Accommodation in Tanzania: Gibbs Farm
Veranda on New Farm Cottage, Gibbs Farm, Karatu
Our Rating: First Class
Gibbs Farm
Karatu
Gibbs Farm is a magical place: it is tucked away outside Karatu in the Ngorongoro Crater Highlands, on a hill with views over forests and lush agricultural land.
The old farm houses a dining room, bar and living room with roaring fire and small bar. Outside, there is a wide lawn with views of the valleys and the most incredible gardens in Tanzania.
Paths wind between lilies, bougainvillea and roses to twenty guest cottages, nearly all of which have been refurbished (only a couple remain to be completed).
The standard rooms are simple but spacious with beds, wardrobes, open fires and en suite bathrooms with piping hot water. The new cottages are spacious and decorated with smart, country decor, with plenty of places to sit and relax, an open fire, large bath, and an indoor and outdoor shower and a balcony enshrouded with flowers and with pretty views over the farm.
Gibbs Farm is superb for relaxing in. However, if you'd like to be active there's plenty to see and do. There are walks through the forests to waterfalls, elephant mineral caves and along mountain tops. You can watch the coffee being roasted, visit the market in nearby Karatu or learn about the tree planting and school projects that Gibbs are involved in.
About an hours drive from Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater it can also be used as a base for full day trips into either park.