The Highlands

The Highlands is accessed via Manyara Airstrip, which is approximately 1.5 hours by road from the camp. Most guests arrive on domestic charter flights from Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or regional hubs, with Asilia coordinating all transfers included in your booking. Road transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport takes approximately 2.5–3 hours.

The best time depends on your priorities. The dry season (June–October) offers optimal game drive conditions, easier road access, and cooler temperatures ideal for crater hikes. The wet season (November–May) brings lush vegetation, fewer crowds, and excellent bird-watching opportunities. The camp operates year-round, and evening wood-burning stoves provide comfort during cooler months at this elevation.

The Highlands costs US$790 per person per night on a full-board basis, which includes all meals, house drinks (except premium wines and champagne), scheduled game drives, laundry service, and airport transfers to/from Manyara Airstrip. Additional costs include park fees, crater descent fees (US$70 per person), Maasai cultural visits (US$30 per person), and premium beverages.

Yes, The Highlands welcomes families with children. The property offers an interconnected family suite with flexible configurations. Crater hikes (Olmoti and Empakaai) have a minimum age requirement of 12 years, though younger children can participate in game drives and other camp activities. Full-board rates apply to all guests regardless of age.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area where The Highlands is located supports diverse fauna including zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, eland, warthog, and various primate species. The property is particularly known for observing hippo mothers with calves in the wetlands. While the camp does not specify Big Five sighting guarantees, the conservation area is one of Africa's most biodiverse ecosystems with year-round wildlife viewing opportunities.

Your stay includes scheduled game drives through the conservation area, and access to hikes at Olmoti Crater (minimum age 12 years) and Empakaai Crater (minimum age 12 years, 3-night stay recommended for acclimatization). Night drives, bird watching, and optional Maasai cultural visits (US$30 per person) are also available. All meals and house drinks are included; additional lunch can be arranged for US$25 per person.

The Highlands does not list Wi-Fi as a standard amenity. Mobile service in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is limited and unreliable due to the remote location and elevation. The camp's positioning emphasizes disconnection and immersion in nature, making it ideal for travelers seeking digital detox during their safari experience.

The Highlands is located at elevation (2,000–2,400 meters) in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Recommended precautions include vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis (consult your physician). Travel insurance including flying doctor/medical evacuation coverage is highly recommended. The camp provides mosquito nets in all rooms and maintains generator backup for power reliability. Altitude acclimatization is recommended, especially before undertaking crater hikes.

The Highlands distinguishes itself through its boutique design (eight suites versus larger lodge operations), forest setting with volcanic views, and intimate service model. The perspex-and-canvas domed architecture offers a unique blend of safari immersion and comfort amenities like wood-burning stoves and outdoor hot tubs. Its positioning within Asilia Africa's conservation-focused portfolio emphasizes community engagement and sustainable operations compared to larger commercial lodges in the area.

You can book The Highlands directly through Asilia Africa's website (asiliaafrica.com) or compare rates and read verified reviews on SafariFind.com, which connects you with verified safari operators offering The Highlands. SafariFind allows you to compare pricing from multiple operators, read guest reviews, and secure your reservation with transparent terms and conditions.