Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a range of fees for visitors depending on age and activities. These fees are typically paid at the park's gates and vary for adults, children, and vehicles.

• Adults (16+ years): USD 50 per day
• Children (5-16 years): USD 10 per day
• Children under 5: Free

Additional fees apply for vehicle entry and camping, which can often be included in group tours.

If you're driving into the park from Arusha, you'll likely enter through the Loduare gate, while travellers from the Serengeti will pass through Naabi Hill gate.

The Ngorongoro Crater Safari is a major attraction within the park, offering incredible wildlife viewing and scenic beauty. Be sure to check all costs in advance and include them in your Tanzania Travel budget.

The Ngorongoro Crater enjoys a mild and temperate climate. It experiences a Wet season from November to May, with short and long rains, and a Dry season from June to October. Visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures on the crater rim, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Dry Season (June to October)

The crater floor is sunny and pleasant with average temperatures around 19°C (66°F). Nights on the crater rim can be very cold, sometimes freezing.

Wet Season (November to May)

The Wet season has short rains from November to December, with temperatures around 23°C (73°F) on the crater floor. The long rains from March to May bring cooler weather, particularly on the crater rim.

Packing warm clothes is essential when visiting the Ngorongoro Crater, particularly for early morning safaris or stays on the crater rim. The Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Ngorongoro Safaris is often during the dry season, but the weather remains manageable all year, making it a great addition to any Tanzania Safari Itinerary.

The Ngorongoro Crater may be smaller compared to other Tanzania National Parks, but its diversity in landscapes and wildlife makes it one of the most dramatic safari experiences. There are several distinct habitats to explore during your visit:

Crater Floor

This vast grassland is where most of the safari action happens. It's home to thousands of grazing animals such as wildebeest, zebras, buffalo, and gazelles. Predators like lions and spotted hyenas roam here, hunting their prey. Visitors may even witness a thrilling big cat hunt.

Lake Magadi

Located in the centre of the crater, this soda lake is a haven for hippos and thousands of flamingos. The algae-filled shallows attract flamingos, while other bird species like pelicans and storks thrive here. It’s a top bird-watching spot in the Ngorongoro Crater Tanzania.

Crater Rim

Surrounding the crater is a steep, forested rim that creates a natural barrier between the caldera and the broader Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Leopards are known to inhabit this lush area, making it a prime spot for Tanzania Walking Safaris. These guided walks offer incredible views and opportunities to spot sunbirds, monkeys, and zebras.

Swamps

Gorigor and Mandusi Swamps, located in different parts of the crater, are rich in wildlife. Elephants, hippos, lions, and waterbucks are commonly seen in these wetlands. Black rhinos are also found here, making it a great spot for wildlife sightings.

Lerai Forest

This acacia and yellow fever tree forest on the crater floor is a prime area for spotting elephants, monkeys, and baboons. It’s also the best place to see the rare black rhinos that graze on the open plains during the day and retreat to the forest at night.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Crater lies within the larger Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here, you’ll find vast plains where wildlife like zebras, wildebeests, and other large herds migrate. The Maasai people also live and graze their cattle here, providing a unique cultural experience as they continue their traditional way of life.

Exploring these areas offers a comprehensive Tanzania Safari Experience, combining scenic landscapes with the chance to see some of the most iconic wildlife.

As there are no restaurants within the crater, picnics are your best option for lunch. Ngoitokitok Picnic Area is the only public picnic spot within the Ngorongoro Crater.

It’s a scenic location next to a hippo pool that feeds into the Gorigor Swamp. There are toilet facilities and a coffee kiosk available, making it convenient for visitors.

While enjoying your meal, you may encounter black kites swooping down to snatch an easy meal, or cheeky marabou storks trying their luck nearby.

The area offers breathtaking views of the crater and a peaceful atmosphere for a lunch break after your safari.Just be sure to keep an eye on your food as the local Tanzania Wildlife is always nearby!.

Yes, Ngorongoro Crater safaris are considered safe. You’ll be guided by experienced locals who know the area well. Sometimes, an armed ranger will accompany you to ensure extra protection when viewing wildlife.

• Guides maintain a safe distance from animals, so you can enjoy sightings without worry.
• While Ngorongoro was created by volcanic activity, the surrounding volcanoes are either dormant or extinct, posing no danger.
• The roads can be rough, making guided tours much safer than self-driving, reducing stress and accidents.

General Tanzania Safari Safety Tips include avoiding walking at night and keeping valuables secure. Stick to bottled or filtered water to prevent any health issues. Overall, hygiene standards in lodges are high, so you’re unlikely to face any food-related problems during your Ngorongoro Crater safari.

Yes, Ngorongoro Crater is a malaria area, so it's important to take precautions. Mosquitoes and tsetse flies in the area can transmit malaria and African Sleeping Sickness. Here are some safety tips:

• Wear long sleeves and trousers during dawn and dusk to reduce bites.
• Use insect repellent regularly, especially in the evenings.
• Sleep under mosquito nets for added protection.
• Consult your doctor about anti-malarial medication before travelling.

By taking these steps, you can fully enjoy your Safari in Tanzania, with all the beauty and wildlife that the Ngorongoro Crater has to offer. Stay safe and explore with peace of mind!

The Ngorongoro Crater gives a great safari experience. Here are some helpful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this world-famous destination.

Choose accommodation wisely

Stay on the crater rim for breathtaking views or opt for Karatu for a wider variety of lodges.

Avoid the crowds

Visit during the rainy season (April-May) to experience fewer visitors and enjoy peaceful game drives.

Family-friendly destination

With child-friendly lodges and abundant wildlife, it’s perfect for a family safari.

Prepare for chilly weather

It gets cold between June and August, so pack warm clothes.

With thoughtful planning and the right preparation, a Trip to The Ngorongoro Crater will be filled with stunning views and extraordinary wildlife encounters.