NGORONGORO CRATER SAFARI IN NORTHERN TANZANIA: A VISITOR GUIDE
The towering walls of Ngorongoro Crater with clouds floating at the top of the rim whilst animals graze on the floor / Image: mariola-grobelska
The Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest intact volcanic caldera that was formed more than 2 million years ago and is found on Tanzania's famous Northern Circuit. Brimming with varied wildlife, including all of the Big Five, it's one of the country's must-visit safari destinations.
We've created this essential guide to help you plan your trip to Ngorongoro Crater. It explains why the crater is such a magnificent place to explore and covers everything you need to know before you visit. Here, you'll learn about the different wildlife you can see, the types of safaris available, how to get there, and plenty of practical tips to help you make the most of your safari.
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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 van filled with tourists watching its every move / Image: samwel-nsyuka
What is so special about the Ngorongoro Crater?
The Ngorongoro Crater is the largest unfilled volcanic caldera on Earth and a remarkable geological formation that has been inactive for millions of years. It's home to more than 25,000 large animals, including the Big Five, within a single enclosed basin, many of which are easily spotted on a game drive. Spanning around 12 miles (19.5 km), this unique, self-contained ecosystem is one of the main reasons many travelers come to the north of Tanzania for a safari.
But that’s not the only reason that makes Ngorongoro Crater special. Here are some important facts you should know before visiting.
The crater's walls rise roughly 600 meters from the floor to the rim.
Its enclosed environment and circulating climate contribute to its fertile landscapes, from wetlands and savanna woodlands to grasslands.
The area is managed by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA).
The towering walls help keep many animals within the basin, creating a protected environment where they can live comfortably alongside one another without disturbance.
Here visitors can find some of the earliest fossilized human bones at the Olduvai Gorge Museum.
Your chances of seeing the Big Five (lions, buffalo, elephants, leopards, and the black rhino) on our 1-day Ngorongoro Crater tour are high. Plus, around 500 bird species can be found here, especially at Lake Magadi.
How big is Ngorongoro Crater?
This unbroken volcanic formation spans 10 to 12 miles (16–19 km) from rim to rim, with a floor spanning about 102 square miles (264 sq km), making it the world's largest caldera. The walls are lofty and steep, reaching up to 610 meters (2,000 feet) above the floor, and the basin itself sits around 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) above sea level.
The crater isn't fenced, so animals can come and go freely, though with difficulty given the dense forested walls. Most choose to remain inside the walls, thanks to the amount of food, water, and rich grazing inside. Giraffes are a notable exception, though, as they can't be found down in the crater, since the steep walls make it an unsuitable habitat.
What Is the Elevation of the Ngorongoro Crater?
The Crater rim sits around 2,200 to 2,400 meters (7,217 to 7,874 feet) above sea level, while the floor lies roughly 600 meters below that. The unique contrast in elevation creates the dramatic landscapes that you see within the crater's enclosed bowl-shaped space.
Because of the high walls, there is a significant difference in climate that you experience from the rim to the floor. The high elevation of the crater's rim results in cooler temperatures, cloudier conditions, as well as more rainfall. On the other hand, the crater floor receives warmer, more moderate temperatures all year round.
These shifts in altitude and climate support a wide range of thriving ecosystems, making Ngorongoro one of the most biodiverse environments on the entire African continent.
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What is the history of Ngorongoro Crater?
The Ngorongoro Crater formed two and a half million years ago, when a huge volcano in Northern Tanzania erupted and then collapsed in on itself, creating the bowl-like shape we see today. Over the following years, it filled with forests, lakes, streams, and grasslands, growing into the rich, self-contained ecosystem that now attracts thousands of animals and birds.
The wider conservation area is equally famous for its role in human evolution. Olduvai Gorge, a well-known archaeological site within Ngorongoro, is where scientists discovered some of the first human remains. This earned the region the nickname 'The Cradle of Mankind.'
Today, the Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its natural beauty as well as its wide variety of wildlife species. It is also marked as having a profound link to human history and culture, and remains one of the few World Heritage Sites that offer such an extraordinary experience.
What Does Ngorongoro Mean?
