NGORONGORO CRATER LOCATION: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
The towering walls of Ngorongoro Crater with clouds floating at the top of the rim whilst animals graze on the floor / Image: mariola-grobelska
Where is the Ngorongoro Crater location? It sits smack bang along the famous Northern Circuit route in Tanzania! Placed in the north of the country, specifically west of Lake Manyara, Arusha and south east of the Serengeti - it is a famed spot for tourists worldwide to visit along with Tanzania’s other legendary parks such as Tarangire, the Serengeti and Lake Manyara.
The crater lies within the larger Ngorongoro Conservation Area - a UNESCO World Heritage Site covering over 3,000 square miles, which includes the Crater itself. It's awarded this extraordinary status because of its rich ecological and biodiverse landscapes.
It’s grandeur doesnt end there. Ngorongoro Crater stands proud as one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders, renowned as the world's biggest intact volcanic caldera which was formed over 2 million years ago. The Crater is around 12 miles in diameter and descends around 2,000 ft deep from rim to floor filled with an array of wild animals and species including the Big 5!
The Crater is accessible to everyone around the world, though it does require some planning to reach it. Fortunately, we have created this essential guide to help you find its location, how to get there and why it's such a magnificent place to explore.
Magical 1-Day Ngorongoro Crater Tour
EXPERIENCE A SPECTACULAR TASTE OF TANZANIA IN OUR UNFORGETTABLE 1-DAY SAFARI EXPERIENCE WITHIN THE BREATHTAKING NGORONGORO CRATER.
A hippo saunters along the crater floor in front of a safari vehicle filled with tourists watching its every move / Image: samwel-nsyuka
What is the location of the Ngorongoro Crater?
Simply put, the legendary Ngorongoro Crater is situated in Tanzania’s north, along the famed Northern Circuit route and sits boldly within the greater Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Lets delve a little deeper and look at the specifics of where the crater is exactly located….
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is found in the broader region of Arusha. It lies around 112 miles (180 km) west of the city of Arusha. Arusha is known to be the gateway city for safaris and is an ideal place to start your safari adventure.
Aside from Arusha, there are a few more well-known parks that Ngorongoro Crater is relatively close to. The Serengeti National Park is positioned northwest of the crater (around 60 to 80 km or 37 to 50 miles away) and southeast of Lake Manyara National Park (around 60 to 70 km or 37 to 43 miles away) - so as you can see its in prime position to be enjoyed as part of the renowned Northern Safari Circuit.
The Ngorongoro Crater’s geographical coordinates are approximately 3.2° South latitude and 35.5° East longitude. You may be wondering what these coordinates mean and how they can help you find its location more specifically - well these coordinates identify the crater’s exact location on the globe. The latitude coordinates show that the crater is situated only a few degrees south of the equator, which also indicates that the climate here is typically warm and sunny. The longitude coordinates show that it lies comfortably within the Eastern Hemisphere. The unique mixture of the craters location as well as elevation plays a key part in its thriving environment and biodiversity.
Planning a visit? Here’s how to get to the Ngorongoro Crater
Planning a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater location is fairly easy and you can reach the crater from anywhere in the world. Wherever your starting point may be, you will need to fly into Tanzania. Even though you can opt to fly into any airport in Tanzania, the most ideal airports are Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro Airport, which are the biggest airports that are situated closest to the crater. These airports are optimal for international and domestic flights, with Kilimanjaro Airport being the preferred airport for international arrivals. Both Kilimanjaro and Arusha Airports are favorites for travelers who wish to journey the Northern Safari Circuit as they are close to the group of national parks on that route, for example Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park. From either airport you can either choose to fly to a closer airstrip nearer the crater or drive directly to the crater. We have outlined all transportation options below for you to gain a greater understanding of how best to visit and access the Ngorongoro Crater location, so you can be perfectly prepared for your next adventure to Tanzania!
A rhino, zebra and wildebeest pictured with the crater walls rising high in the background. You can see all of the Big Five here / Image: mwandwe-chileshe
How to get from Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater?
Getting from Arusha to the Ngorongoro Crater is a popular and well traveled route. This is because most travelers start their safari in Arusha and begin with Ngorongoro Crater as one of the first parks to see on the Northern Circuit Route.
