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Mari’s review of The Highlands, Ngorongoro Highlands region

This is a stylish and contemporary newish lodge with eight canvas-and-glass domed suites. It is a stunning looking spot but you need to be aware that it is far away from the Ngorongoro Crater.

(This could be both a good or a bad thing depending on your point of view). I was a little concerned about how long a drive it was to get to the highlands. The road on that side of the crater is not great and the last section to The Highlands was very bumpy. So not recommended if you don’t have much time to spend there!

However it is a great lodge with a stunning location. And it is very private and exclusive with an interesting range of activities.

What you can do at The Highlands

  • We did the Olmoti Crater Walk. This gives you the chance to see flora and fauna up close and to enjoy the beautiful Highlands area of the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. It also makes an excellent break from sitting in a safari vehicle! At the summit, you get a view of the Olmoti Crater and the seasonal Munge waterfall
  • Sit down for lunch with a renowned lion researcher who will offer fascinating insight into the relationships of the various lion prides in the area. (However you do need to check the availability of the researcher)
  • Excursion into the Empakai crater. This hiking adventure offers the opportunity to view the pink flamingos that congregate on the shores of the soda lake.
  • Visit the Ngorongoro Crater (but note the extra drive)
  • They focus heavily on the surrounding Maasai cultural experience & community visits which are very authentic.

Guest areas include a library, bar and comfortable sitting areas that surround an indoor fireplace. But the suite was very warm (with all that glass) during the afternoon and we were there in the cooler season!

The honeymoon tent (where I stayed) has a spa bath. But it’s a steep walk down so older people should request rooms closer to the main areas.

But The Highlands was one of my favourites – so remote and interesting with great views …

 

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