Deriving from the Maasai language, the word Ngorongoro comes from the bell wrapped around a cow’s neck that leads the herd. It allowed cattle herders to know where their cows were and how fast they were moving, helping them monitor the herd. As the cows moved, the sound of 'ngor, ngor' could be heard, and this is how the local Maasai thought of the name Ngorongoro.
Maasai people commonly found in Karatu. Karatu is a vibrant and friendly town that sits on the doorstep of Ngorongoro Crater location / Image: sofia-zubiria
Who Are the Maasai People of Ngorongoro, and How Do They Coexist with Wildlife?
The Maasai are a tribe that has lived in the greater Ngorongoro area for centuries, practicing traditional livestock grazing alongside wildlife while maintaining strong cultural and spiritual ties to the land. Their way of life proves that human-wildlife coexistence is possible, even when the reality is complicated.
Growing human populations and changing climate patterns can push livestock into areas where wild animals depend on the same resources. This can sometimes lead to predator attacks and create challenges that affect both wildlife and local livelihoods. Even so, the Maasai have found a way to maintain a balanced relationship with their environment.
Their cattle graze across the same open grasslands used by zebras and wildebeest, while causing minimal disruption to migration and feeding routes. Over generations, they have developed a deep respect for nature and use non-lethal methods to deter predators rather than hunting them.
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Where is the Ngorongoro Crater?
The Ngorongoro Crater sits in northern Tanzania, along the famed Northern Circuit route, within the greater Ngorongoro Conservation Area, about 112 miles (180 km) west of Arusha. Arusha is known as the gateway city most travelers use to start their safari, so you'll likely set off from here when you visit.
Aside from Arusha, there are a few more well-known parks that Ngorongoro Crater is relatively close to. The Serengeti is positioned northwest of the crater (around 37 to 50 miles or 60 to 80 km away), and Lake Manyara lies to the southeast (around 37 to 43 miles or 60 to 70 km away).
The Ngorongoro Crater's geographic coordinates lie around 3.2° South latitude and 35.5° East longitude. Their purpose is simply to identify where the crater is on Earth.
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 position of the crater as well as its elevation plays a key part in its thriving environment and biodiversity conservation.
Where Is the Main Entry Point to Ngorongoro Crater?
The main entry point is Loduare Gate, which is close to the town of Karatu and is the only entrance offering direct access into the crater itself. Once you pass through with your guide, park officials will check that you've paid the entry fees and have valid ID before you travel the picturesque winding road toward the crater rim, ready to descend to the floor.
You should be aware that the entry rules here are stricter than in most Tanzanian national parks. Only registered tour-operating vehicles may enter the crater floor, and self-driving visitors must be accompanied by a licensed guide. This is largely down to protecting the ecosystem, helping visitors manage genuinely challenging terrain, and the lack of emergency support available within the crater.
There are other gates too, like Naabi Hill Gate, closer to the Serengeti, and Lemuta Gate, on the northeastern rim. These provide access to different parts of the wider conservation area, but neither leads directly into the crater.
Vehicles can only reach the crater via two designated one-way roads. There's only one road in and one out: the Seneto Descent Road for entry and the Lemala Ascent Road for exit. Both are steep, narrow, and unpaved, which is why only registered tour operators and 4x4 safari jeeps are permitted.
A map of the greater Ngorongoro Crater location - here you can see the main entry point - Lodoare Gate, as well as the less used Lemala Gate. Click to open the map!
What Is the Closest City to the Ngorongoro Crater?
Arusha is the closest city, situated around 112 miles (180 km) away, and it's a great starting point for any Northern Circuit safari, including a trip to the crater. That said, a couple of smaller towns sit even closer to Ngorongoro's doorstep.
The town of Karatu is only 12.5 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, situated approximately 43.5 miles (70 km) away from the Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its beauty, rich culture, and 120 tribes living within the region, the town offers incredible local food experiences, picturesque cycling routes, and a relaxing atmosphere.
What Are the Closest Airports to Ngorongoro Crater?
1. 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. There are plenty of scheduled domestic flights that operate all year round.
3. Lake Ndutu Airstrip
Distance to the crater: 53 miles / 85 km
Drive time: 2 - 3 hours
Notes: Ndutu is located within the greater Ngorongoro Conservation Area and is an ideal airstrip to fly into if you are also visiting the Serengeti ecosystem.
