Ngorongoro Crater
A Wildlife Haven in a Volcanic Crater
Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater, present in northern Tanzania, is the largest unbroken volcanic crater in the world. This natural amphitheatre is a unique sanctuary that is popular for some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa, all set against the backdrop of stunning crater walls. It’s a key part of any Tanzanian safari, drawing visitors eager to see its abundant wildlife and picturesque landscapes.
The crater floor is teeming with wildlife, making it easy to spot the Big Five: elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes. It’s also home to cheetahs, hyenas, and many other animals, supported by the year-round water and food available in the area. This makes Ngorongoro a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts who are guaranteed to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat.
Visitors can do more than just wildlife watching. Engaging with the local Maasai tribes gives insight into traditional lifestyles, while a trip to the nearby Olduvai Gorge provides a glimpse into the ancient human history preserved there. Doesn’t matter if you’re exploring wildlife, meeting local communities, or learning about human evolution, Ngorongoro Crater is a must-add destination to your Tanzania Safari itinerary.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (June to October) Animal spotting is easier with shorter grass on the crater floor.
- Wet Season (November to May) The landscape is lush and Lake Magadi attracts high concentrations of flamingos.
Getting to Ngorongoro Crater
- By Road from Arusha Driving from Arusha is a popular choice for Getting to Ngorongoro Crater. There is a direct route covering 180 km that typically takes about three hours. The drive itself is picturesque, winding through Tanzanian landscapes that offer potential wildlife sightings. For those coming from other parks, the drive from Lake Manyara takes about two hours, while the journey from Tarangire National Park can last around four hours, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the East African wilderness.
- By Air Flying into the region offers a quicker, panoramic view of the vast Tanzanian landscape. Visitors typically fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, located about 50 km from Arusha, where many safari journeys begin. From Arusha, small aircraft can whisk you to airstrips close to Ngorongoro, reducing travel time and offering a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful terrain.
The Tanzania Safari Packages
Northern Circuit Tanzania
The Northern Circuit in Tanzania is a premier safari route, famed for diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Key attractions include Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park.
