Gibb’s Farm
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Gibb’s Farm
Welcome to Gibb’s Farm
A Timeless Retreat on the Edge of the Ngorongoro Highlands
Tucked into the lush, rolling hills of Karatu, Gibb’s Farm is a sanctuary of nature, nurture, and timeless charm. Overlooking the vast expanse of the Great Rift Valley, this historic farmhouse-turned-luxury-lodge offers a peaceful pause between safari adventures—a place where every sunrise is savored, every moment rooted in authenticity.
Whether you’re on your way to explore the Ngorongoro Crater or winding down after days in the wild, Gibb’s Farm invites you to breathe deep, slow down, and experience Tanzania’s rich landscapes and cultures in comfort and style.
Where Nature, Culture & Comfort Flourish Together
Established in the 1920s and lovingly restored, Gibb’s Farm blends colonial farmhouse charm with African warmth. The grounds brim with organic gardens, vibrant flower beds, coffee trees, and secret footpaths leading to forest trails and cascading waterfalls.
🌿 Elegant Farm Cottages: Each of the 17 cottages offers a private garden, indoor and outdoor showers, cozy fireplaces, and hand-crafted furnishings—all surrounded by the sounds of birdsong and forest breeze.
☕ Working Coffee Estate: Stroll through the coffee fields, learn about bean-to-cup roasting, or simply enjoy a fresh French-press brew on your veranda as the morning mist rises.
🍽️ Field-to-Fork Dining: Meals at Gibb’s are unforgettable, with ingredients grown right on the farm. Dine in the farmhouse or under the stars—every plate tells a story of the land.
🪵 Thoughtful Touches Throughout: Spa treatments, art from local artisans, guided forest walks to waterfalls and elephant caves, and quiet spaces to write, paint, or reflect.
Rooted in Community, Committed to Conservation
More than just a lodge, Gibb’s Farm is part of the land and the lives around it. The staff are proud members of the local Karatu and Ngorongoro communities, and the farm supports a variety of educational and environmental initiatives. Guests are welcome to connect, learn, and give back during their stay.
Perfectly Positioned for Exploration
Located midway between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater, Gibb’s Farm is an ideal base for:
Game drives in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Cultural visits to nearby villages
Hikes to the Ngorongoro Forest waterfalls and elephant caves
Birdwatching, photography, or simply soaking in the view
Come Home to the Heart of the Highlands
At Gibb’s Farm, life moves at the rhythm of nature. It’s a place for reconnecting—to the land, to others, and to yourself. Whether you’re arriving dusty from safari or just beginning your journey, you’ll leave refreshed, inspired, and deeply nourished by the spirit of this very special place.
Welcome to Gibb’s Farm—where luxury is quiet, life is grounded, and every stay is unforgettable.
Services & Facilities at Gibb’s Farm
Where Tranquility, Comfort, and Culture Come Together
At Gibb’s Farm, each moment is designed to nurture both body and soul. Whether you’re fresh from a safari or simply seeking a peaceful pause amid your journey, our farmstead offers more than just a place to sleep—it’s a fully immersive experience. Here, hospitality blends seamlessly with heritage, and every detail reflects the beauty of the Ngorongoro Highlands.
Farmhouse Comforts
Farm-to-Table Dining
Meals at Gibb’s Farm are a highlight of every stay. Using fresh produce from our organic gardens, each dish is thoughtfully prepared and bursting with local flavor. Enjoy hearty breakfasts, garden-fresh lunches, and elegant dinners under the stars or in the cozy dining room. Special dietary needs—including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free—are warmly accommodated.
Lounge & Library
Curl up by the fireplace with a good book, explore our curated library filled with African history and nature writings, or sip a glass of wine while overlooking the lush farmgrounds. The main lodge offers inviting spaces for connection or quiet reflection.
Coffee Station
Enjoy unlimited fresh, home-grown coffee brewed from beans harvested and roasted right here on the estate. Perfect for early risers or slow, mid-afternoon moments.
Garden & Grounds
Organic Gardens & Coffee Walks
Wander through our colorful vegetable gardens, flowerbeds, and working coffee fields. Guests are welcome to join complimentary farm walks, learn about sustainable agriculture, and even try their hand at roasting their own coffee.
