Ngorongoro Crater

Tanzania, Africa

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a breathtaking volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife. Often referred to as the 'Eden of Africa', it offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, abundant flora, and unprecedented animal sightings, including the Big Five. Visitors can enjoy game drives, cultural experiences with the Maasai, and spectacular views from the crater rim. Its rich biodiversity and remarkable geological features make it a bucket-list destination for nature enthusiasts.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Nature Reserve

Vibe

Active

Airport

Arusha

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

7 Best Things to Do in Ngorongoro Crater

1

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Wildlife Safari

Explore diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

Booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit a Maasai Village

Experience Maasai culture and traditions firsthand.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Crater Rim Drive

Drive along the stunning rim for breathtaking views.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Bird Watching

Spot unique bird species in a rich ecosystem.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Olduvai Gorge

Explore the site of early human fossils.

No booking required
6

Est. 12 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Camping in the Crater

Experience wildlife up close while camping.

Booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Photography at Sunset

Capture breathtaking sunset views over the crater.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-15 (#199 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Swahili

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ugali na Maharage ya Nazi

VE

Maize porridge with coconut beans (National dish)

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, often served with sides

Pilau

VE

Spiced rice dish with meat or vegetables

Zanzibar Pizza

VE

Stuffed flatbread with various fillings

Chapati

VE

Flatbread, often served with curries

Phrases to learn

English

Swahili

Hello

Habari

(Hah-bah-ree)

Yes/No

Ndiyo / Hapana

(Ndee-yo / Ha-pah-nah)

Thank you

Asante

(Ah-sahn-teh)

Excuse me

Samahani

(Sah-mah-hah-nee)

How much?

Bei gani?

(Bay-yee gah-nee)