NORTHERN TANZANIA
Ngorongoro Crater
DISCOVER NGORONGORO
A Natural Sanctuary Like No Other
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Tanzania’s most extraordinary wildlife destinations, a vast volcanic caldera surrounded by steep forested walls and filled with an exceptional variety of animals. Formed millions of years ago after the collapse of a massive volcano, the crater today creates a spectacular natural setting for one of the most rewarding game drives in Northern Tanzania.
Across the crater floor, open grasslands, woodland, wetlands and freshwater springs support an impressive concentration of wildlife. Lions, buffalo, wildebeest, zebras, hippos and hyenas are regularly encountered, while the crater is also one of Tanzania’s notable places to search for the endangered black rhino.
Beyond its wildlife, Ngorongoro forms part of a much larger conservation landscape where wildlife and Maasai pastoral communities share the surrounding highlands. Combined with the dramatic descent from the crater rim and sweeping views across the caldera, it offers an experience unlike anywhere else on the Northern Circuit.
THE NGORONGORO EXPERIENCE
Inside One of Africa’s Great Natural Wonders
Wildlife in the Crater
The enclosed crater floor supports an extraordinary diversity of wildlife within a relatively compact area. Lions, buffalo, wildebeest, zebras, hippos and spotted hyenas are frequently seen, while elephants are often encountered around the woodland. The endangered black rhino remains one of Ngorongoro’s most sought-after sightings.
A Landscape Shaped by Nature
Descending from the forested rim reveals a dramatic landscape almost 600 metres below. Grasslands stretch across the crater floor alongside marshes, springs, woodland and Lake Magadi, creating varied habitats within the ancient volcanic walls.
Culture & Conservation
The wider Ngorongoro Conservation Area is more than a wildlife destination. Maasai communities have long lived within these highlands alongside wildlife, creating a distinctive cultural landscape. Thoughtfully arranged cultural experiences can offer travellers greater insight into the people, traditions and conservation challenges of the region.
WHEN TO GO
Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Crater
Green Landscapes
The beginning of the year brings green scenery across the Ngorongoro highlands and rewarding wildlife viewing inside the crater. This period also combines particularly well with the nearby southern Serengeti and Ndutu region during the wildebeest calving season.
Long Rains
The long rains transform the crater and surrounding highlands into lush green landscapes. Wildlife remains abundant, while fewer visitors can create a quieter experience. Rain and cloud are more frequent, particularly around the crater rim.
Dry Season
Cooler and drier conditions make this one of the most popular periods to visit. Wildlife viewing remains excellent, vegetation becomes less dense and clear conditions can provide beautiful views from the crater rim. Early mornings at higher elevations can be surprisingly cold.
Short Rains
Short rains refresh the landscape after the dry season, bringing greener scenery to the highlands. Wildlife viewing remains rewarding, with changing weather creating dramatic skies and beautiful photographic conditions.
Temperatures on the Ngorongoro Crater rim can be considerably cooler than on the crater floor, particularly early in the morning and at night. A warm layer is recommended for early departures.