Ngorongoro Crater
Geographical feature

Ngorongoro Crater

Nogorngoro Crater is a natural amphitheater of unparalleled beauty

Tanzania
Location
June to October
Best Time to Visit
1,800 m
Altitude

About Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is a massive volcanic caldera, formed over two million years ago when a colossal volcano erupted and collapsed upon itself. What remains today is a natural amphitheater of unparalleled beauty, spanning approximately 260 square kilometers and boasting an astonishing diversity of wildlife. Renowned as one of Africa's most spectacula...

When to go

Excellent
Good
Fair
Jan
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Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasons

June - October
Best time to go
Less rainfall means animals are easier to spot, and the risk of malaria is lower.
June - October
High Season
Dry season, offering the best visibility of wildlife as they gather around water sources.
March - April
Low Season
Wet season, some roads may be difficult to navigate, but the landscape is beautifully green.
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What to do

Featured Experiences

Activities

Maasai Boma

A Maasai Boma visit is where you can learn and interact with the local trib...

Wildlife

The Ngorongoro Crater is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including rare and endangered species within its unique ecosystem.

Lion

Common

Elephant

Common

Black Rhino

Occasional

Cheetah

Occasional

Hippo

Common

Hyena

Common

Leopard

Rare

Giraffe

Not Present

Zebra

Common

Gazelle

Common

Buffalo

Common

Wildebeest

Common

Where to stay

Hotels & Lodges

Ngorongoro Farm House - Karatu

Ngorongoro Farm House - Karatu

4.7
Lodge
Comfort
Lemala Ngorongoro

Lemala Ngorongoro

4.3
Tented Camp
Luxury
Entamanu Ngorongoro

Entamanu Ngorongoro

5
Lodge
Luxury
View all hotels & lodges

Related destinations

Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Tanzania

What to know

Safety & Vaccinations
While the Ngorongoro Crater is considered a safe destination for tourists, visitors should take standard travel health precautions. Vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid are recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is also advised due to the presence of mosquitoes, especially during the wet season.
For more information regarding vaccinations and health notices, view the CDC’s page :
CDC Travelers' Health
CDC Travel health notices and vaccination recommendations
Getting There
The Ngorongoro Crater is accessible by road from Arusha, with the journey taking approximately 3-4 hours. It's also possible to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Lake Manyara Airport and arrange a transfer from there.
Getting Around
Travel within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and down into the crater is typically done in 4x4 vehicles. These vehicles are suited for the rugged terrain and offer the best opportunities for wildlife viewing. Guided tours are recommended to navigate the area effectively and to learn more about the ecosystem.
Visas
Visitors to Tanzania, including those coming to see the Ngorongoro Crater, must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) in advance, with some exemptions based on nationality. Always check the latest visa requirements and ensure you have the necessary documentation for entry, including any required health certificates.
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Frequently Asked Questions