Ngorongoro Crater
Overview of Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous safari destinations in the world. It is the largest intact volcanic caldera. It covers 260 km² with walls rising 600 meters high. These features create a natural wildlife sanctuary. This unique ecosystem supports a high concentration of animals, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo). It also supports hippos, zebras, flamingos, and over 500 bird species.
Ngorongoro Crater Reviews
Ngorongoro Crater is consistently rated among the best safari destinations in Africa. Travelers praise its breathtaking crater landscapes, dense wildlife population, and excellent chances of seeing the Big Five in a single game drive. Many visitors describe Ngorongoro as a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience thanks to its dramatic scenery, abundant wildlife, and unique conservation area setting.
Read Full Reviews →Why Visit Ngorongoro Crater?
Best place to see the Big Five in Tanzania Densest population of predators, including lions & leopards Stunning scenery with crater lakes, forests, and Savannah UNESCO-listed site & one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders
Where is Ngorongoro Crater Located?
Ngorongoro Crater is in northern Tanzania. It lies within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA). It is located between Serengeti National Park and Lake Manyara National Park. It is part of the wider Serengeti ecosystem, making it an essential stop on any Northern Tanzania safari itinerary.
How to Get to Ngorongoro Crater:
By Air: You can fly from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or Zanzibar. The flight to Lake Manyara Airstrip takes 1 hour. Then, take a 1.5-hour drive to the crater rim.
By Road: A 3-4 hour drive from Arusha, passing through Lake Manyara and Maasai villages.
Wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater has a high density of wildlife in Africa. This makes it an excellent place for guaranteed game viewing.
The Big Five Safari in Ngorongoro
Lions: Over 70 lions, often seen near Lerai Forest & open plains. Leopards: Found in wooded areas along the crater rim. Elephants: Some of Africa’s largest tuskers roam here. Buffaloes: Large herds in grasslands & swampy areas. Rhinos: One of the few places in Tanzania to see black rhinos.
Other Wildlife Sightings
Hippos: Found in Ngoitokitok Springs & Gorigor Swamp. Flamingos: Huge flocks in Lake Magadi inside the crater. Cheetahs & Hyenas: Spotted in the open plains.