Forest Trails & Waterfalls
Explore the surrounding highland forest on guided or solo hikes to hidden waterfalls and ancient elephant caves. The trails are rich with birdlife and shaded by indigenous trees—a peaceful escape for nature lovers.
Outdoor Fireplaces & Stargazing
Evenings at Gibb’s Farm are magical. Cozy up by the outdoor firepits, sip herbal tea or a nightcap, and gaze at the clear highland skies. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploration.
Guest Services
Twice-daily room service & evening turndown
Laundry service (same-day available)
Safari & crater excursion coordination
Guided farm, village & forest walks
Packed breakfasts/lunches for early departures
Complimentary Wi-Fi in cottages and common areas
Spa treatments using local botanicals (available on request)
Babysitting services for families (pre-booking required)
Private transfers to/from Lake Manyara & Ngorongoro airstrips
Amenities in Every Cottage
Private garden-facing verandas with seating
Wood-burning fireplace for cool highland nights
Mosquito netting & premium bedding
En-suite bathroom with hot shower and eco-friendly products
In-room coffee/tea tray with Gibb’s own blend
Writing desk and cozy reading corner
In-room safe, robes, and slippers
At Gibb’s Farm, You Arrive as a Guest and Leave as Family
More than just a lodge, Gibb’s Farm is a place of renewal—where culture, comfort, and connection flourish. Whether you’re soaking in the peaceful rhythm of farm life, savoring a cup of coffee you helped roast, or simply watching the light change over the Rift Valley, every experience is heartfelt and unforgettable.
This is not just a stay—it’s a return to simplicity, authenticity, and the heart of Tanzania.
Room Types & Descriptions at Gibb’s Farm
Your Highland Sanctuary in the Heart of Nature
Perched on the forested slopes of the Ngorongoro Highlands, Gibb’s Farm invites you to unwind in beautifully appointed cottages inspired by nature, tradition, and tranquility. Every room offers more than just a place to sleep—it’s a peaceful retreat where you can reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
Whether you’re sipping fresh coffee on your veranda, reading by the fireplace, or soaking in garden views after a day of safari or hiking, each cottage blends rustic charm with refined comfort.
Garden Cottage
Cozy Comfort Surrounded by Greenery
Our signature Garden Cottages provide a peaceful and intimate space surrounded by colorful gardens and vibrant birdlife.
Queen or twin beds with handcrafted furniture and fine linens
En-suite bathroom with hot shower, eco-conscious toiletries, and bathrobes
Indoor seating area with a wood-burning fireplace
Private veranda with views of the farm or Ngorongoro hills
Writing desk, in-room safe, and locally inspired decor
Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or friends wanting a cozy base for highland exploration.
Farm Cottage
Space, Warmth, and a Touch of Heritage
Ideal for longer stays or guests who enjoy a little more room to relax, our Farm Cottages offer extra space and thoughtful touches rooted in Gibb’s storied history.
King-size bed with mosquito net and soft cotton sheets
En-suite bathroom with walk-in shower and hand-carved stone sink
Spacious sitting area with reading chairs, desk, and fireplace
Private terrace overlooking the coffee fields or gardens
Mini-bar, tea/coffee tray, and personalized touches
Great for couples or solo travelers who enjoy quiet, stylish comfort in a historic setting.
Family Cottage
Togetherness and Comfort in the Highlands
Designed for families or small groups, our Family Cottages provide shared space and flexible layouts for bonding, relaxing, and exploring.
Two bedrooms with configurable bedding (king, twin, or triple options)
Two bathrooms with hot showers and full amenities
Central lounge area with sofas, fireplace, and board games
Private garden terrace ideal for morning coffee or family dinners
Extra amenities for children available on request
Ideal for families, friends, or multi-generational groups seeking connection and comfort.
Deutsches House (Historic Residence)
A Home Steeped in Character and Charm
Once the residence of the original German settler family, this historic farmhouse cottage offers a rare blend of authenticity and luxury.
King-size master bedroom and second twin bedroom
Two bathrooms with a freestanding tub and walk-in showers
Large living and dining area with antique furnishings
Wraparound porch with panoramic farm and forest views
Ideal for private groups or families who want a spacious, home-style stay
Best suited for guests looking for history, privacy, and a touch of old-world elegance.
