Spotlight on Highlands Lodge, Ngorongoro Crater - Tanzania
Nestled on the verdant slopes of Olmoti Volcano, The Highlands redefines luxury and exploration in Tanzania's Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This award-winning camp, a harmonious blend of contemporary style and comfort, is strategically located to offer a unique Ngorongoro Crater experience. With its eight distinctive domed suites, crafted from canvas and glass, the hotel stands on the edge of a dense forest, providing an intimate connection with nature. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, envelopes the hotel in its awe-inspiring beauty and wilderness. The design of The Highlands is a modern nod to traditional Maasai bomas, with its canvas and perspex dome tents offering an immersive safari experience. At the heart of this exceptional retreat is a cozy library complete with an indoor fireplace, an innovative take on the classic safari campfire. Here, guests gather to recount their day's adventures and wildlife encounters, sharing stories over pre-dinner drinks in a warm, communal setting. The Highlands promises not just a stay, but a journey into the heart of Tanzania's wild and unspoiled landscapes.
The Highlands Lodge - Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania. Image by Asilia Africa
Accommodation & Amenities: A Blend of Wilderness and Comfort at The Highlands
At The Highlands, guests find a seamless blend of remote wilderness and luxurious amenities. The camp, though feeling a world away, is conveniently situated within reach of the Ngorongoro Crater. Here, day-long game drives offer sightings of lions, elephants, and giraffes, complemented by tranquil picnic breaks under shady trees. The adventures continue with hikes to the summit of Olmoti for breathtaking vistas, and half-day excursions to Empakaai Crater, where thousands of pink flamingos create a stunning spectacle.
The local Maasai community plays a significant role in enriching guests' experiences. Engaging interactions allow visitors to delve into the Maasai culture and even partake in escorting cattle back to their bomas at day's end.
As dusk falls, the camp transforms into a cozy haven. Guests gather around a crackling fire, sipping wine or whiskey, before indulging in a sumptuous three-course dinner. The accommodation comprises eight domed suites, each a fusion of canvas and glass, nestled amidst lush vegetation and offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The suites cater to all needs, featuring a family tent with ample space for children and a special honeymoon tent equipped with a hot tub for romantic escapes.
Every suite is designed to maximize comfort and intimacy with nature. King-sized beds face floor-to-ceiling windows, leading to decks that curve elegantly around each tent. The en suite bathrooms are fitted with hot running water, showers, and flushing toilets, ensuring modern conveniences in the heart of the wilderness. To enhance the cozy atmosphere, each suite includes a wood-burning stove, creating a warm and inviting space during the cooler nights. Additional amenities include lockable in-room boxes, complimentary laundry service, solar and generator power, ensuring that every stay at The Highlands is as comfortable as it is unforgettable.
The rooms at The Highlands, Ngorongoro Crater - Image by Asilia Africa
Location: Embracing the Wild Heart of Ngorongoro at The Highlands
Perched on the edge of a lush forest encircling Olmoti Volcano, The Highlands commands a unique position in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its diverse and stunning landscapes. This conservation area is an amalgamation of mountainous forests, expansive grassy plains, and serene swampy marshlands, creating a canvas of natural beauty.
The Highlands holds the distinction of being the highest property in the region, offering guests unparalleled, panoramic views that are nothing short of sublime. The camp's unique location allows for a rare opportunity to witness both the sunrise and sunset, painting the sky with vibrant hues that reflect the pristine wilderness.
Just 40 km to the south lies the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest inactive, intact, and unflooded caldera. This natural marvel, formed 2 to 3 million years ago due to a volcanic explosion and subsequent collapse, now serves as one of Africa's premier wildlife viewing destinations. The crater is renowned for housing the 'Big 5' and an extraordinary concentration of predators, offering a wildlife spectacle unmatched elsewhere.
