ConservancyFeatured DestinationUNESCO World HeritageBig Five
Ngorongoro Crater
Tanzania 264 km² (102 mi²) Est. 1959
About Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest intact volcanic caldera and one of Africa's most remarkable natural wonders. Formed roughly two to three million years ago when a massive volcano collapsed, the crater floor spans approximately 264 square kilometers and shelters an extraordinary concentration of wildlife within its steep, unbroken walls.
Often called the 'Eighth Wonder of the World,' the crater is home to approximately 25,000 large animals, including the endangered black rhinoceros, lions, elephants, buffalo, and flamingo-lined soda lakes. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area also supports Maasai pastoralists who continue to live and graze their cattle alongside wild animals, creating a unique coexistence of humans and wildlife.
10
Safari Tours
4.5
Avg Rating
5/5
Big Five
67
Years Protected
Highlights
- Highest density of wildlife in Africa within a compact, enclosed area
- One of the best places to spot the endangered black rhinoceros
- Stunning volcanic caldera scenery unlike anywhere else
- Year-round game viewing with no need for long drives
- UNESCO World Heritage Site with rich cultural Maasai heritage
Considerations
- Vehicle congestion on the crater floor, especially during peak season
- Strict time limits on crater floor visits restrict flexibility
- High and increasing conservation fees for crater access
- Altitude makes mornings very cold, requiring warm clothing
Wildlife
Big Five Status
🦁
Lion
common
🐆
Leopard
occasional
🐘
Elephant
common
🦬
Buffalo
common
🦏
Rhino
occasional
Notable Species
Lion
Common
Leopard
Occasional
Elephant
Common
Cape Buffalo
Common
Black Rhino
Occasional
Zebra
Common
Wildebeest
Common
Hippo
Common
Thomson's Gazelle
Common
Grant's Gazelle
Common
Hyena
Common
Fish Eagle
Occasional
Kori Bustard
Occasional
Lilac-breasted Roller
Common
Aardvark
Rare
Common Occasional Rare
Best Time to Visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal
Climate Overview
Getting There
Located about 180 kilometers west of Arusha, the crater is typically reached by road in about 3-4 hours. Most visitors combine it with a Serengeti safari as it lies along the main access route. Charter flights are also available to the nearby airstrip.
Nearest Airport
Lake Manyara Airstrip (LKY)
Nearest City
Arusha
Drive Time
3.5 hours
Safari Tours (10)
Ngorongoro Tours
4.5
4 Days Crater Highlands Safari
4 days
From
$1,600 /person
Featured
Serengeti Adventures
4.4
10 Days Ultimate Tanzania Safari
10 days
From
$4,000 /person

Featured
Serengeti Adventures
4.4
6 Days Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari
6 days
From
$3,500 /person
Featured
Serengeti Adventures
4.4
7 Days Great Migration Safari
7 days
From
$3,500 /person
Ngorongoro Tours
4.5
3 Days Quick Crater Safari
3 days
From
$1,100 /person
Serengeti Adventures
4.4
3 Days Budget Camping Safari
3 days
From
$720 /person
Featured
Kilimanjaro Safaris
4.5
8 Days Kilimanjaro Trek & Safari Combo
8 days
From
$2,900 /person
Kilimanjaro Safaris
4.5
6 Days Northern Tanzania Safari
6 days
From
$2,600 /person
Ngorongoro Tours
4.5
6 Days Crater & Lake Manyara Safari
6 days
From
$2,000 /person
Serengeti Adventures
4.4
5 Days Northern Circuit Explorer
5 days
From
$2,200 /person
Ngorongoro Crater
10 tours available