Crater Forest Camp is an excellent small tented camp on the edge of the Ngorongoro Tropical Forest away from the bustling town of Karatu and other lodges.

To get to the camp requires a thirty minute drive away from the main Karatu road down a very bumpy dirt track but what you will find is a place that is charming with genuine character and appeal.

Established on an old highland coffee estate, at an altitude 1,800 m above sea-level, the camp occupies previously cultivated fields directly bordering Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. The land immediately surrounding the lodge is being restored to some of its natural forest habitat, with the camp management overseeing the conversion from crop cultivation to regeneration of indigenous groundcover. It really does have a wonderful natural feel throughout.

The 15 comfortable tented rooms under thatch are all on platforms with magnificent views over the Ngorongoro forest and surrounding valleys. The rooms are spacious enough and have ensuite bathrooms with excellent hot showers and flush toilets. For the chilly upland nights you can enjoy the warmth of your own African-style firepot within your room.

The food and hospitality has always been good and rather than just using the camp as a stopover enroute to the Ngorongoro we would suggest taking some time out to enjoy the superb forest and cultural walks. They have a wonderful guide called "Symphony" who will happily show you around the neighbouring villages.

A really cool camp which offers something a little more natural and off the beaten track.