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: 168 miles / 270 km
Drive time: 4.5 - 5.5 hours
Notes: The main international airport hub in Northern Tanzania. From here, you can get to the crater by air or by land.
How to Get to the Ngorongoro Crater
You'll need to fly into one of Tanzania's airports first, ideally via Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro Airport, the two largest options closest to the crater. Some people may have to transit via Dar es Salaam before heading north, depending on connection availability, so you may have to account for this extra leg.
These airports are optimal for both international and domestic flights, with Kilimanjaro Airport being the preferred option for international arrivals. They're close to the group of national parks on that route, like Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara.
From either of them, you can choose to fly to a smaller airstrip closer to the crater or drive directly to the crater.
Ngorongoro Crater from the steep towering walls. Its vastness filled with exceptional animal sightings / Image: mtsjrdl
How to get from Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater?
The drive from Arusha takes around 3 to 4 hours (99.5 miles to 118 miles/160 to 190 km) by 4x4 safari vehicle, though the total time and distance vary based on the gate you need to reach. Many travel via the scenic villages of Karatu and Mto wa Mbu, a popular, well-traveled route since most safaris begin in Arusha, with Ngorongoro as one of the first stops.
If the drive sounds too long for you, charter and domestic flights are faster. 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. This is a 45-minute flight that lands right by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Headquarters, with only a 20-minute drive to the crater floor.
Be aware, though, that flights to the Ngorongoro Airstrip are less favored because of repeated cloud cover, which means there are no scheduled domestic flights here, only private charter flights. Most people opt to fly to Lake Manyara Airstrip instead. It has regular domestic flights and offers a particularly scenic route through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which is breathtaking.
There are no public buses or trains that go to Ngorongoro Crater, hence why most people choose to book with a safari company. Having your own guide comes with many benefits. They have extensive knowledge of the crater, can share fascinating insights about the wildlife and landscape, ensure you travel comfortably, and take you to the best locations for animal sightings.
A rhino, zebra and wildebeest pictured with the crater walls rising high in the background. You can see all of the Big Five throughout the Ngorongoro Crater location / Image: mwandwe-chileshe
How to get from Kilimanjaro to Ngorongoro Crater?
Driving from Kilimanjaro takes around 5 to 6.5 hours (143 to 174 miles/230 to 280 km), a little longer than from Arusha. However, one of the big benefits of the drive is that you will 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 and offer fantastic opportunities to visit. These two parks will break up the long drive as well as offer the experience of encountering 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. Regular flights depart from Kilimanjaro that take you directly to Lake Manyara Airstrip; from there, you will only need a 1.5- or 2-hour drive to the crater's rim.
Much like Arusha, domestic charter flights are available to Ngorongoro Airstrip, but due to the regular cloud cover that lingers over the crater, they are limited.
A safari truck roaming the Ngorongoro Crater floor to observe its fascinating wild animals / Image: trisha-lt
How to get from Zanzibar to Ngorongoro Crater?
There are no direct flights from Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ) to the crater, so you have to fly to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport first. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours with local airlines such as Coastal Aviation, Precision Air, or Auric Air. From either airport, travelers typically drive in a 4x4 safari vehicle to get to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area before reaching the crater.
If you want to avoid the long drive, flights are also available to Lake Manyara Airstrip and Ndutu Airstrip from both Arusha and Kilimanjaro Airports. However, flight times and frequency vary between the two airports, so it’s best to research availability before booking.
Most tourists choose to book with a tour operator like BornWild, as we take care of your journey, transfers, hotel or lodge accommodations, entry fees, and permits, ensuring a stress-free experience to the crater.
Two agile cheetahs roam the short grass plains of the crater looking out into the distance / Image: dmitrii-zhodzishskii
How to get from Nairobi to Ngorongoro Crater?
You have two main options from Nairobi: either drive or fly. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Nairobi’s Wilson Airport have a few direct routes to northern Tanzania, giving you plenty of flight options.
There are regional flights you can book from Wilson Airport directly to Arusha Airport, operated by airlines such as HOP! or Flightlink. Fares typically start at around $135 one way.
From Jomo Kenyatta Airport, you can fly direct to Kilimanjaro Airport with Kenya Airways, Precision Air, or Air Tanzania. Fares can be anywhere from $139 to $300 for a one-way ticket. Both flights take around one hour.
