Where is The Highlands and how do I get there?

On the slopes of Olmoti volcano in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Guests typically arrive by light aircraft to a regional airstrip followed by a scenic road transfer; from camp it’s roughly 40 minutes to the crater rim for early entries.

What is the accommodation like?

Eight contemporary geodesic domes—including a family dome—with wood-burning stoves, in-room Wi-Fi and sweeping views. Evenings centre on cosy firelight, a warm sauna and generous, alfresco dinners.

What activities are offered?

Early crater game drives, exclusive Olmoti nature walks and a rare half-day Empakaai descent (for guests aged 12+). Enjoy respectful Maasai community visits, excellent birding, stargazing and optional in-room massages.

How family-friendly is The Highlands?

Very—there’s a family dome and flexible pacing. Note that Olmoti and Empakaai hikes are typically for ages 12+; we plan alternative activities for younger children.

Is this good for photographers?

Yes—high-altitude clarity, early crater entries and dramatic caldera scenery suit landscape and wildlife work. Private vehicles can be arranged for prime light and patient positioning.

The Highlands

Set high on the slopes of Olmoti volcano, The Highlands feels private and adventurous yet comfortable. Eight geodesic domes, including a family dome, come with in-room Wi-Fi, wood-burning stoves, and sweeping views of the Serengeti. Days blend crater game drives with exclusive Olmoti nature walks or a rare half-day Empakaai descent. Evenings bring a warm sauna, cosy firelight, and generous, alfresco dinners. It is Ngorongoro’s highest-altitude camp, far from crowds and close to big-sky beauty.

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Aerial view of The Highlands camp with geodesic domes set above Ngorongoro Crater forest, Tanzania

Quick facts
8 domes, 1 family
High-altitude camp
Crater game drives
Olmoti walks
Empakaai hikes

Panoramic window of The Highlands dome suite looking towards Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Star-filled night sky above The Highlands geodesic dome suite in Ngorongoro

Highlights & Activities.

Crater game drives start early for golden light, while exclusive Olmoti nature walks and a rare half-day Empakaai descent add adventure for guests twelve and older. Join respectful Maasai community visits, then unwind with the sauna or a soothing massage. Expect picnic breakfasts and lunches, sundowners, and relaxed alfresco dinners, with private tables on request. Birding is excellent, stargazing is brilliant at altitude, and photographers can arrange flexible pacing with a private vehicle. Full-day excursions are easy from camp, and guides tailor each day to your interests, keeping things unhurried, warm, and personal.

Safari vehicle near the Ngorongoro descent road with iconic flat-topped acacia tree

Region information.

The Ngorongoro highlands mix montane forest, open tussock, and volcanic peaks, with views across the Bulbul Depression to Oldoinyo Lengai. From camp it is about forty minutes to the Ngorongoro Crater rim, then down to a 300 km² floor rich in predators, elephants, and plains game. Nearby, the Empakaai caldera holds a flamingo-lined lake, and Olmoti offers gentle rim walks with fine birding. This living pastoral landscape supports Maasai communities, and regulations manage access to keep it wild. Distances are big, so full-day outings are common, with cool air and big skies year-round.