Architecture & Cutting-Edge Eco-Design

The architecture of The Highlands Camp draws creative inspiration from traditional Maasai bomas, reimagined into transparent, geodesic spherical domes constructed with canvas, glass, and wood.

The design creates a striking contrast between modern geometric structures and the wild, high-altitude montane forest. Large curved glass bays face out over the mountain slopes, allowing guests to absorb expansive wilderness views directly from their bedside while remaining sheltered from cool mountain breezes.

Accommodations & Dome Suite Configurations

The Highlands Camp offers 8 intimate geodesic dome suites, carefully spaced along wooden walkways into the hillside to guarantee complete privacy and undisturbed natural views.

Suite Categories

• Standard Geodesic Domes: Spacious, high-ceilinged dome suites furnished with king-size four-poster beds, organic timber accents, soft woolen throw blankets, and plush seating arranged in front of a floor-to-ceiling glass bay.

• Honeymoon Dome Suite: Features an expanded layout with a private outdoor hot tub on an elevated wooden deck overlooking the forest canopy and mountain range.

• Family Dome Suite: A larger two-bedroom configuration connected by an enclosed passageway, providing comfortable space for parents and children with private en-suite amenities.

In-Dome Amenities

• Floor-to-ceiling curved glass bay window looking out across the Olmoti slopes

• In-dome bio-ethanol stove (fireplace) lit every evening for warmth

• En-suite bathroom with hot running water, vanity sink, and flush toilet

• Private outdoor timber deck equipped with safari chairs

• Electronic safe, writing desk, tea/coffee service, and eco-friendly toiletries

Dining, Facilities & Guest Services

The Highlands balances remote wilderness seclusion with refined culinary and lodge services across central communal domes.

On-Site Activities & Exclusive Excursions

Because of its unique northern position on Olmoti Volcano, The Highlands offers activities unavailable at standard rim lodges:

• Olmoti Volcano Waterfall Hike: Guided trekking starting directly from camp up to the rim of Olmoti Crater, passing through high-altitude grasslands to a waterfall lookout point.

• Empakaai Crater Day Trek: Guided descent into the dramatic Empakaai Crater to walk along the shores of its emerald soda lake, home to thousands of flamingos.

• Ngorongoro Crater Game Drives: Full-day game drives into the Ngorongoro Crater floor for Big Five tracking, descending via the nearby Lemala access gate.

• Authentic Maasai Cultural Encounters: Private visits to local, non-touristic Maasai villages (bomas) near Nainokanoka to learn about traditional cattle pastoralism and highland life.

Strategic Location & Transit Links

Situated on the northern slopes of Olmoti Volcano within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area:

• Lemala Crater Descent Gate: ~45 minutes drive

• Empakaai Crater: ~30 to 40 minutes drive

• Lake Manyara Airstrip (LMY): ~1.5 to 2 hours drive

• Arusha Town: ~3.5 hours drive

• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): ~4.5 hours drive (~200 km)

Why Gnade Safaris Recommends The Highlands Camp

At Gnade Safaris, we feature The Highlands in our premium and bespoke luxury northern circuit itineraries for several distinctive reasons:

• Futuristic & Unique Architecture: The iconic geodesic dome design provides one of the most distinctive accommodation experiences in East Africa.

• Secluded Highland Setting: Positioned away from the heavy vehicle traffic of the main southern crater rim for a peaceful stay.

• Active Trekking Options: Offers direct access to hiking in Olmoti and Empakaai Craters alongside traditional vehicle game drives.

• Exclusive Lemala Crater Access: Fast transit down to the crater floor via the eastern access track allows guests to arrive early on the caldera floor.