The Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, often called "Africa's Garden of Eden" due to its incredible density of wildlife in a breathtaking natural amphitheater.
Overview
Formed when a giant volcano collapsed 2-3 million years ago, the Ngorongoro Crater is a natural wonder. Its 600-meter-high walls enclose a 260 sq km floor, creating a self-contained ecosystem with a permanent water source (Lake Magadi). This leads to an extraordinarily high concentration of animals, including the Big Five. It's one of the best places in Africa to see the critically endangered black rhino.
Photo Gallery
Attractions
The Crater Floor: The main attraction, with grasslands, forests, a swamp, and a soda lake.
Big Five Density: One of the best places to see lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhino in one day.
Lake Magadi: A shallow alkaline lake, often covered with thousands of flamingos.
Lerai Forest: A fever tree forest where elephants and leopards are often seen.
Olduvai Gorge: Nearby archaeological site, the "Cradle of Mankind."
Activities
Game Drives on the Crater Floor (Descending/ascending is restricted to specific hours).
Visiting a Maasai Boma (Village) on the crater rim.
Touring Olduvai Gorge Museum.
Walking Safaris on the crater rim (with a guide).
Best Time to Visit
Year-round: Wildlife viewing is consistently excellent.
Dry Season (June-September): Easier to spot animals as grass is shorter and they gather around water. Busiest time.
Green Season (November-May): Lush, beautiful, with fewer crowds. Birdlife is prolific, and calving season (Jan-Feb) attracts predators.
How to Get There
By Air: Fly to Kilimanjaro (JRO) or Arusha (ARK), then drive 3-4 hours.
By Road: Part of the standard "Northern Circuit" safari route from Arusha (3-4 hour drive).
Accommodation
Luxury: &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, The Manor at Ngorongoro
Mid-Range: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Budget: Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge, Simba Public Campsite on the rim.
Note: There is no accommodation on the crater floor itself.
Local Culture
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a unique multiple-land-use area where wildlife coexists with semi-nomadic Maasai pastoralists. You will see them herding their cattle on the highlands and can visit authentic bomas.
Weather Information
The crater rim (~2,300m) is much cooler and mistier than the crater floor.
Crater Rim: Can be chilly, especially at night. Pack warm layers.
Crater Floor: Generally warmer and sunnier.
Safety Tips
Do not drive off-road in the crater. Stay on the tracks to protect the environment.
Feeding animals is strictly prohibited.
The crater rim is at altitude; move slowly if you feel any effects.
Travel Tips
Start your descent early (at 6 am) to maximize time and avoid midday crowds.
Bring a packed breakfast/lunch, as there are limited picnic sites.
Combine with Serengeti and Lake Manyara for a classic itinerary.
Location Map
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Quick Information
Tanzania
Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Arusha Region)
-3.166700, 35.583300
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