Location
Karatu / Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

One of East Africa’s most beloved lodges, Gibb’s Farm is located on the forested slopes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley. Just a 30-minute drive from the crater rim, the lodge offers a rare balance of refined comfort, direct access to wilderness and a powerful sense of place. Originally established as a coffee estate in the 1920s, Gibb’s has evolved into an award-winning property known for its farm-fresh cuisine, elegant cottages and environmental ethos.

The original farmhouse and surrounding buildings have been carefully restored, blending historic character and modern style. Common areas feature hand-carved furniture, locally made textiles, traditional Tanzanian artwork and inviting fireplaces. Outside, terraced gardens brim with organic vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruit trees. Coffee is still grown and roasted on site. Walking trails wind through the farm.

Spacious guest cottages are designed for privacy and calm with interiors that include polished eucalyptus floors, tall ceilings with exposed beams and large timber-framed windows. Each cottage offers a private veranda, a king bed or two queen-size beds with mosquito netting, kilim rugs, ceramic lamps and antique writing desks. Bathrooms include both indoor and outdoor showers and a deep soaking tub with garden views.

Meals are a cornerstone of the Gibb’s experience. Nearly all ingredients are harvested daily from the farm: eggs, dairy, greens, root vegetables, herbs and fruit. Menus feature dishes like beetroot carpaccio, roasted guinea fowl, pumpkin soup with coriander and lemongrass creme brulee. Meals are served fireside, in the garden or on the veranda.

Sustainability is woven into daily operations: solar power provides electricity, greywater irrigates the gardens and every guest stay supports local reforestation and community initiatives. In 2025, Natural Habitat Adventures acquired Gibb’s Farm.