Ngorongoro
Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the highlands of Tanzania, is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera.
Formed by a massive volcanic eruption, this natural amphitheatre spans about 260 square kilometres and is a testament to the planet’s tumultuous geologic past. With its rich soil and abundant water, the crater floor sustains diverse wildlife, offering one of Africa’s best wildlife-viewing experiences.
Within this natural enclosure, you’ll find an astounding concentration of fauna. The crater is home to the densest population of lions in the world, alongside other members of the “Big Five” – elephant, rhino, buffalo, and the elusive leopard. This is one of the few places in Africa where you can see the endangered black rhino in its natural habitat.
The Ngorongoro Crater also supports large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle, which attract predators such as hyenas and jackals. The crater’s soda lake, Lake Magadi, draws flocks of flamingos, adding a splash of colour to the landscape. Whether it’s the striking landscapes or the unparalleled wildlife encounters, visiting the Ngorongoro Crater provides a unique and unforgettable African safari experience.
caldera/crater
This is the main attraction found in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
This caldera/crater was formed millions of years ago; the word crater is a mistake made by book writers and printers because the crater is a slight depression formed on top of a mountain due to volcanic eruption, and there is no life in the crater, while caldera is a significant depression formed when a mountain collapses. The total space of the Ngorongoro Caldera is about 290km square and 16-17km across it. The glow lies about 610 meters below the rim, and here the soda lake can be seen, and munge river flows from the Highlands of the Ngorongoro to the caldera.

June to September
Most of the year – July to March
8,292 km² / 3,202 mi²
1,027-3,522 m / 3,369-11,555 ft