Ngorongoro Crater
Step Into Africa’s Lost World – A Natural Wonder of Wildlife and Beauty
Why Visit Ngorongoro Crater?
Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most breathtaking safari destinations in Africa — a vast volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife and surrounded by dramatic escarpments. Located in Northern Tanzania, it’s part of the greater Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that blends wildlife protection with cultural preservation.
Often called “Africa’s Garden of Eden,” the crater offers the best chance to see the Big Five in a single day — all in a setting unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater
Inside the 600-meter-deep caldera, you’ll find:
The Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rare black rhino
Huge herds of wildebeest and zebra
Hyenas, cheetahs, jackals, hippos
Over 400 species of birds, including flamingos on Lake Magadi
Because the crater is enclosed, wildlife sightings are incredibly reliable year-round.
Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro is a great destination year-round due to its enclosed geography, but here’s what to expect:
June to October – Dry season, excellent visibility, and high wildlife activity
November to May – Green landscapes, migratory birds, and fewer crowds
December to March – Great for combining with calving season in nearby Serengeti
Safari Options in Ngorongoro Crater
At Sometimes in Africa, we offer:
Full-day Crater Game Drives
Multi-day Safaris: Ngorongoro + Serengeti or Lake Manyara
Lodge & Crater Rim Stays
Custom itineraries with cultural visits to local Maasai communities
Getting to Ngorongoro
By Road
3–4 hours drive from Arusha via Lake Manyara
By Air
Fly to Lake Manyara or Serengeti and drive to the crater rim
Top Things to Do in Ngorongoro
Full-day safari inside the crater
Visit Olduvai Gorge – cradle of humankind
Walk on the crater rim with a local guide
Plan Your Safari to Ngorongoro
Ngorongoro offers a unique mix of wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage — perfect for first-timers and seasoned safari-goers alike.