Once you arrive in Arusha or Kilimanjaro, you can opt to stay overnight or continue your journey on a short charter flight to the Manyara Airstrip.
If you want to go by road, the drive takes around 7 to 8 hours. There are many reliable shuttle bus services you can book that take you from Nairobi to Arusha, costing $30 per person per way. During this drive, you will cross the Namanga border from Kenya to Tanzania and witness an array of changing landscapes that can be particularly interesting.
Once you get to Arusha, the shuttle service will drop you off at your Ngorongoro Crater lodge. It's recommended to stay overnight before embarking on the second leg of your journey to the Ngorongoro Crater, as the drive is particularly lengthy.
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What to Expect on a Safari to the Ngorongoro Crater
A safari to the Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in Africa, offering a great opportunity to see all the Big Five in a single day.
The crater is typically open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, but it's recommended to arrive early to make the most of your time. However, it's possible to enter at any point during the day and still enjoy an incredible experience.
Early mornings and late afternoons are the most active times for wildlife, as temperatures are cooler and animals are livelier and more visible then. During the warmer midday hours, animals often rest in the shade.
When you arrive, your guide will take care of all entry formalities before beginning the descent. The drive from the rim to the crater floor takes around 20 to 30 minutes and brings you along a steep, winding track.
While the Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places in Africa for the Big Five, it's hard to predict what animals you'll see. If you have a favorite species you would like to focus on, you should mention it to your guide, who will drive towards the areas where they usually stay.
You may also see wildebeest and zebras, but, interestingly, giraffes are hard to spot in the crater because their primary food source is limited to acacia trees and they face navigating the steep crater walls. Many travelers also have the endangered black rhino on their list. With only around 30 of them living in the crater, they are also trickier to find.
Types of Safaris in the Ngorongoro Crater
Game drives, walking safaris, birdwatching safaris, and photography safaris are the best types you can take to explore the Ngorongoro Crater.
Here is what you can expect on each of them.
Game Drives
The most popular option, conducted in a 4x4 safari vehicle with an experienced guide, allows you to explore the crater and its wildlife comfortably.
Walking Safaris
Walking safaris are not allowed within the crater, but you can take one on the crater's rim. These outings are always led by an armed ranger for your safety. It's a fascinating way to learn about the ecology and history of the crater, as well as spot wildlife down below.
Birdwatching Safaris
Ideal for nature enthusiasts, particularly around Lake Magadi, where a wide variety of bird species can be observed.
Photography Safaris
Designed specifically for photographers, these safaris provide the space and flexibility needed for capturing exceptional wildlife images, often with customized vehicles and expert guidance.
Key Areas to Explore in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Crater Floor
The crater floor is where the majority of wildlife congregates. The open plains and grasslands make it easier to spot animals, including large herds of zebra and wildebeest, as well as predators such as lions.
Gorigor Swamp
Swamps are vital to the crater’s ecosystem and attract a wide range of wildlife. Gorigor Swamp is particularly known for its resident hippos, and elephants are also frequently seen here enjoying the water-rich environment.
The Crater Rim
Encircling the crater, the lush forested rim offers a completely different landscape. Leopards are oftentimes spotted here. Early mornings usually bring a soft mist that creates an atmospheric and photogenic setting.
Lerai Forest
The Lerai Forest is one of the most recognizable places within the crater. It’s a yellow-fever acacia forest (yellow barked trees) that really stands out from afar and is one of the best places to see elephants. This is due to the dense vegetation that provides both food and shelter; however, a quiet approach is essential to avoid disturbing them.
Lake Magadi
A striking soda lake on the crater floor, Lake Magadi is a haven for birdlife. Flamingos are often seen along its shores, along with a variety of other species, making it a highlight for birdwatchers.
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
Are the Ngorongoro Highlands Worth Seeing?
Absolutely, the impressive Ngorongoro Highlands are well worth visiting. These are a set of dramatically spectacular mountains that are situated in the greater northwestern Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The mountains were formed by a sequence of extinct volcanoes produced by the geological activity of the East African Rift.
