THE GREAT NGORONGORO CRATER
Ngorongoro is one of Tanzania’s most spectacular safari destinations. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique wildlife experience where visitors can see lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards the famed Big Five. Our Ngorongoro safari tours are carefully designed to maximize wildlife sightings while providing comfort and local expertise. Whether you’re combining it with a Serengeti safari or exploring Tanzania’s other top safari destinations, Ngorongoro promises unforgettable landscapes and wildlife encounters.
Explore the Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater formed when a massive volcano erupted and collapsed about 2.5 million years ago. This caldera, the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world, spans 102 square miles (264 km²) with walls 610 meters deep. Its unique ecosystem hosts an incredible concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards the Big Five.
History of Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Maasai pastoralists named the area after the sound of their cowbells, Ngorongoro. The first European to visit was Oscar Baumann in 1892. Designated a conservation area in 1959, Ngorongoro integrates human development with wildlife protection. The nearby Olduvai Gorge preserves traces of early humans, including Homo habilis, offering a fascinating glimpse into our ancestors.
Why Visit Ngorongoro
- Accessible Location: Only 3 hours from Arusha, the northern safari hub.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its ecological and historical significance since 1979.
- Diverse Wildlife: Home to lions, leopards, hyenas, black rhinos, and hundreds of bird species.
- Stunning Landscapes: Volcanoes, soda lakes like Ndutu and Masek, and dramatic crater walls create an unforgettable backdrop.
Things to Do in Ngorongoro
- Wildlife Safaris: Spot the Big Five and over 2,500 animals in a single day.
- Visit Olduvai Gorge: Explore the museum and viewpoints to learn about early humans.
- Shifting Sand Dunes: Witness the sacred black dunes moving 15–20 meters per year.
- Laetoli Footprints: Walk near 3.7-million-year-old hominid footprints.
- Empakaai Crater: See alkaline lakes, flamingos, lush forests, and rare wildlife.
- Bird Watching: Ideal for spotting raptors, kori bustards, and colorful endemic species.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (June–October) is ideal for wildlife spotting because the grass is short and animals gather near water sources. However, Ngorongoro is spectacular year-round.
How to Get There
Drive from Arusha (167 km, ~3 hours) or Kilimanjaro Airport (219 km, ~4.5 hours). Roads are well-maintained, making the crater easily accessible for day trips or extended safaris.
Where to Stay
- Budget: Simba A Campsite on the crater rim for a full safari experience.
- Mid-Range: Wildlife Lodge, Rhino Lodge, Pakulala Tented Camp.
- Luxury: Premium lodges on the crater rim with stunning views and world-class amenities.