Gibb’s Farm is a working farm located on the forested slopes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area overlooking the Great Rift Valley and Ngorongoro Forest. It comprises a warm and friendly community where the rhythm of farm life has calmed and restored the weary safari journeyer for over 40 years. Set among formal English gardens, the farmhouse and 20 ensuite cottages are the heart of a working farm. Gibb’s Farm offers something a little different to the full-on safari experience you will no doubt have incorporated into your holiday. It is a welcome retreat from the rigors of daily life or the adventures of safari to Tanzania.
A diverse variety of experiences are possible during a visit to Gibb’s Farm. “A Farm Life” activity program encourages cultural awareness, an historical interest, a connection to nature and a desire for adventure – and still leaves ample time for relaxing and enjoying the gentle rhythm of Farm Life.
Organic Arabica coffee is grown and roasted on the farm. Gibb’s Farm is proud to have it’s own 10-acre organic fruit, vegetable and herb garden, on-site dairy and bakery which provide the wonderful ingredients for the farm-to-table cuisine. With this in mind, dining is sure to be a delight.
Activities are diverse so there should always be something to suit you. Relax in the lush surroundings as you sit back on your veranda, walk in the Ngorongoro Forest, explore elephant caves or cycle through the back roads of Karatu. To calm and restore, treat yourself to a traditional African Massage, featuring indigenous Maasai healing treatments. Gibb’s Farm is dedicated to creating unique activity programs that enrich the community as well as the guest’s experience. A “farm life” encourages cultural awareness, historical interest, a connection to wellness, nature and a desire for adventure.
Arial view of Gibb's FarmCredit: Scott Ramsay
Outdoor Seating AreaCredit: Scott Ramsay
Pathway on the farmCredit: Gibb's Farm
Pathway to the dining roomCredit: Gibb's Farm
Swimming poolCredit: Natalie Roos
Soaking in the sun next to the poolCredit: Natalie Roos
Gibb's Farm Cottages
Each farm cottage holds its own story connected to Tanzanian culture and offers either twin queen or a king-size bed swathed in a soft mosquito net. Spacious interiors richly appointed with eucalyptus floors and hand-crafted furniture have recently been refurbished with modern touches to accentuate their classic charm. Perfect for smaller families, the cottages can comfortably accommodate a family of four in two queen beds (extra bed available for a third child).
The large bathroom of each cottage offers indoor and outdoor showers, a fireplace in both the living area and bathroom, bathtub and a private veranda complete the sense of tranquil privacy. From the wooden deck, soak up the peaceful surroundings with a view over the gardens, plantation or Great Rift Valley. The Swahili word “Karibu,” is often spoken expressing the genuine, innate pleasure we take in welcoming you as our guest. This is the open-heart of our hospitality.
• 17 guest cottages — each featuring a unique theme, authentic artwork and richly appointed with eucalyptus floors and hand-crafted furniture • Each cottage has lovely views of the coffee plantation or the expansive vegetable gardens
IN ROOM FACILITIES:
• Wi-Fi access available in all rooms • Writing desk area and a lounge with a wood burning fireplace • Outside deck overlooking the gardens • En-suite bathroom with fireplace, indoor and outdoor showers, bathtub and a separate toilet • Hairdryer • In-room safe
Nestled in the forest on the slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater overlooking the spectacular Rift Valley, Bustani House has been named for the Swahili word meaning garden. While retaining the farm cottage feel, Bustani has been inspired by nature, the remarkable view and the landscaped gardens directly below. The garden is an ideal spot for book lovers and writers alike, or just to relax and enjoy a break from safari.
The gardens of Bustani afford guests the opportunity to enjoy the tranquil beauty of nature against a backdrop of singing birds. Experience paradise which has been created and preserved for you by the passionate Gibb’s Farm garden team, as well as our talented carpenters who have produced some of the furniture, a labour of love. Inside, the beautiful architectural details such as the original wooden beams and colourful artwork of local artists greet you.
Charming with modern accents and dark wood finishes, the spacious two-bedroom cottage offers a master en-suite bedroom with a king-size bed and a second en-suite bedroom with two queen-size beds. Each bathroom offers an indoor shower and bath as well as an outdoor shower. The cosy living room is complete with a fireplace and the inner sanctum extends outwards to an expansive private veranda, an idlyllic setting for afternoon tea or a moment of peace. Guests can enjoy Wi-Fi access in the rooms, a writing desk area, hairdryer, and in-room safe.
Named in honour of the German Duke who founded Gibb’s Farm in the early 1900s, Deutsches House is a comfortable family retreat. Unwind amidst the peace and tranquillity of the farm after a day of activities. Richly appointed with eucalyptus floors and hand-crafted furniture, history imbues the finishes and carefully selected artworks which adorn the walls creating an atmosphere of classic charm from a bygone era.
The house features an en-suite master bedroom with a king-size bed and a second en-suite bedroom with two queen-size beds. Both bedrooms offer an indoor shower and bath as well as an outdoor shower (voted as one of the world’s best outdoor showers by Forbes). Relax in the comfort of the spacious living room beside a roaring fireplace with an absorbing read and cup of freshly roasted coffee, or enjoy the chatter of birds from the large, private veranda.
Steeped in the history of the farm, Deutsches offers cosy accommodation for up to four adults or two adults and four children. After a long day’s adventure on safari in Tanzania, recline on the veranda and let the verdant setting soothe your mind and quieten your soul.
Property Facilities
Bar, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian
Room Facilities
Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Fan, Fireplace, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Verandah
Available Services
24-hour Security, Credit Card Facilities, Foreign Exchange, Laundry Service (Complimentary)