Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa’s most extraordinary natural landmarks and a top wildlife destination in Tanzania. Formed around 2.5 million years ago from the collapse of a giant volcano, it is the largest intact and unfilled volcanic caldera in the world. Measuring about 19 kilometers in diameter and covering over 260 square kilometers, the crater is home to a dense concentration of wildlife, making it one of the best places in Africa for game viewing.

Ngorongoro Crater is part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and lies within Tanzania’s northern safari circuit — often visited en route to or from the Serengeti.

Facts About Ngorongoro Crater

• The crater floor lies at approximately 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) above sea level.

• It’s sometimes referred to as “Africa’s Eden” due to its biodiversity and natural beauty.

• Over 25,000 large animals live inside the crater year-round.

• Ngorongoro is one of the best places to see the endangered black rhino.

• It is also a rare ecosystem where humans (Maasai communities) live in harmony with wildlife.

• Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Excursions and Activities

Visitors to the Ngorongoro Crater can enjoy the following experiences:

• Game Drives: Half- or full-day safaris into the crater, offering some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa.

• Crater Rim Walks: Guided nature walks along the crater rim with scenic views and birdwatching.

• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby Maasai villages to learn about traditional pastoral life.

• Olduvai Gorge Tour: A visit to one of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites, often combined with Ngorongoro tours.

• Photographic Safaris: Ideal for landscape and wildlife photographers due to the crater’s unique terrain.

Best Time to Visit

Ngorongoro Crater offers exceptional wildlife viewing year-round, but seasons may influence your experience:

• Dry Season (June to October):

  • Best for game viewing.

  • Grass is shorter, and animals are easier to spot.

• Green Season (November to May):

  • Lush landscapes and excellent for birdwatching.

  • Calving season for many herbivores (especially around February).

  • Fewer tourists and lower rates.

Note: Wildlife in the crater is largely resident, so sightings are excellent throughout the year.