The Highlands Ngorongoro

The Highlands Ngorongoro, an Asilia Africa property, is a pioneering eco-luxury camp that reimagines the African safari tent through bold architectural innovation. Perched on the northern slopes of the Olmoti Crater at an elevation of 2,800 meters, the camp's eight striking geodesic dome tents are a world apart from any traditional safari accommodation — their angular forms inspired by the volcanic peaks and rolling highland grasslands that surround them. Each dome is a cocoon of warmth and comfort in the cool mountain air, featuring king-size beds with heated blankets, thick woolen rugs, wood-burning stoves, and panoramic windows that frame views of the volcanic highlands and the distant Serengeti plains below. The innovative design minimizes environmental impact while maximizing guest comfort, with each dome's triangulated panels creating a surprisingly spacious and acoustically peaceful interior. The communal lounge and dining dome is a convivial space where guests gather around a central fireplace, sharing stories over craft cocktails and locally sourced meals. The chef draws inspiration from the highland landscape, using foraged herbs, highland honey, and produce from nearby farming communities. The wine list emphasizes sustainable producers from South Africa and beyond. The camp's highland location provides access to experiences unavailable elsewhere in the Ngorongoro region. Guided treks to the rim of Olmoti Crater reveal a hidden waterfall cascading into the caldera below. Empakaai Crater, with its flamingo-dotted lake framed by steep forest-clad walls, is accessible on a challenging but rewarding full-day hike. The camp also offers cultural immersion with the local Maasai community, whose cattle graze the surrounding highlands, and serves as an excellent base for descending into the Ngorongoro Crater at dawn.