Menu
Ngorongoro Crater
Reviews
0.0/5
Ngorongoro Crater, Craterul Ngorongoro, Cratère du Ngorongoro

Overview

The Ngorongoro Crater is a natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Tanzania. This breathtaking caldera resulted from a massive volcanic eruption millions of years ago and is one of Africa’s most iconic landmarks.

The Ngorongoro Crater is nestled within the larger Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which spans over 8,000 square kilometres. The crater measures approximately 20 kilometres in diameter and offers a spectacular setting for wildlife encounters. Surrounded by towering walls, the crater floor is a self-contained ecosystem teeming with wildlife and stunning natural beauty.

The location of the Ngorongoro Crater adds to its allure. It is conveniently situated near popular safari destinations such as the Serengeti National Park and Lake Manyara, making it an essential stop on many safari itineraries.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is also rich in cultural significance. The Maasai people have lived in harmony with the wildlife and the land for centuries. Visitors to the area can learn about their traditional way of life, witness their vibrant ceremonies, and gain insights into their deep connection with the natural world.

Exploring the Ngorongoro Crater with experienced guides from Timon Safaris allows visitors to maximise their wildlife encounters. Their in-depth knowledge of the area and its inhabitants enhances the safari experience, providing valuable insights into the behaviours and ecological dynamics of the wildlife.

The Ngorongoro Crater is a true natural wonder, offering an immersive wildlife experience within a stunning geological setting. From the abundance of animals to the breathtaking landscapes, visiting this remarkable destination is a journey into the heart of wild Africa.

Wildlife

The Ngorongoro Crater boasts an extraordinary concentration of wildlife, earning it the reputation as Africa's "Garden of Eden." The crater's unique ecosystem supports an incredible array of animals, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Large herds of herbivores roam the vast grassy plains of the crater floor. These include wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and elands, which provide a rich food source for predators within the crater. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs can often be spotted lounging in the shade or on the prowl, ready for a hunt. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places in Africa to witness the drama of predator-prey interactions.

Elephants, buffaloes, and black rhinos also call the Ngorongoro Crater home, adding to its diverse wildlife population. These magnificent creatures can often be seen grazing or wallowing in muddy pools. The crater's dense forests provide sanctuary for various primates, including baboons and vervet monkeys, swinging through the trees with agility and curiosity.

The Ngorongoro Crater is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 500 avian species recorded. Flamingos create a stunning pink hue on the soda lake, while raptors soar above in search of prey. From graceful storks and herons to colourful bee-eaters and weavers, the crater offers endless opportunities to observe and appreciate the diverse birdlife.

