Ngorongoro Crater
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

Ngorongoro Crater

10 tours available