The most popular way to travel from Arusha to the crater is by a 4x4 safari vehicle. The trip takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours (112 miles / 180 km) to get there depending on traffic and road conditions. The most favored drive to get to the crater is to take the scenic route, which passes through the villages of Karatu and Mto wa Mbu - both of which are also great locations to start your Northern Circuit Safari if you prefer to stay elsewhere other than Arusha. This drive offers beautiful views of Tanzania’s countryside, glimpses of the Great Rift Valley Escarpment as well as Lake Manyara. Karatu and Mto wa Mbu are also wonderful stops to visit on your route to Ngorongoro Crater if you have the time.
If driving to the crater is too lengthy, charter and domestic flights are also available for a quicker experience. A 25-minute flight from Arusha Airport to Lake Manyara Airstrip will get you to the southeast of the crater, where you will only need to drive 1 hour 10 minutes (46 miles / 74 km) to get to the crater itself. Alternatively you can fly from Arusha Airport directly to Ngorongoro Airstrip which is a 45 minute flight, and lands right by the Ngorongoro Crater headquarters with only a 20 minute car drive to the crater floor to readily start your safari. However, flights to the Ngorongoro Airstrip are less favored because of repeated cloud cover, which means there are no scheduled domestic flights that fly here, only private charter flights. Most people opt to fly to Lake Manyara Airstrip instead, as it has regular domestic flghts and offers a particularly scenic drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area which can be particularly breathtaking.
There are no public buses or trains that go to Ngorongoro Crater, so most people choose to book with a safari company. It's good to know that access to the crater floor is regulated by the parks officials and you can only enter with a licensed guide and/or vehicle so booking with a reputable safari tour operator is your best bet. There are many upsides to having your own safari guide - they will have extensive knowledge of the crater to share with you, get you there comfortably, have insider insights to know where the animals are, as well as take you to the most breathtaking regions for you to enjoy.
How to get from Kilimanjaro to Ngorongoro Crater?
Journeying from Kilimanjaro to Ngorongoro Crater is a common route that a lot of tourists opt to take. Similar to the Arusha / Ngorongoro Crater path, you can choose to travel by land or air. Kilimanjaro is a little further away than Arusha is to the crater, so driving time usually takes around 5.5 to 6.5 hours (260–280 km / 160–175 miles), however the highlight of the drive is that you will generally get to witness the mountainous Ngorongoro Highlands that lie within the greater Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Both Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park are en route from Kilimanjaro to the Ngorongoro Crater location and both make fantastic opportunities to visit. These two parks will break up the long drive as well as offer the experience to encounter two more stunning parks that sit along the Northern Safari Circuit.
Alternatively, if you prefer a quicker journey to the crater, you can take a domestic flight from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) to Lake Manyara Airstrip which takes around 45 minutes. The good news is that there are regular flights that depart from Kilimanjaro that take you to Lake Manyara Airstrip, from there you will only need a 1.5 or 2 hour drive to the craters rim.
Much like Arusha, domestic charter flights are available to get to Ngorongoro Airstrip but because of the regular cloud coverage that lingers over the crater, availability of flights is limited, making this flight path much less used.
How to get from Zanzibar to Ngorongoro Crater?
Traveling from Zanzibar to Ngorongoro Crater is a another favored route amongst many travelers. This particular route is longer but it is doable within a day. The journey itself includes a plane ride as driving the whole way is too lengthy, which is approximately 14-16 hours drive.
Unfortunately, there are no direct flights to the crater from Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ), although you can fly directly to Arusha Airport (ARK), or alternatively to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO). Once landed, a car journey, domestic or charter flight is required to get to the crater.
Flights from Zanzibar to either Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airports take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours and operate daily by local airlines such as Coastal Aviation, Precision Air or Auric Air.
From either airport, travelers drive within a 4x4 safari vehicle to get to the Ngorongoro Conservation area before they reach the crater.
If you want to avoid the long drive, then there are flights available to Lake Manyara Airstrip as well as Ndutu Airstrip from both Arusha and Kilimanjaro Airports. However flight times and frequency vary between the two airports so you will want to research what is available before you book.
The journey from the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar to the enriching landscapes of the crater can take a little while to reach, however the journey is usually smooth and straightforward. Most tourists opt to book with a tour operator, like BornWild as we will take care of your journey, transfers, hotel or lodge, entry fees and permits to get you to the crater stress-free.
Maasai people commonly found in Karatu. Karatu is a vibrant and friendly town that sits on the doorstep of Ngorongoro Crater / Image: sofia-zubiria
What are the closest airports to Ngorongoro Crater?
There are five airports that will connect you conveniently to the Ngorongoro Crater location.
Below we have highlighted the airports in sequence from nearest to furthest away to help you decipher which airport or airstrip is the best for you.