What is so impressive about the Highlands is that the mountains stand in striking contrast to the flatter surrounding plains and savannahs. Some of the most notable are the Olmoti Crater, Empakaai Crater, and Lolmalasin, Tanzania’s third-highest mountain. They're covered in thick, lush forests that roll off the mountaintops, creating a vibrant green hue, and you’ll almost always spot misty clouds at the tops of the peaks.
The climate in the highlands is much cooler because of the elevation, which ranges from around 2,200 to 3,000 meters above sea level. For this reason, many travelers come here to hike in more moderate temperatures and experience a remote part of Tanzania.
A lone safari jeep 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
Planning Your Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Should You Book a Tour Operator or Self-Drive at Ngorongoro Crater?
For most travelers, booking with a safari tour operator is the preferred option. Here’s why.
Tour Operators
Companies like BornWild have their own teams on the ground in Tanzania, which makes a significant difference to the quality of your experience. Our guides know the Ngorongoro region inside out, have established relationships with park rangers, understand the terrain, and are the first to know when certain species appear in different parts of the park. That kind of local knowledge is difficult to come by on your own.
Once you arrive at the Ngorongoro Crater, everything is taken care of as part of your package. Pick-ups, drop-offs, accommodation, meals, and logistics are all handled so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
Self-Drive Safaris
Some people lean toward a self-drive safari for the extra freedom. In theory, driving alone sounds appealing, but in practice, it works out differently, as you'll face a number of challenges. Between high vehicle fees for park entry and a lack of understanding of where the main animals congregate, it's often more hassle than it's worth.
There's also the terrain to consider. Parts of the crater are rough, with corrugation, mud and deep potholes. Driving through any of these could seriously damage your vehicle, and you would be liable for the repair costs.
It's very important that you factor in these risks carefully before deciding to go it alone.
Elephants congregate amidst the forested regions of the Ngorongoro Crater where food is abundant / Image: michael-wilcox
What Is the Best Itinerary for a Ngorongoro Crater Safari?
The crater's main highlights can be covered in a single day without feeling rushed by following this simple itinerary.
Step 1: Start early and get collected from your hotel by your guide - The crater opens at 6 am, so arriving when the gates open puts you ahead of other vehicles and gives you the best chance of spotting wildlife from the outset.
Step 2: Begin the search for the Big Five - Lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and the rare black rhino can all be seen in the crater. Spotting all five during a single visit is possible, but knowing the right locations where each species is commonly found will greatly increase your chances.
Step 3: Turn your attention to the crater's birdlife - Flamingos and ostriches are among the bird species regularly seen across the crater floor, and there's plenty more to observe along the way.
Step 4: Take a walk along the crater rim - See the grounds from above for a whole other perspective. Looking down into the caldera gives you a real sense of just how vast this region is.
Step 5: Visit the Maasai tribe - Stop by to learn about their cultural traditions and gain a glimpse into their way of life.
If you have additional time and plan to spend more than a day here, activities such as trekking to the Endoro Waterfalls are worth adding to your plans.
Things to see and do in Ngorongoro Crater
Hiking The Rim
Hiking the rim of the crater is one of the most exciting things to do. Observe the wild animals below whilst being immersed in the stunning natural areas that surround you. The rim trails offer incredible views, opportunities to spot birdlife, and chance encounters with zebras and elephants whilst you hike.
If you hire a professional guide, they can teach you about medicinal plants, help you track animal footprints, and show you the best of the area's flora and fauna.
Olmoti Crater
The Olmoti Crater lies to the north of the Ngorongoro Crater and is the third-highest peak in Tanzania. It also has some of the best views and is spectacular to hike.
Enjoy Birdwatching
Spot augur buzzards, kori bustards, white-eyed slaty flycatchers and the famous pink flamingos. Lake Magadi, specifically, is ideal for keen birdwatchers.
Check Out Nasera Rock
Tucked away in the Gol Mountains, Nasera Rock is an inselberg rising to 50 meters. Following extensive archaeological research in the 1930s, the site was recognized for its historical significance, with artifacts such as stone tools and ancient rock paintings discovered there.
Hike to the Endoro Waterfalls
Hidden amidst the lush jungles of the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll find the 40-meter-high Endoro Waterfalls. This is a popular hike among visitors, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours on foot to reach.
