Exhilarating Safari in Ngorongoro Crater – Key Highlights

Ngorongoro crater is often a highlight of many travelers’ experiences in sub-Saharan Africa. The world’s only intact caldera is the main point of attraction in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It formed when a large volcano exploded and collapsed on itself about 2-3 million years ago.

Its floor is 610 meters deep and covers 260 square kilometers. The rich volcanic soils there provide nutritious grazing for various herbivores. This in turn attracts an impressive density of predators. Truly, Ngorongoro crater is one of the 7 natural wonders of Africa.

If you are planning a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro or Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater is undoubtedly one of the captivating places to make a stop. You’ll be thrilled by its breathtaking geological formations, beautiful plants, and different kinds of mammals and birds.

The highlights of a safari in Ngorongoro crater

Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best safari destinations in East Africa. It’s part of the northern circuit of Tanzania, connecting the Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park.

Understandably, thousands of travelers visit Ngorongoro Crater every year. There are a number of activities that make this place a top destination in Tanzania.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife viewing is one of the key highlights of visiting the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The crater is home to a wide array of wildlife, all the “Big Five” are found here. Game drives on the crater’s floor provide excellent viewing of elephants, buffalos, lions, wildebeest, zebra, black rhinos, and many more.

Although the enclosed nature of the crater makes it relatively easy to spot animals during a safari drive, cheetahs, African wild dogs, and leopards are rarely seen. During the rainy season, a good number of zebras and wildebeests also vacate the crater as part of the Great Migration in Africa.

Most game drives in the Ngorongoro crater are done during the day after morning breakfast. This is when the big cats are on active hunt for a meal of the day. Safari vehicles are closed, with glass windows and a pop-up roof. This provides a safe viewing of the predators up close.

Hiking and crater rim walks

There are various hiking options in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Places to trek include the Empakaai and Olmoti craters. They both offer panoramic views of the region. Olduvai Gorge, a prehistoric site renowned for its early human fossils and artifacts is also a strong area of attraction.

Walking to the museum on the site will take you back to the history of human evolution. It’s particularly an enriching experience for students and researchers. Cultural visits to nearby Maasai bomas is also a privilege to learn about their diverse cultures and traditions.

Birding

Bird watching is an excellent experience in the Ngorongoro crater. Even from a distance, you can spot flocks of pink flamingos in shallow Lake Magadi. Other noticeable birds in the crater include storks, herons, ducks, waders, ostrich, grey crowned cranes, kori bustards, and secretary birds among others.

For a greater bird-watching experience, be sure to have a pair of binoculars and perhaps a spotting scop. November to April would be the best time for birding in Ngorongoro Crater. The wet season is ideal for breeding and most migratory birds will also be in the area.

Hot air balloon ride

A hot air balloon ride is one of the breathtaking activities in the Ngorongoro crater. The ride begins near Olduvai Gorge and takes you through shifting dark dunes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the Ndutu plains on the western side calving place for millions of wildebeests.

While on the hot air balloon ride, guests also enjoy amazing views of the landscapes, wildlife, and never-seen-before sunrises. I remember we enjoyed a champagne breakfast in the bush after the one-hour balloon ride. Make sure to have a jacket or sweater due to the early morning breeze.

When to go to Ngorongoro Crater

Wildlife remains in the steep walls of the Ngorongoro crater year-round. However, choosing the right time for your visit isn’t about maximizing your game viewing experience but more about crowds and the number of vehicles you’ll meet. 

From my experience, the best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater is during the rainy season in April and May.  Crowds are less during this time of the year and the crater is calm and lush as compared to dry seasons when the terrain and landscapes are dusty.

The dry weather from July to September has the highest number of vehicles and visitors entering the crater. Crowds also surge during the calving season from December to February. It’s the most dramatic moment in the crater as predators get easy targets for their meals.

How to get to Ngorongoro Crater

If you’re traveling from afar, book a flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania. From there you can reach Ngorongoro Crater by road. The journey typically involves driving to Arusha, Karatu, and then proceeding to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area gate.

Arusha to Karatu is about 2 hours on the 140km smooth tarmac road. Karatu to Loduare gate (Ngorongoro Conservation Area entrance) is 15km and the drive takes about 30 minutes. Loduare gate to the entrance of the Ngorongoro Crater entrance takes about 1 hour.

Many tour operators offer packages that include accommodation, park fees, guided walks, and transportation to and from the crater. If you are visiting during peak season, make sure to plan your trip in advance as lodges and accommodation facilities may become scarce.

Where to stay in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

There are several accommodation options within and around the Ngorongoro Conservation Area including the following:

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Located on the rim of the crater, this lodge offers stunning views of the crater and its beautiful surroundings. The 74 guest rooms and one suite facility feature clean ensuite bathrooms with toilets Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.

Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge

Another lodge on the highest point of the crater rim offers panoramic views. The rooms are extremely spacious, with Wi-Fi, ensuite bathrooms, private deck, not to mention a mini-bar and restaurant that serves tasty meals.

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Known for its traditional architectural setting, this lodge provides exceptional service and a luxurious stay experience. Chandelier-lit bathrooms, antiques and Persian carpets, fine dining, and decadent bush picnic give it a deserved reputation.

Lemala Ngorongoro Camp

A tented camp near the crater rim, in an acacia forest just next to the quiet Lemala access route. The roomy tents have en-suite bathrooms, an el-fiasco shower, and a flush toilet. Its location is ideal for wildlife watching and easy crater access.

Gibb’s Farm

Located on the slopes of Ngorongoro crater, this historic farm-turned-lodge offers a tranquil setting amidst coffee plantations and gardens. The cottages have fireplaces and bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers. There’s a swimming pool, too, and a spa.

If you prefer to stay outside the conservation area, you can find accommodation in nearby towns such as Karatu or Mto wa Mbu. These options are often more budget-friendly and offer a range of lodges, hotels, guesthouses, and campsites.