Ngorongoro Crater

Africa’s Natural Wonder and Home of the Big Five

Best Time

June – October

Region

Northern Tanzania

Area

260 km²

Safari Style

Private Safaris

Overview

Discover Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Formed millions of years ago after the collapse of a giant volcano, the crater has become a unique natural sanctuary supporting an exceptional concentration of wildlife within its towering volcanic walls.

Covering approximately 260 square kilometers, the crater floor is home to grasslands, forests, swamps, freshwater springs, and seasonal lakes that provide ideal habitats for a remarkable variety of animals. Its enclosed ecosystem allows visitors to experience incredible wildlife viewing throughout the year.

Wildlife & Landscape

Ngorongoro offers one of the highest wildlife densities in Africa, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, hippos, flamingos, and the endangered black rhino. The dramatic crater walls, lush forests, and open plains create one of Tanzania’s most breathtaking safari landscapes.

Why Visit ?

Whether you are searching for the Big Five, enjoying spectacular scenery, or experiencing one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders, Ngorongoro Crater promises unforgettable wildlife encounters and world-class safari experiences in every season.

Highlights

UNESCO World Heritage Site
Excellent Big Five Sightings
Largest Intact Volcanic Caldera
Home to the Rare Black Rhino
Spectacular Crater Landscapes
Year-Round Wildlife Viewing

Things to do

Game Drive on the Crater Floor
Big Five Wildlife Viewing
Bird Watching
Wildlife Photography
Picnic at Hippo Pool
Visit a Maasai Boma

Best Time to Visit

JAN – MAR

The lush green landscapes make this an excellent time for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and photography, with pleasant weather across the crater.

APR – MAY

The rainy season transforms the crater into a vibrant paradise with fewer visitors, offering peaceful game drives and dramatic scenery.

JUN – OCT

The dry season provides outstanding wildlife viewing as animals gather around permanent water sources, making it one of the best times to visit.

NOV – DEC

Short rains refresh the landscape, creating beautiful green scenery while maintaining excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Getting There

Ngorongoro Crater is located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in northern Tanzania, approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) west of Arusha. The journey by road takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, passing through the vibrant town of Karatu and the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands before reaching the crater rim.

Most visitors explore Ngorongoro as part of Tanzania’s famous Northern Safari Circuit, often combining it with Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park. The drive itself offers spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley, rolling coffee plantations, and traditional Maasai villages.

For travelers looking to reduce driving time, scheduled and charter flights are available from Arusha, Zanzibar, and other major safari destinations to nearby airstrips, followed by a short road transfer into the conservation area. Lowen Safaris arranges all transportation to ensure a seamless and comfortable journey.

On the Map

Your Safari in Pictures

PLAN YOUR JOURNEY

Let’s Plan your Serengeti wonderful safari

Our Tanzania safari specialists will help you design the perfect itinerary based on your travel dates, interests, accommodation preferences, and budget.