Along the way, the trail winds through dense forests and passes by caves, offering an adventurous experience. Overall, the hike is considered easy, but some sections can be challenging, so be prepared and bring plenty of water.
Experience the Tribes of Lake Eyasi
Southwest of Ngorongoro lies Lake Eyasi, a stunning soda lake that is home to several tribes, including the Hadzabe, who are known as some of Africa’s last hunter-gatherers. In addition, the Datoga people can also be found here, sharing certain similarities with the Maasai.
Beyond the rich tribal connections, visitors may also be lucky enough to spot flamingos congregating around the lake, particularly during the wet season when they're the most noticeable.
There is so much action to witness on the crater floor. Here are lions and buffalos coming face to face / Image: peter-thomas
Best Viewpoints in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Gol Mountains Viewpoint, Lemala Viewpoint, Olduvai Gorge Viewpoint, and Engitati Hill Viewpoint are the standout viewpoints around the Ngorongoro Crater.
The Gol Mountains Viewpoint: A wonderful stop for those who want to see Maasai villages from afar.
Lemala Viewpoint: Prominent for spotting buffalo, elephants, and sometimes even lions.
Olduvai Gorge Viewpoint: Offers spectacular views of Olduvai Gorge and the surrounding area.
Engitati Hill Viewpoint: Provides amazing vistas of some of the park's key locations, including Lake Magadi, where you can often catch a great view of flamingos.
What Are the Rules for Visiting Ngorongoro Crater?
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area has clear rules that all visitors must follow.
Driving: Vehicles are required to stay on marked roads throughout the conservation area. Driving off-road is not permitted.
Camping: Overnight camping is only allowed at official sites within the conservation area. You can't camp outside of these designated areas.
On foot: Visitors are required to remain inside their vehicle while on the crater floor, unless instructed by your guide.
Hours: Game drives may only take place between 6:00 am and 6:00 pm. No vehicles are permitted in the crater outside of these hours.
Feeding animals: Feeding animals or attempting to lure them toward vehicles using food is strictly prohibited.
These rules exist to protect both the wildlife and visitors. If you're unsure how to act in a particular situation or have any questions on the day, don't hesitate to ask your guide. They will be able to provide the best guidance in the moment for your current situation.
A safari vahicle drives along the pathway throughout the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater with the steep towering walls in the background / Image: nadialovessingle
How to Stay Safe at the Ngorongoro Crater
Animal Behavior
You will be in close proximity to many wild animals in their natural environment, so this will inevitably pose some risk. It's important to keep a safe distance from animals, stay as quiet as possible in wildlife areas, and follow your guide's instructions at all times.
Volcanic Activity
The Ngorongoro Crater itself is an extinct volcanic caldera, meaning there is no realistic risk of eruption within the crater today. While the surrounding region forms part of the geologically active East African Rift system, some volcanoes in the area remain active. However, these are located away from the crater and do not pose a risk to visitors.
Malaria
Malaria is present in the Ngorongoro Crater throughout the year, although the risk can be slightly higher during and after the rainy seasons. Using mosquito repellent, sleeping under mosquito nets, and speaking to your doctor about preventative medication can significantly reduce your chances of contracting it during your trip.
Food Poisoning
Food standards in and around the Ngorongoro Crater are typically very high, particularly within tented camps and lodges, where meals are prepared to international standards. Issues with food are rare; however, it's always advisable to take precautions when dining at smaller, more local establishments. Opt for places that appear clean and reputable.
Sun Exposure
Due to the Ngorongoro Crater’s high altitude, with the rim reaching up to 2,400 meters high, you'll be exposed to strong UV rays. Wearing UV-protective clothing and applying sunscreen regularly will help prevent sunburn while you are out on a safari.
Road Conditions
The road from the rim to the floor is well-maintained even though it can be steep and winding. Road conditions are typically very good, though sections can be muddy and slippery after and during rainfall. Always travel with a licensed tour operator and experienced driver, both of which will ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Three flamingoes standing in a sparkling water source in Ngorongoro Crater. You can reach the Ngorongoro Crater location from anywhere in the world / Image: audric-wonkam
Tips for Planning a Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Book in advance
Lodges and tented camps around the crater can book out very quickly, especially during high season. The accommodations along the rim, which offer stunning views of the crater, often sell out fast, so it's best to secure your reservations as soon as possible. Many travelers also like to stay in the nearby town of Karatu as an alternative, which is 20 km from the crater and offers a wonderful array of accommodation options.
