Overview
The Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s Eden, is the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. Covering an area of 260 square kilometers and with walls rising 600 meters high, it provides a natural enclosure for over 25,000 animals. Visitors can expect to see lions, elephants, buffaloes, and even the rare black rhino in one of the most densely populated wildlife areas on earth.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site also offers stunning views of forests, grasslands, and soda lakes, making it ideal for both photography and safari enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Spot the Big Five in one compact location.
- See large flocks of flamingos at Lake Magadi.
- Explore Lerai Forest, home to elephants and monkeys.
- Visit Maasai villages on the crater’s rim.
- Stunning panoramic views from the crater edge.
Activities
- Full-day and half-day crater floor game drives.
- Cultural tours to nearby Maasai communities.
- Bird watching with over 500 species recorded.
- Guided hikes along the crater rim.
Best Time to Visit
- June to October: Best for wildlife viewing in dry conditions.
- November to May: Lush scenery with fewer tourists.
How to Get There
- By Air: Flights from Arusha to Lake Manyara Airstrip, followed by a short drive.
- By Road: About 3-4 hours’ drive from Arusha via the town of Karatu.