The Highlands

Location: The Highlands is tucked away on the forested slopes of the Olmoti Volcano, on the remote northern edge of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is one of the most unusual and striking locations in northern Tanzania - well away from the crowds at the Crater rim, yet still within easy reach of the main highlights. From camp, you can explore both Olmoti and Empakaai craters on foot, enjoy truly off-the-beaten-track cultural experiences, and then venture down into the Ngorongoro Crater for a classic Big Five Safari. It's a peaceful, otherworldly, and utterly distinctive - ideal if you're looking for a different take on the Crater region.

Rooms: The Highlands offer eight geodesic dome tents, each with large curved windows, wood-burning stoves, and panoramic views of the surrounding highlands. Inspired by both traditional Maasai bomas and cutting-edge design, the domes feel futuristic and deeply rooted at the same time. Inside, you'll find king-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms with flush loos and hot showers, and cosy woolen blankets to ward off the mountain chill. There's even a family tent and a honeymoon dome with a private hot tub. It's a clever, comfortable and memorable set up - unlike anything else in Tanzania - and perfectly suited to its cool, elevated setting.

Amenities: The Highlands' main lodge is a beautifully designed space that blends polished timber, soft lighting, and big views with a laid-back, fireside atmosphere. Meals are served communally in the dining room, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced produce and hearty, warming dishes - ideal after a cool highland hike. There's a library, a well-stocked bar, and several quiet corners to relax with a drink and take in the scenery. Service is warm and attentive, with thoughtful extras like hot-water bottles at night and freshly brewed coffee brought to your dome each morning.

Activities: What sets The Highlands apart is its access to both well-known and off-grid experiences. You can of course do a full-day game drive into the Ngorongoro Crater - one of Africa's most iconic wildlife areas - but you can also hike the nearby Olmoti Crater with a local Maasai guides, or walk down into the stunning Empakaai Crater to see flamingos on the crater lake. Cultural visits to local villages are handled respectfully and offer genuine insight into Maasai life. If you're after variety and a slower, more meaningful connection to this extraordinary region, The Highlands offers just that.

Sustainability: The Highlands is part of the Asilia portfolio, a company known for its progressive, community-focused approach to sustainability. The camp is built using locally sourced materials and runs on solar power, with eco-conscious waste and water systems in place to minimise environmental impact. Asilia invests heavily in training and employs most of its staff from nearby communities, creating skilled, long-term jobs in remote areas. The company also supports local schools, healthcare projects, and conservation work across the region. Staying here helps ensure tourism in the Ngorongoro area directly supports both people and the planet - not just wildlife.