The Highlands' proximity to the northern flank of Olmoti Volcano adds to its allure. Here, guests may encounter an array of wildlife, including buffalo, zebras, hartebeests, bushbucks, occasional leopards, and elephants during certain times of the year. The area is also a haven for nocturnal animals such as hyenas and porcupines, adding a thrilling dimension to the wildlife experience.
Not far from the camp is Empakaai Crater, famed for its soda lake – a highly alkaline body of water. This lake attracts thousands of flamingos, creating a spectacular sight as these vibrant birds gather along its shores. The location of The Highlands, amidst this rich tapestry of ecological and geological wonders, offers an immersive experience in one of the most extraordinary landscapes on the planet.
Walking from The Highlands lodge. Photo by Asilia Africa
A Typical Day on Safari at The Highlands: Immersive Wilderness Experiences
A day at The Highlands is a harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation, meticulously designed to coincide with the rhythms of the wild. The safari excursions, whether game drives or walks, are strategically scheduled for the early morning or late afternoon. This timing capitalizes on cooler temperatures and the periods when wildlife is most active, ensuring an enriching safari experience.
Each day begins with an invigorating early-morning wake-up call, accompanied by a warming cup of tea or coffee. This is followed by a hearty breakfast at the camp, fueling you for the day's adventures. Guests have the option to embark on their game drive or walk immediately after breakfast or take a picnic to enjoy amidst the wilderness. For those who have opted for a private vehicle, the day's schedule can be personalized in consultation with their guide.
By mid-morning, after a morning filled with wildlife sightings and natural beauty, guests return to the camp. This period allows for some leisure time to relax, freshen up, and enjoy a delightful lunch. The camp's peaceful environment, with options to visit the library or simply unwind with a book, provides a perfect backdrop for a midday siesta.
As the afternoon unfolds, guests are treated to tea before setting out on another safari adventure. This afternoon excursion often includes the magical experience of sundowners in the bush, a cherished safari tradition. As dusk settles, guests return to the camp, where the day culminates with drinks by the crackling campfire and a sumptuous dinner in the company of fellow adventurers. Each day at The Highlands is a seamless journey from dawn to dusk, filled with the wonders of the African bush and the comforts of a luxury camp.
Experiences at The Highlands: Diverse Adventures and Cultural Immersion
At The Highlands, guests are invited to partake in a variety of experiences, each offering a unique window into the rich tapestry of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the local Maasai culture.
Game Drives
Embark on an exploration of the vast 300 km² Ngorongoro Crater with our skilled guides. The game drives are enhanced by the comfort of our seven-seater closed vehicles, complete with power points and fridges, ensuring your devices remain charged and your refreshments cool. A picnic lunch under a shady tree is part of the experience, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the crater.
Olmoti Crater Climb
Directly from the camp, guests can follow an ancient Maasai cattle trail that winds through mountain forests and grasslands, leading to the Olmoti Crater. This hike is a nature lover's delight, offering opportunities to spot diverse birds and butterflies. The journey culminates in a stunning view from the top, overlooking the crater.
Empakaai Crater Climb
Unique to The Highlands is the half-day excursion to Empakaai Crater. Accompanied by an NCA ranger, descend into the crater and hike to its famed soda lake, a gathering spot for pink flamingos that create a mesmerizing, pink-hued spectacle on its shores.
Community and Cultural Visits
Spend an enriching afternoon with the Maasai in a neighboring village. These visits offer insights into their traditional way of life, including opportunities to support local traders at a market or accompany herders as they return their cattle to the boma. Depending on the season, there might also be chances to visit a local school.
Asilia Spa
After a long day in the bush or a lengthy flight, unwind with a relaxing massage at the Asilia Spa. For added convenience and privacy, in-suite treatments are also available upon request.
Family Safaris
Families with children over 5 years are warmly welcomed, with the possibility of exceptions based on camp occupancy. Although there are no specific programs for children, family experiences are richly rewarding. To ensure a comfortable stay, families are encouraged to inquire about hiring a private vehicle. Children under 12 are required to share a tent with an adult, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the stay.
