employment opportunities, education support, and wildlife protection are all part of The Highlands‘ ongoing commitment to responsible tourism.

A Camp Like No Other

With its striking design, remote location, rich cultural experiences, and adventurous spirit, The Highlands is unlike any other camp in the Ngorongoro region. It invites guests to slow down, connect deeply with nature and culture, and experience one of Africa’s great landscapes in a way that’s personal, meaningful, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the crater, hiking ancient volcanic paths, or sharing stories by the fire, The Highlands offers moments of magic and memories that will last a lifetime.