SUMMARY:

Gibb’s Farm stands as one of the oldest guesthouse properties in North Tanzania, originally established by German settlers within a coffee estate in 1929. We often recommend it as a two-night stay to explore the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. The farm has received a prestigious Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor! Your stay includes all meals, parking, and Wi-Fi, as it is booked on a full-board basis. Young guests enjoy a special rate – feel free to reach out to our team for further information.

ACCESSIBILITY & LOCATION:

The property is reachable with a 2-hour road transfer from Arusha or a quick 30-minute drive from Lake Manyara Airport. Nestled within coffee plantations at the foothills of the Ngorongoro, this location boasts expansive gardens that draw a diverse array of birdlife!

LODGING & AMENITIES AT GIBB’S FARM:

We offer a total of 17 charming guest cottages, with one specifically designed for families or groups. Everything is located within the premises. The cottages, crafted from timber and stone, showcase gleaming eucalyptus floors and handcrafted furniture. Every one features a unique theme, attributed to Gibb’s artist in residence. As you step into the cottage, you’ll be greeted by a cozy entrance hall adorned with a vase brimming with fresh flowers. This area seamlessly transitions into a lounge, featuring a warm and inviting fireplace! The bedroom features two queen-size beds, accompanied by bedside tables and lighting. There’s also storage furniture for clothes and other belongings, along with a second fireplace that is shared with the bathroom. In the latter area, accessible via a sliding door, you’ll find a flush toilet, twin washbasins, a generous shower, and a large bathtub positioned next to a window that offers views of the gardens. Each cottage features its own private veranda, making this truly remarkable lodging! The cottage for families or groups features an extra bedroom, complete with an en-suite bathroom, accommodating up to two guests comfortably.

The communal spaces at Gibb are located within the property’s historic farmhouse, accessible via tidy stone pathways from the cottages. The structure preserves several of its authentic characteristics, particularly the low ceilings adorned with robust beams! The lounge features leather and cowhide armchairs arranged around elegant coffee tables, while the walls showcase stunning wildlife artwork. Additionally, there are a few stoves available, and you have the option to order beverages from the property’s fully stocked bar. Gibb’s features two dining rooms, each offering delightful views of the garden. The chef incorporates ingredients sourced directly from the farm’s gardens, ensuring an exceptional level of freshness in the dishes! Each day, a delightful array of buffet breakfasts and lunches awaits, complemented by an elegant three-course dinner in the evening. It is customary to have separate tables, and guests are invited to enjoy their meals on the terrace. The boutique offers the farm’s coffee for sale, alongside a wonderful selection of craft items, curios, and creations by the artist in residence. Those seeking a moment of tranquility will thoroughly enjoy spending time in the gardens, lounging by the swimming pool, indulging at the Tulia Spa, or experiencing a spa treatment in the comfort of their room.

EXPERIENCES AT GIBB’S FARM:

Gibb’s Farm presents a thrilling array of activities to enjoy:

Discover the farm – You might start by wandering through the vast grounds, enjoying the herb garden, rose garden, vegetable garden, and observing the local birdlife, alongside a knowledgeable horticulturalist! There are a variety of other walks to choose from. Feel free to explore the farm, where you can enjoy the sights of the coffee fields and the cattle herd. Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of farm life by participating in activities like bread making, vegetable harvesting, and coffee roasting!
Forest walks – For those intrigued by traditional medicine, a stroll through the Ngorongoro forest with Maasai healers will be a delightful experience, as you are introduced to various health-promoting plants. Here, you can also enjoy forest walks guided by a naturalist.
Engage in enriching community and cultural experiences such as meeting Gibb’s artist in residence, exploring the local village of Tloma, and embarking on a town tour in Karatu.
Safari activities – There are various safari activities to explore, including walking along the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, uncovering the elephant caves nestled deep within the Ngorongoro forest, and experiencing game drives both in the crater and at Lake Manyara National Park. The crater hosts the complete set of the Big Five: lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, and buffalo, along with a variety of smaller predators, herbivores, and a rich diversity of birdlife. Notable features of Lake Manyara are the unique tree-climbing lions and the impressive gatherings of flamingos!

*This property is not enclosed and is situated in a wildlife zone, meaning that large and potentially hazardous animals may roam through the area. If you choose to stay here, please remain vigilant while moving around the camp and feel free to ask a staff member to accompany you if you have any worries. Every guest is accompanied after dark as a standard practice.