Ngorongoro Crater

The World’s Largest Intact Caldera

Overview

Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most breathtaking safari destinations in Africa. Formed over two million years ago by a collapsed volcano, this massive caldera spans about 260 square kilometers and creates a natural enclosure teeming with wildlife.

Often referred to as “Africa’s Garden of Eden,” the Crater offers one of the highest concentrations of animals on the continent, including the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — all found within the crater floor.

Best Time to Visit

  • June to October (Dry Season): Best for game viewing as vegetation is low and animals gather at water sources.
  • November to May (Green Season): Lush and beautiful, ideal for birdwatching and photography, but roads may be muddy.

Things to Do

  • Game Drives: Explore the crater floor and spot rhinos, lions, hyenas, hippos, flamingos, and more.
  • Visit a Maasai Village: Experience the culture of the indigenous Maasai who live in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
  • Hiking: Trekking around the crater rim or nearby Empakaai and Olmoti craters for stunning views.
  • Olduvai Gorge Visit: Discover one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world.
  • Bird Watching: Over 500 species including flamingos, crowned cranes, and kori bustards.

Where to Stay

Accommodations range from basic campsites to high-end lodges in and around the park:

  • Luxury: Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, The Highlands, Entamanu Ngorongoro
  • Mid-Range: Rhino Lodge, Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
  • Budget: Simba Public Campsite, accommodations in Karatu town

We help you select the perfect accommodation depending on your safari route and season.

Getting There

  • By Road: Approx. 3.5–4 hours drive from Arusha (190 km). Commonly included in northern circuit safaris.
  • By Air: Charter flights to Lake Manyara Airstrip or Ngorongoro Airstrip, followed by a short drive.

Safari Packages that Include Ngorongoro Crater

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