Ngorongoro Crater

Overview

Ngorongoro Crater, located in northern Tanzania, is one of the world’s largest intact volcanic calderas. Formed approximately three million years ago, it spans about 260 square kilometers and has a depth of 610 meters. The crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the larger Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five, and is particularly famous for its high density of lions and black rhinos. The crater’s diverse habitats, from open grasslands to acacia forests and swamps, support over 25,000 large animals, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

How to get there

To visit Ngorongoro Crater, travelers typically fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha, Tanzania. From Arusha, the crater is about a 3-4 hour drive, usually along well-maintained roads. Many visitors join organized safari tours that include transportation, often in 4×4 vehicles suited for the terrain. Alternatively, domestic flights are available to Lake Manyara Airport, which is closer to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, followed by a shorter drive. The journey offers picturesque views of the Tanzanian landscape, enhancing the travel experience.

Things to do

At Ngorongoro Crater, visitors can enjoy a range of activities that highlight its unique landscape and abundant wildlife. Game drives are the most popular, offering the chance to see the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—as well as numerous other species in their natural habitat. Birdwatching is exceptional, with over 500 species recorded in the area. Guided walking safaris provide an intimate experience of the crater’s diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, visits to the Maasai villages around the crater offer cultural insights and the opportunity to learn about traditional Maasai life. Exploring the archaeological site of Olduvai Gorge, located nearby, is another fascinating activity, providing a glimpse into early human history.

Tours & Safaris

Kati Makutano Street,
P.O. Box 11237,
Arusha,
Tanzania.

info@africanmasterclasstours.com

+255 624 258863 / +255 754 625222

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