Travel with a reputable tour operator
A reputable tour operator will provide expert guides, well-planned logistics, and in-depth local knowledge, ensuring your time in the crater becomes far more enriching and memorable. You should organize your safari with one ahead of time, or else you'll have to plan on your own, which can be stressful.
Always Wear Layers
The Ngorongoro Crater can be cold since you'll have to drive through a range of different altitudes. For this reason, it’s a good idea to wear multiple layers of clothing on your safari, as it makes it easy to add or remove clothing whenever you get too hot or cold. Daytime is typically warm, while evenings and early mornings can be a little cooler.
Communicate Your Interests to Your Guide
Having a guide will allow you to tailor the safari experience to your own preferences. During your time within the crater, make sure to let your guide know which animals or experiences you most like to focus on. For example, if seeing lions is a priority, they can take you to the areas where they are most likely to be spotted.
A young lion strolls through the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater in lush green grass dotted with white flowers / Image: mustafa-masetic
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FAQs
How many days should you spend at Ngorongoro Crater?
One day is enough for a mini safari that lets you get a taste of the crater, observe the Big Five, and take in the incredible views. You can certainly cover most of the crater floor in that time.
If you're hoping to hike the rim, spend a few days on safari, or stay overnight within the conservation area, we'd recommend 1 to 3 days instead. With an open budget, we suggest a 1-Day Ngorongoro Crater Tour paired with time in the Serengeti and neighboring parks for a broader taste of Tanzania.
When is the best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater?
June to October is often considered the best time to visit the Ngorongoro Crater, thanks to minimal rainfall, plentiful sunshine, and pleasant temperatures during the dry season. It also coincides with the Great Migration in the nearby Serengeti, making these months the busiest, so you'll need to book your safari in advance to secure your spot.
How much does a Ngorongoro Crater safari cost?
Entry fees are $70.80 per person per day for non-resident tourists and $23.60 per person per day for children aged 5 to 16, with children under 5 exempt. Ngorongoro is one of the most expensive national parks to visit on a Tanzania safari, with a few separate costs to plan for beyond that.
If you're staying overnight within the conservation area, concession fees are charged on top. These are $59 per person per night for non-resident adults, and $11.80 per person per night for children 5 to 16, again with under-5s exempt. There's also a $295 per-vehicle-per-day fee that needs to be paid upon arrival at the crater.
Can visitors use drones in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area?
Unfortunately, the use of drones is not permitted in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area unless you obtain proper permission from the authorities. It’s a complex process that can take a long time and involves a lot of work. However, other photography equipment, such as DSLR cameras, is perfectly fine to bring with you.
Are night game drives allowed at the Ngorongoro Crater?
No, visitors may only go on game drives during daylight hours with licensed companies like BornWild. Night drives are strictly prohibited for the safety of visitors and to minimize disturbance to the animals living in the crater.
Is there a time limit for visiting the Ngorongoro Crater?
There's a six-hour limit specifically for the crater floor, though you can spend time in the wider conservation area for as long as it remains open. In practice, this limit is only enforced at certain times, and your safari operator will manage the timing to help you see everything on your itinerary.
Are there any animals you're unlikely to see at the Ngorongoro Crater?
Giraffes and impalas are the two you're least likely to encounter. Giraffes struggle with the steep descent, and there are very few acacia trees inside, one of their preferred food sources. Plus, the open grassland and marshy floor isn't ideal habitat for them.
Impalas tend to avoid the area too, since they rely on woodland and bushy cover for food and protection, which the crater floor lacks.
Can I walk around the crater?
Walking is permitted along the crater rim during hikes, as long as you’re in the company of an armed ranger, but it isn't allowed on the crater floor itself. That's where most wildlife is, so it's too risky to be here on foot.
Do you need to have a specific vehicle if you want to drive in the Ngorongoro Crater?
Yes, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is required to drive on the crater floor. This applies specifically to the floor. Standard vehicles are generally allowed elsewhere in the conservation area, though it's always worth doing your research rather than assuming.
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 wilderness of the Serengeti plains.
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