Gibbs Farm is located in a beautiful area which is surrounded by rolling hills and the lodges own coffee plantation Although some may argue that the Lodge is located too far away from the Crater, in reality its location places it within a 30 minute drive from both the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara meaning that it is an excellent base for safaris to both regions.
Gibbs Farm - The Facts
Located in the Ngorongoro Highlands
6 en-suite bungalows and 14 en-suite cottages
Traditional Masai treatment room
Guided walks and mountain biking available
Gibbs Farm - The Detail
Gibbs, built in the early 20th century by German settlers, was established as a coffee farm in the 1930s, and became property of the British Custodian of Enemy Property after the Second World War. In 1948 it was sold to British war veteran James Gibb, who restored the neglected coffee farm and settled here with his wife Margaret, who started a small vegetable and flower garden. The farm became a lodge in 1972, twelve years after the Ngorongoro Conservation Area was established around it. The coffee plantation was sold after James Gibb died in 1977, leaving enough land for extensive flower and vegetable gardens and a dairy, which supply the lodge with fresh organic produce.
The lodge an 80-year-old Farmhouse, and 20 luxurious ensuite cottages are the heart of a working African Farm. Connect to the rhythm of the land and her people through the resident naturalists, guides, artists and indigenous healers of the African Living Spa. Wander through extensive floral & medicinal gardens and a private forest reserve, and explore 30 acres of coffee, 10 acres of herbs and vegetables and a dairy and pig farm: all 100% organic and the source of famous home-cooked meals.
Each Farm Cottage, nestled in its own secluded flower garden, has spacious interiors with panoramic windows, private verandah and wraparound fireplace. Garden bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower, generous bathtub and garden fireplace is a true Sanctuary for the Senses.
A perfect base for extended-stay safari exploration and adventure by vehicle, bicycle or foot, Gibbs Farm has been friend and host to the Tanzanian safari journeyer for over 40 years.
Gibbs Farm is a good spot to stop for a wholesome buffet lunch of savoury pies and salads, although it must be booked in advance. Otherwise its views and gardens make it an elegant spot for morning or afternoon tea, and it is well-situated halfway between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
The lodge has a bird list of 210 local species to date, and various alternatives for afternoon or day trips, including a guided walk through the Ngorongoro Montane Forest to the elephant caves where elephants have created a deep crevice in their ruthless foraging for minerals. Otherwise walk to the Rift edge for sundowners with a view, or to the small town of Karatu 4km from the farm, to see local women preparing fast food for travellers and selling a range of goods from their roadside stalls.