Ngorongoro Crater Airstrip
Distance to the crater: 1.8 miles / 3 km
Drive time: 20 minutes
Notes: Closest airstrip to Ngorongoro Crater and only available for private charter flights - there are no scheduled domestic flights that fly here.
2. Lake Manyara Airstrip
Distance to the crater: 37 miles / 60 km
Drive time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Notes: Lake Manyara Airstrip is the second closest airstrip to fly to in order to get to the Ngorongoro Crater location. There are plenty of scheduled domestic flights that operate all year round.
3. Lake Ndutu Airstrip
Distance to the crater: 55 miles / 85 km
Drive time: 2 - 3 hours
Notes: Ndutu is located in the greater Ngorongoro Conservation Area and is an ideal airstrip to fly into if you are also visiting the Serengeti. The Ndutu region is famous for calving season where many people come to visit during the months of January and February to see the new born babies.
4. Arusha Airport
Distance to the crater: 112 miles / 180 km
Drive time: 3.5 - 4.5 hours
Notes: Arusha is renowned for its reliable domestic flight connections within Tanzania.
5. Kilimanjaro International Airport
Distance to the crater: 170 miles / 270 km
Drive time: 6 - 6.5 hours
Notes: The main international airport hub in Northern Tanzania. From here you can get to the crater by air or by land.
What is so special about the Ngorongoro Crater?
Ngorongoro Crater is one of Tanzania's most famous attractions - it is special because of two reasons. The first is, because it is ranked as being one of the world's natural wonders and the second, is because it is the world's oldest intact and unfilled volcanic caldera.
Lets talk about the Ngorongoro Crater size so you can get an idea of how big it is. The crater is shaped like a sunken volcanic bowl expanding around 12 miles (19 km) in diameter and 600 meters in height, from the crater rim to the crater floor. The bowl-shaped enclosure creates a standalone enclosed ecosystem that isn’t found anywhere else in the world. This unique ecosystem within the basin plays an important role in supporting its rich biodiversity, which the crater is famous for.
In simple terms, the craters' enclosed environment and circulating climate contribute to its fertile landscapes - from wetlands, acacia woodlands to grasslands. These regions along with permanent water sources, support and sustain a high concentration of species of wildlife all year round.
The number of wildlife species that inhabit this region is impressive. Surprisingly, there are more than 25,000 large species of animals that live within the Ngorongoro Crater park. Your chances of seeing the Big Five (which includes lions, buffalo, elephants, leopards and the critically endangered black rhino) are high, as well as spotting around 500 bird species. Because of the large number of animals within this enclosed natural area, you will have a great opportunity to see many different species of wildlife - that's why our Ngorongoro Crater 1-Day Tour is so popular. The weather is also fantastic all year round with mild and sunny temperatures which add to the craters highlights. Even though the craters towering walls prevent most animals from venturing out of this contained environment, the animals that inhabit the crater enjoy a thriving existence.
The Ngorongoro region is drenched in rich and fascinating history, from how the crater was formed to how the crater's location was where some of the earliest evidence of human fossilized bones were found by scientists. You will find more about this at the Olduvai Gorge museum which is located within the Ngorongoro Conservation area.
The last reason why the Ngorongoro Crater is so special is because of its naturally impressive beauty. Whatever way you look at the crater, from the rim or from the crater floor with its towering walls surrounding you, the crater is simply breathtaking. The fusion of prime game viewing, rich history and jaw-dropping scenery, makes the Ngorongoro Crater one of the most coveted places to go on safari in Tanzania.
Three elephants amble along the crater floor. Most animals that live within the crater walls are happy enough that they never want to leave / Image: matthew-spiteri
What is the closest city to the Ngorongoro Crater?
The closest city to the Ngorongoro Crater is Arusha, which is situated around 112 miles away (or 180 km). The city of Arusha is a great starting point for any Northern Circuit Safari but also an ideal starting point for the Crater too.
However, whilst Arusha is the closest city, there are smaller towns that are much closer to the Ngorongoro Crater location.
The town of Karatu is only 12 miles (20 km) away from the entrance of Ngorongoro Crater - Loduare Gate. Karatu is a popular spot amongst travelers due to its proximity to the crater as it sits right on its doorstep. It is a wonderfully enriching region offering peaceful surroundings, scenic views, affordable lodgings and a cooler climate.
Mto wa Mbu is the second nearest village that is located around 43 miles away (70 km) from the Ngorongoro Crater location. Known for its beauty, rich culture and 120 tribes living within the region, the town offers incredible local food experiences, picturesque cycling routes, a relaxing atmosphere all whilst boasting an authentic Tanzania charm and serving as a key destination along the Northern Safari Circuit.