At The Highlands, each experience is carefully crafted to offer guests an authentic, memorable, and deeply engaging encounter with the wonders of Tanzania's wilderness and its cultural heritage.
On Gamedrive with The Highlands. Photo by Asilia Africa
When to Go: Choosing the Ideal Time for Your Safari at The Highlands
January - March
Best for Bird Watching and Avoiding Crowds
Weather: A gap in rains with some showers. The average high is 25°C (77°F), and average lows are around 13°C (55°F).
Experience: Enjoy the presence of migratory birds in the NCA. Fewer tourists compared to mid-year, offering a more secluded experience.
Temperature Range: Low - 14°C (57°F) / High - 23°C (73°F)
April - June
Ideal for Wildflowers and Low Season Rates
Weather: The long rains occur, but it doesn't rain all day. May is wet but offers wildflowers and fewer crowds. The dry season starts in June.
Experience: Great wildlife spotting despite the rains. Cooler temperatures, especially around the crater rim.
Temperature Range: Low - 14°C (57°F) / High - 23°C (73°F in April, 21°C/70°F in May and June)
Rainfall in April and May: Approximately 140mm (5.5 inches)
July - September
Peak Travel for Wildlife and Clear Skies
Weather: Dry, sunny, and clear, yet the coolest time of the year. Nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing around the crater rim.
Experience: Optimal for wildlife viewing. The landscape is teeming with activity, though this period also sees the most tourists.
Temperature Range: Low - 11°C (52°F) / High - 21°C (70°F in July, 24°C/75°F in September)
Rainfall: Around 23mm (0.9 inches)
October - December
Great for Bird Migration and Lesser Crowds
Weather: The short rains start, mostly in December. The weather is pleasant with warmer temperatures.
Experience: Migratory birds begin to arrive in November, offering a spectacular bird-watching opportunity.
Temperature Range: Low - 14°C (57°F) / High - 24°C (75°F)
Rainfall: Approximately 85mm (3.3 inches)
Each season at The Highlands offers a unique safari experience. May stands out as an exceptional time to visit, balancing moderate tourist presence with vibrant natural phenomena. The Ngorongoro Crater, despite its proximity, features a significantly different climate due to its higher altitude, so visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures and more rain, particularly around the crater rim. Packing layers is advisable year-round to accommodate the diverse climate conditions experienced within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
The Highlands Lodge at night. Photo by Asilia Africa
Ngorongoro Wildlife: A Diverse Haven for Flora and Fauna
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a wildlife enthusiast's paradise, boasting over 25,000 large animals and an impressive array of bird species. This rich biodiversity makes it one of the most coveted destinations for wildlife viewing.
The Ngorongoro Crater
Abundant Wildlife: The crater is a natural sanctuary for wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelle.
Spectacular Views: From the crater rim, witness the awe-inspiring sight of herds traversing the base in long, winding columns.
Unique Sightings: Look out for the elusive black rhinos amidst the bushes and the old bull elephants with their long, majestic tusks near the Gorigor Swamp.
Predators in the Wild: The Lerai forest is a known habitat for leopards, while prides of lions roam the vast plains.
The Flanks of Olmoti Volcano
Varied Fauna: The northern side of Olmoti volcano is home to species such as buffalo, zebra, and hyena, adding to the diversity of wildlife encounters.
Empakaai Crater
Birdwatchers' Delight: A hike to the Empakaai Crater reveals thousands of pink flamingos adorning the edges of the soda lake, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
This extraordinary array of wildlife, coupled with the diverse landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, from the crater floor to the volcanic slopes, offers a unique and unforgettable safari experience. Whether you're observing the large mammals on the crater floor or the vibrant birdlife at Empakaai, Ngorongoro promises a rich tapestry of nature at its most majestic.