The Highlands Camp at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, is one of the most spectacular lodges in the area on the edge of the mountain forest that hugs the Olmoti Volcano. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is known for its archaeological and geological significance, its rich wildlife and beautiful scenery. The area includes the famous crater, the famous Olduvai Gorge and the vast plains, forests and mountains that extend to the Serengeti. This 8,000 km2 protected area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the crater has been voted one of the seven natural wonders of Africa.
Climb to the top of the Olmoti crater directly from the camp, visit local communities to catch a glimpse of the traditional Maasai lifestyle, or just explore the surroundings, home to the leopard, buffalo and elephant.
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Ecorating: 3.5
This product meets our requirements for Ecorating, a product that is good for humans and the environment.
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This product meets our requirements for Ecorating, a product that is good for humans and the environment.
Sample Itinerary
With its exclusive location on the Olmoti volcano, The Highlands offers a range of activities that is simply unheard of in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is the only camp to consider if you wish to do so much more than the classic Ngorongoro descent.
Olmoti climb
Starting directly from camp, 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.
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, maximising your time in this unforgettable landscape. Our seven-seater closed vehicles are fitted with power points so you can recharge your devices, as well as a fridge to keep your drinks deliciously frosty.
Experience the highlands of the wild Ngorongoro Conservation Area surrounding the camp, home to leopard, buffalo and elephant.
In the Highlands you may also see Rhinos.
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.
There are eight cosy eco-domes on the slopes of the volcano, each have one side of clear plastic, so that you can lie in bed and stargaze or wake up in the rays of the early morning sun. This is a modern interpretation of the safari experience as you can imagine.
If you get cold a night, you could just ask your masai guide to lit up the wood burning stove.
Trip details
Ecorating: 3.5
Season: All year
Airport: Arusha (ARK)
Included: Full board accommodation, all house drinks (except champagne), scheduled game drives, Olmoti Crater hike, Empakaai Crater hike, Maasai cultural visit, hot lunch on the Ngorongoro Crater floor (subject to availability), transfers to/from Manyara Airstrip, laundry service private transfers, domestic flights
Not included: Champagne, cellar wines, premium brand spirits, cocktails & mocktails, activities & excursions not mentioned in the “included” section, travel insurances, visa.
Good to know about Tanzania:
Travel ethics: Tanzania is often suffering from shortage of water due to draughts so pleaes use it sparingly. Masais are proud people, always ask before photographing. Bring small notes in local currency to trade local crafts in the villages. Shake hands with those you meet – a courtesy code here.
Visa: Swedish travelers need a visa to visit Tanzania and Zanzibar. This can be arranged at the airport upon arrival at a charge of USD 50, or in advance via Tanzania’s Embassy in Sweden, Stockholm.
Time zone: GMT + 3
Vaccinations: Please consult your General Practitioner on what vaccinations you might need.
Packing: Sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, sun hat, sun cream and a small flashlight.
Local currency: Tanzanian Shilling
Weather: Weather Tanzania
Mobile network and email: Email and internet access are available but connection may be weak in the wild.
Water: Water is provided at the camp/lodge.
Security: Tanzania and Zanzibar are considered a safe place for tourists.
More information on: Travel Advice
Ecorating: 3.5
This product meets our requirements for Ecorating, a product that is good for humans and the environment.
Does my trip make a difference?
Read more
This product meets our requirements for Ecorating, a product that is good for humans and the environment.
These camps and lodges are run by an organization that is one of the pioneers in the industry. Here we are lucky enough to welcome guests to some of the most special places on earth. Places of stunning nature abounding wildlife and full of cultural significance. These areas are of exceptional value for all of us living on this planet, now and in the future. With our presence and through your visit you can make a lasting positive impact on nature and local businesses alike. By generating revenue, we increase opportunities for people to prosper and support efforts that preserve and ultimately expand untouched habitats. Our goal is to make a real difference with everything we work with.
We are proud to take a groundbreaking approach: setting up camps and lodges in areas where tourism has a small footprint and making long-term commitments for these sites to flourish. In the end, sustainable tourism can be transformed into new areas, transforming them into viable and lasting conservation-based economies, with everlasting revenues for both its people and wildlife protection.
Whether we already have a presence or explore opportunities to enter new countries, the key to making an impact is to know where the biggest challenges lie. It starts by judging the control and management set-up, identifying cavities, and establishing what the best approach is to address the problems encountered.
We take a common strategy, working with local communities, government agencies, NGOs and other companies to achieve the best possible long-term results for the areas we committed ourselves to. These partnerships allow us to identify where we can make the biggest contribution and impact.