Though both these villages are much closer, Arusha remains the best gateway city for people far and wide traveling to the Ngorongoro region.
How big is Ngorongoro Crater?
The Ngorongoro Crater size is truly impressive. This expansive unbroken volcanic caldera spans around 12 miles (19 km) in width from rim to rim. The crater floor stretches across an area of about 102 miles ( 264 square km) - this is why it is known as the world's biggest intact volcanic caldera. The crater walls are lofty and steep and reach heights of anywhere between 400 to 600 meters (1,300 - 2,000 feet) above the crater floor forming a natural sanctuary.
The elevation of the Craters basin is around 1,800 meters (5,900 ft) above sea level. The Ngorongoro Crater size is not just expansive but deep.
You might be wondering if animals can actually escape the crater walls being so steep? They can, but with difficulty. The crater is not fenced or enclosed, so animals can roam in and out of it at free will, however the walls are covered with dense forest as well as being very high. Some animals like elephants, lions and buffalos do wander in and out of the crater with curiosity. Although, because of the towering terrain and the fact that the crater offers plenty of food, water and rich grazings - most animals choose not to leave and stay contentedly within the confines of the crater walls.
Taking into account the towering walls and the overall Ngorongoro Crater size, how do vehicles make their way down to the crater floor to safari? There are two designated roads that wind down the crater's lofty walls. One road to get into the crater and one to get out of the crater. The Seneto Descent Road is there to enter the crater and the one-way Lemala Ascent Road is used to exit the crater. These roads are known to be pretty steep and narrow, hence them being only one-way roads - they are also unpaved, meaning that careful driving is essential thats why only registered tour operators and 4x4 safari vehicles are allowed to drive into the crater. The two roads are there to ensure minimal impact to the craters environment.
History of Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Craters' history is not only fascinating, interesting but rather lengthy, as its story began two to three million years ago. The crater was famously created through a huge volcano that erupted in Northern Tanzania, which then collapsed in on itself. This collapsed bowl-like shape formed the crater that we see today.
Over the course of many years - the crater blossomed and filled with forests, lakes, streams and grasslands, creating a rich self-contained ecosystem that attracts and inhabits thousands of wildlife species as well as winged species, making it a haven for both animals and birds.
The Ngorongoro Conservation area is also famous for its human history. The Olduvai Gorge which is located in the greater Ngorongoro Conservation area, is a well known archaeological site where scientists discovered some of the first human remains. These discoveries have contributed to vital information into early human evolution, gaining the nickname “The Cradle of Mankind”.
The legendary Maasai Tribe have lived within the Ngorongoro Crater location for hundreds of years, and when the Ngorongoro Conservation area was created in 1959, it was planned to preserve the wildlife species, protect the regions thriving biodiversity as well as continue the traditional way of life of the Maasai people.
The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its natural beauty as well as its rich variety of wildlife species. It is also marked as having a profound link to human history and culture. The Ngorongoro Crater remains as one of the only places that offers such an extraordinary experience coupled with stunning scenery where both nature and history connect in a special way.
Two agile cheetahs roam the grasslands of the crater looking out into the distance / Image: dmitrii-zhodzishskii
More About The Ngorongoro Crater Elevation
The Ngorongoro Crater elevation is one of the most interesting features about this natural wonder.
Elevation indicates the height of a point above sea level, which means the elevation of the Ngorongoro Crater’s rim is around 2,200 - 2,400 meters (7,200 to 7,900 ft) above sea level. And the crater floor is approximately 600 meters (2,000 ft) below that.
The unique contrast in elevation creates the dramatic landscapes that you see within the craters enclosed bowl shaped space. Because of the high walls, there is a significant difference in climates that you experience from rim to floor. The high elevation of the craters rim results in cooler temperatures, cloudier conditions as well as more rainfall. Whilst the crater floor receives warmer, more moderate temperatures all year round.
Because of the differences in altitude and climate, the craters shape can support a varied range of thriving ecosystems. The variants of elevation influences animals, vegetation and weather conditions - making the Ngorongoro Crater one of the richest biodiverse environments in the whole of the African continent.
Where is the main entry point to Ngorongoro Crater?
The main entry point to Ngorongoro Crater is the Loduare Gate. The Loduare Gate is very close to the town of Karatu and is the main entry point to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which includes the crater. Once you pass through the gates, you will travel along a picturesque winding road through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the crater rim. Once you reach the rim, you will descend to the crater floor to start your safari. Loduare Gate is the gateway where park officials will charge entry fees and check passports and ID before you enter the crater.