At Gibb’s Farm, Every Cottage is a Journey in Itself
From morning birdsong to the glow of firelight in the evening, your stay is designed to immerse you in the rhythm of the land. Thoughtful service, cozy details, and natural beauty make each room a true sanctuary—perfect for reflecting, recharging, and embracing the magic of the Ngorongoro Highlands.
Gibb’s Farm – Where Stories, Scenery, and Stillness Come Together.
Near by Activities Gibb’s Farm
Exclusive Safari Game Drive
Coffee Farm Tour at Gibb’s Farm
Nature Walks & Bird Watching
Cultural and Maasai Experience
TRAVEL OFFER & DISCOUNT
Our Special Safari and Adventures Offer
testimonial
What They Say About Us
We organise safari and beach holidays to Tanzania. We believe our expertise, knowledge and enthusiasm for organising travel to Africa is unrivalled.
hassona992024-02-23Amazing life experience It was amazing experience of my life . Thank you Kilipath african Safaris for the excellent arrangements and the professional staff especially the guide driver Bryan and the chefs. All the people taking care of every detail. Thank you so much.
Traveler240887623122024-02-20Great tour with amazing people We were able to see a variety of animals including the big 5! The tour guide and the chef were really kind and explained everything to us. Also the other tour participants were absolutely cool and we became good friends. Kilipath Afrocan Safari was always on time and responded quickly so totally recommended!! Would like to use them again.
KATJAJENI2024-02-15Uforgetable safari 5/5 We had been communicating on Whatsapp from my home country. They prepared various options at my request and were very responsive and kind. After arriving in Arusha, they picked us up at our hotel and left us at Kilimanjaro Airport as per our request. The safari was amazing! The lodges exceeded expectations, and the food there was also nice. The tour guide was so kind and fun, making the experience truly enjoyable. We saw all the Big Five and many other animals! It was an unforgettable experience!
Eva L2024-02-14Best safari It was great traveling with kilipath African safaris. They were amazing. My friend was unfortunately sick most of the safari, but the staff was very understanding and helped us a lot! Plus the food was so so delicious
Baasit K2024-02-07Words cannot explain how amazing this experience is Lovely/amazing/once in a life time/crazy/incredible… words cannot justify the experience that we have had with this tour, a gentleman called felix is who we booked our safari with and he picked us up personally from the airport and took us to our first hotel for the night in arush he was lovely and very kid hearted and hospitable, our driver was also very nice and very educated and alert to make sure we didn’t miss out on any of the amazing animals… and we saw lots, antelope/zebras/wild beasts/lions/rhinos/elephants/giraffes just to name a few… the camp site looked amazing however we had booked tented lodges before hand and regretted it incredibly when we had seen the camp sites but non the less the tented camps were also amazing, the food was incredible both on the safari and in the lodges and it was nice to have picnics with the group, I would 10000% advise you to book with these guys as just a recommendation is not enough, I hope to be back in the near future and will be booking with these guys again :)
Haleema H2024-02-07The best experience of my life This tour was absolutely amazing!! Our guide felix was absolutely amazing he made us super happy. The experience was far better than we thought and we got to see all big 5 and the migration of the zebras and wildbeast.
Allyson Phillip2024-01-30Amazing Day To Climbing Mountain Kilimanjaro My husband and I reserved a one-day hike to Mandara Hut on Kilimanjaro with our guide, Mr. Joel. He picked us up from the hotel at 6 am and returned us by 8 pm. Mr. Joel ensured our comfort throughout the day, attending to all our needs during the hike. We highly recommend him to anyone considering a Kilimanjaro trek.
Delia G2024-01-30A very nice and enjoyable trip! A very good and knowledgeable guide! Enjoyed it a lot!!! The weather also helped :). The route is less difficult than expected. Definitely worth it for a day trip.
GLORY D2024-01-28Kilimanjaro day hike materuni waterfall and hotspring "Thrilled with the Kilimanjaro private day hike to Materuni Waterfall and Hot Spring by Kilipath African Safaris! Seamless logistics, a personalized guide, and stunning landscapes made it a highlight of my Tanzanian journey. Materuni Waterfall and the soothing hot spring were an unbeatable combo. Highly recommend Kilipath African Safaris for an enriching blend of nature and culture in Kilimanjaro's heart!"