Common Animals

Probability of seeing various animals

Black Backed Jackal

Black Backed Jackal

90%
Jackal

Golden Jackal

90%
Black Rhino

Black Rhino

50%
Leopard

Leopard

20%
Caracal

Caracal

20%
Banded Mongoose

Banded Mongoose

40%
Serval

Serval

40%
Buffalo

Buffalo

100%
Hyena

Hyena

100%
Lion

Lion

95%
Zebra

Zebra

100%
Waterbuck

Waterbuck

80%
Dik-Dik

Dik-Dik

40%
Elephant

Elephant

80%
Wildebeest

Wildebeest

100%
Eland

Common Eland

100%
Bushbuck

Bushbuck

60%
Hipo

Hippo

100%
Warthog

Warthog

100%
Grant Gazelle

Grant Gazelle

100%
Thomson Gazelle

Thomson Gazelle

100%
Hartebeest

Hartebeest

100%
Topi

Topi

100%

Common Birds

Probability of seeing various birds

Marabou Stork

Marabou Stork

100%
Yellow Billed Stork

Yellow-billed Stork

100%
White Stork

White Stork

50%
Black Stork

Black Stork

100%
Saddle Billed Stork

Saddle-billed Stork

100%
Egyptian Goose

Egyptian Goose

100%
Ostrich

Ostrich

100%
White Backed Vulture

White Backed Vulture

95%
Lappet Faced Vulture

Lappet Faced Vulture

95%
Ruppels Vulture

Ruppels Vulture

100%
Black Masked Weaver

Black Masked Weaver

100%
Rufous Tailed Weaver

Rufous-tailed Weaver

100%
Black Kite

Black Kite

100%
Augur Buzzard

Augur Buzzard

100%
Towny Eagle

Towny Eagle

75%
Secretary Bird

Secretary Bird

75%
Gray Crown Crane

Gray Crown Crane

100%
Martial Eagle

Martial Eagle

60%
Superb Starling

Superb Starling

100%
Kori Bustard

Kori Bustard

100%
Black Bellied Bustard

Black-bellied Bustard

100%
White Bellied Bustard

White-bellied Bustard

100%

Location on map

Reviews

Ngorongoro Crater

{{ reviewsTotal }}{{ options.labels.singularReviewCountLabel }}
{{ reviewsTotal }}{{ options.labels.pluralReviewCountLabel }}
{{ options.labels.newReviewButton }}
{{ userData.canReview.message }}
Area / Size
8,292 km² / 3,202 mi²
Altitude
1,027-3,522 m / 3,369-11,555 ft
Best time to go
June to September
High season
Most of the year – July to March
Low season
April and May
Best weather
June to October
Worst weather
March and April
Travel Time
  • Arusha to Ngorongoro Conservation Area: 3 hours
  • Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Serengeti National Park:  2 hours drive.
  • Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Lake Manyara: 1-hour drive.
  • Ngorongoro to Tarangire: 2 hours’ drive

Optional Activities

that can be done in

Ngorongoro Crater

Maasai Village Visit

Masai Village Visit

Walking Safari

Walking Safari

Olduvai Gorge Museum

Olduvai Gorge Museum

Accommodations used by

our tourists in

Ngorongoro Crater

Lions Paw Ngorongoro
5/5
 Lodge
 Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
4/5
 Lodge
 Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp
3/5
 Tented Camp
 Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge
2/5
 Lodge
 Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Mrimba Palm Hotel

Mrimba Palm Hotel boasts a beautiful setting, offering a refreshingly serene environment from the hustle and bustle of the busy Arusha City Center. Boasting a calming silence that offers total relaxation from the busy day after a long trip to Arusha or just a peaceful time to reflect on all the marvelous experiences of the day. Our restaurant encompasses a classic catchy decor, a masterclass display of beauty with pine roofing on the inside, and beautiful tabletops and chairs from the rare and affluent Mahogany hardwood. The Mrimba Palm Restaurant offers you an amazing experience during meals; dinner, lunch, snacking, and lunch with a wide range of drinks on order.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com

Planet Lodge Arusha

Featuring an outdoor pool and restaurant, Planet Lodge is located in Arusha. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi in public areas. The African-style chalets have a private bathroom, air conditioning, and mosquito net. Extras include a telephone, towels, and linen. The Planet Lodge restaurant serves international and local cuisine. The bar offers a selection of drinks. Guests can relax by the poolside and in the lush garden while enjoying Mount Meru’s views. The lodge is a 1-hour drive from the Arusha National Park and within 48 km from the Kilimanjaro Airport. Free private parking is available on-site.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com

Karama Lodge

With pool views, Karama Lodge is situated in Arusha and has a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, a bar, a garden, and a year-round outdoor pool. Both WiFi and private parking are accessible at the lodge free of charge. There is a private bathroom with a shower in all units, along with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Guests at Karama Lodge can enjoy a buffet breakfast. Old German Boma is 5 km from the accommodation, while Njiro Complex is 6 km from the property. The lodge is a 1-hour drive from the Arusha National Park and within 48 km from the Kilimanjaro Airport. Free private parking is available on-site.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com

Gran Melia Arusha

Located in Arusha, 2.6 km from Old German Boma, Gran Melia Arusha provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can make use of a bar. The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a kettle, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a balcony, and a private bathroom with a shower. Every room is equipped with a coffee machine, while selected rooms have a kitchen with a fridge. All units in Gran Melia Arusha are equipped with bathrobes and an iPod docking station. A continental breakfast is available daily at the accommodation. Gran Melia Arusha offers 5-star accommodation with a sauna and terrace. Arusha Central Market is 3.1 km from the hotel, while the Uhuru monument is 3.1 km away.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com

Marera Valley Lodge

Marera Valley Lodge, located on the outskirts of Karatu town about midway between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater, is close to the village of Rhotia. Convenient to the main road, this elegant lodge has stunning views over the valley to the hills beyond. We look forward to your visit when we can offer you true Tanzanian hospitality and a warm welcome. Our large main building has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating areas with views of the pool and the beautiful nearby hills. Enjoy a drink or an alfresco lunch on the spacious verandah overlooking the pool. Relax in the bar and lounge area with a cozy fire in the cooler months and take your meals in the large dining room. You’ll find the welcoming reception area and gift shop here as well. The Rosemary Spa is located in a quiet corner of the garden and offers massage and other treatments for your relaxation. The cottages are set in lush tropical gardens and a walking path circumnavigates the extensive organic vegetable garden.

+255 683 085 572
P.O. Box 16949 | Arusha | Tanzania
info@timonsafaris.com