Overview
Immerse yourself in tranquility of a highland farm
Blanketing the forested slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater, this charming historic family coffee plantation offers you the feeling of stepping back in time. The two family houses and 17 cottages evoke a true sense of community.
It was first established as a coffee plantation by a German duke in the early 1900s, and James and Margaret Gibbs bought the property after World War II. They went on to establish the farm as you see it today in the 1970s. In fact, it’s the oldest guest house in this part of the country.
The 17 refurbished, one-bedroom cottages are dotted around the farm and each boasts its own private terrace, living area, en-suite bathroom and outdoor shower. In some you’re treated to garden views and in others valley views.
In turn, Bustani and Deutsches, the two farm houses, are the perfect escape for larger families or groups. The houses are spacious and each has two en-suite bathrooms and outdoor showers, as well as private living areas decorated with a carefully-curated mix of contemporary Tanzanian art and antiques.
There’s no better way to start your day than with a cup of Arabica grown and roasted right there on your doorstep. Tuck into a hearty farm breakfast and then spend your days out on safari or exploring the farm and surrounds.
At a glance
-
17 cottages and two two-bedroom houses
-
Swimming pool
-
Spa
-
Restaurant
Experiences
-
![Ngorongoro Crater Gibbs Farm Tanzania 18]()
Farm to crater rim walk
This signature safari experience will take you off the beaten path and into the fascinating wilderness. Along the way there’s a good probability that you’ll see elephants, Cape buffalos and bush pigs. There are also some 200 bird species to keep a look out for.
-
![Ngorongoro Crater Gibbs Farm Tanzania 22]()
Safaris
Full- and half-day safaris can take you into nearby national parks Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara and Lake Eyasi. In the latter, you can also opt to enjoy a cultural experience with the Hadzabe tribe, who may even share their local brew with you.
-
![Ngorongoro Crater Gibbs Farm Tanzania 13]()
Artists in residence
While at Gibb’s Farm you may be able to meet a couple of the East African artists participating in the farm’s artists-in-residence programme. Spend some time with them and they will share their process, influences and inspiration with you as you watch them create their artworks which are also available for purchase.
-
![Ngorongoro Crater Gibbs Farm Tanzania Spa]()
Wellness treatments
Gibb’s Farm has positioned itself as a sanctuary for the senses. When you’re not out on exploring, choose from a variety of wellness treatments designed to fresh your body and mind.
-
![Ngorongoro Crater Gibbs Farm Tanzania 14]()
Tloma village visit
If you’re interested in learning more about the communities who call the area home, consider spending some time in the nearby village of Tloma. Here you can visit a school, explore the area on bicycles or meet a local family and learn all about the Iraqw traditions and way of life.
Community & Culture
At Gibb’s Farm the relationship with the diverse cultures and people of East Africa is extremely important. They have formed connections with local communities and have partnered on cultural progammes and conservation efforts. Among their aims is to help preserve the history, stories, artworks and ways of life of both the Iraqw and Maasai people. One of the previous managers, Dale Jensen, established the Karatu Education Fund in 2000. The farm continues to support the organisation. Various projects help to improve school facilities and education services in the Karatu Disctrict.
Footprint
The legacy of sustainable and environmentally respectful practices that the founders instilled in the farm’s ethos prevails through a variety of projects, including solar energy, community upliftment and organic farming. More than 90% of produce used here comes from their own gardens and farmyard which are run using sustainable farming methods. The farm also has the largest solar panel array in Northern Tanzania, which takes care of heating 90% of the property’s water. All of the grey water is recycled and used in the farm and garden. When restoration and construction needs to take place, local materials are used as far as possible.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
-
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
-
Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
-
Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
-
Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