Loduare Gate isn't the only entry point into the broader Ngorongoro Conservation Area, however it is the most used. This is because it is the only entrance for visitors to enter the crater. Rules are much stricter in the Ngorongoro Crater in comparison to other national parks in Tanzania. Only registered tour operating vehicles are permitted to enter the crater floor, and self-driving visitors must be accompanied by a licensed guide. These strict rules are in place because of three main reasons - to protect and conserve the crater's ecosystem, to ensure safe driving due to challenging terrain and conditions, as well as the lack of emergency support available within the crater.
The other gates that offer access into the greater Ngorongoro Conservation Area are Naabi Hill Gate which is closer to the Serengeti National Park or Lemuta Gate, situated on the northeastern rim of the crater - both of which provide access to different sides of the conservation area, but neither offer direct entry into the crater itself. Loduare Gate is the only entry point for visitors to enter the crater so, for anyone wishing to do a Ngorongoro Crater Safari - Loduare Gate is the gate you will be heading to.
A lone safari vehicle drives along the vast expanse of the crater floor. If you’re interested in how big the crater is - read this article to find out / Image: yun-hsiang-wang
Is the Ngorongoro Conservation area worth visiting?
The Ngorongoro Conservation area is undoubtedly worth visiting, because the region offers such a rich and versatile experience that stretches far beyond the crater. The conservation area boasts a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems native to this region. You can expect to find soda lakes, montane forests, vast savannas and volcanic highlands here - all of which are a scenic treat for anyone to behold. What's unique about the Ngorongoro Conservation area is that it is a region where wildlife and people live alongside each other in harmony. Specifically the Maasai tribe who have a big presence within the area. Ndutu and Gol Mountains located within the conservation area are less-visited than the crater but provide their own charm and peaceful solitude that the crater cannot offer. Both locations feature incredible birdwatching and game viewing opportunities where you can even see the Big Five!
Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, Empakaai and Olmoti craters contribute to the dramatic scenery of the Ngorongoro Conservation area as well as being excellent hiking opportunities for the more adventurous soul. Additionally, the greater conservation area is home to the historical Olduvai Gorge and Laetoli, two very important sites where ancient human fossils were found.
In short, the Ngorongoro Conservation area is a compelling region to visit. Its mixture of wildlife, history, culture and biodiversity, makes it a truly fascinating place to see.
Three flamingoes standing in a sparkling water source in Ngorongoro Crater / Image: audric-wonkam
Where are the Ngorongoro highlands and are they worth seeing?
The impressive Ngorongoro Highlands are a set of dramatically spectacular mountains that are found in the greater northwestern Ngorongoro Conservation area. They are definitely worth seeing! These groups of mountains were formed by a sequence of extinct volcanos created by the geological activity of the East African Rift. The towering mountains are not always seen en-route to the crater, in fact to fully experience the highlands, you would have to include it within your safari itinerary.
What is so impressive about the Ngorongoro Highlands is that the mountains are a striking contrast to the flatter surrounding plains and savannahs in the area, making them truly breathtaking to see. A few of the well-known peaks are called Olmoti Crater, Empakaai Crater and Lolmalasin - which is Tanzania’s third highest mountain. These mountains are dressed in thick lush forests which roll off the mountain tops creating a vibrant green hue. You will almost always find misty clouds at the tops of the peaks giving them a very scenic appeal. If you are interested in visiting any of these elevations, they are situated off the main route to the crater and are best explored with a guide on foot.
The climate is much cooler and moderate on these mountains because of the elevation, which spans from around 2,200 to around 3,000 meters above sea level. This height also supports a very unique ecosystem than that of the lower flatter ground that you see at the base of the mountains.
Hiking the Ngorongoro Highlands environment offers many delights from sweeping scenic vistas to rare sightings of Kilimanjaro and Lake Natron which have been seen on clear days. The Ngorongoro Highlands offer a peaceful and calming experience away from the heavy tourism of the crater. Here, you can experience a remote part of Tanzania that showcases Olmoti Craters stunning slopes, the emerald hues of Empakaai Crater or simply enjoying the breathtaking views of the mountainous region from afar. The Ngorongoro Highlands offer an incredible and rewarding atmospheric adventure.
Ngorongoro & Serengeti: Two Legends, One Unforgettable Adventure
Why not combine two of Tanzania’s most iconic locations on your next journey—the incredible Ngorongoro Crater and the untamed plains of the Serengeti
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