From Airport
3 Hours
Size
264 km²
Hidden Gems
Discover Offbeat places
Photo Spots
Best wildlife photo locations
Accommodation
lodges and camps nearby
Overview
Ngorongoro Crater is located in the northern part of Tanzania, within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The crater is a collapsed volcanic caldera, and it is one of the most unique and spectacular natural wonders in the world.
It lies approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) west of Arusha and is accessible by road, typically as part of a safari circuit that includes other famous destinations like Serengeti and Lake Manyara.
Tourist Attractions
- The Crater Floor: The Ngorongoro Crater floor is a rich and biodiverse ecosystem. It’s home to a variety of animals, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses). The floor of the crater is a unique wildlife haven, providing a high density of animals in a relatively small area, making it a prime destination for safari goers.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area: While the crater is the main attraction, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area itself is also rich in culture and history. The area is home to the Maasai people, who have lived there for centuries, and visitors can experience Maasai culture and traditional life.
- Crater Rim Views: The views from the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater are stunning. From here, you can look down into the caldera, which is often filled with mist in the early mornings, offering breathtaking photo opportunities. The crater’s edges rise over 600 meters (2,000 feet) above the floor.
- Olduvai Gorge: Located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Olduvai Gorge is an archaeological site famous for being one of the most significant locations for the discovery of early human fossils. The gorge provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of human evolution, and visitors can visit the museum there to learn more about this ancient site.
- Lake Magadi: On the crater floor, Lake Magadi is a soda lake that attracts flamingos and other bird species, especially during the wet season. The lake’s alkaline waters and surrounding environment provide a unique ecosystem that adds to the diversity of the crater’s wildlife.
- Wildlife: The Ngorongoro Crater is home to a rich variety of animals, including large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. It’s also known for its large population of black rhinoceros, which is rare in other parts of East Africa. The dense population of wildlife makes for some of the most rewarding safari experiences in Tanzania.
Fun Facts and Why It Differs from Other Places
- Africa’s Garden of God
- Kitulo is the first national park in tropical Africa specifically protected for its floral significance rather than wildlife.
- Seasonal Beauty
- The park’s charm changes dramatically with the seasons. In the dry season, it’s peaceful and open, while during the wet season, it bursts into colorful life with blooming flowers.
- Cool Climate
- Unlike the hot savannah parks, Kitulo’s high altitude gives it a cool and temperate climate, which can feel refreshing and totally different from most Tanzanian safari destinations.
- Off the Beaten Path
- Because it’s remote and lesser-known, Kitulo offers solitude and a chance to experience nature without crowds — ideal for eco-tourists and hikers.
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season (June to October): The best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, the vegetation thins out, and wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The weather is generally pleasant, with cooler temperatures at higher altitudes and warm days in the crater.
- Wet Season (November to May): The wet season, from November to May, is also a good time to visit for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive in large numbers. The lush green scenery is beautiful, and fewer tourists visit during this time. However, some areas of the crater floor can become muddy, and wildlife may be more dispersed.
Best Accommodations Found at This Place
- Kitulo Bandas (Park Rest Houses)
- Managed by TANAPA, these are basic but comfortable accommodations inside or near the park. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers and those who want to stay close to the wild.
- Mbeya City Hotels
- About 2-3 hours from the park, Mbeya offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses ranging from budget to mid-range. These include Mbeya Hotel, Royal Tughimbe, and Utengule Coffee Lodge.
- Local Guesthouses (Njombe/Kitulo Villages)
- Small, family-run accommodations in nearby towns or villages offer simple rooms and a chance to experience local hospitality.
FAQs
Kitulo is not a traditional wildlife safari park. It’s more focused on flowers, birds, hiking, and scenery. You won’t find lions or elephants here — but you’ll find unmatched plant biodiversity.
Yes, many visitors choose to visit Ngorongoro Crater as part of a day trip, either from Arusha or nearby Serengeti National Park. However, staying overnight in one of the lodges around the crater allows for a more relaxed experience.
Yes, Ngorongoro Crater is safe for tourists. It is one of the most popular and well-maintained safari destinations in Tanzania. However, as with all safaris, it’s important to follow the safety guidelines provided by your guide.
Yes, Ngorongoro Crater is home to all of the Big Five animals. It’s one of the best places in Tanzania to see lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses in a relatively compact area.
Ngorongoro Crater offers one of the most spectacular and unique safari experiences in Tanzania, with an incredible concentration of wildlife in a breathtaking geological setting. Whether you’re exploring its vibrant ecosystems, interacting with the Maasai, or marveling at the crater’s views, Ngorongoro is a destination that blends natural beauty, rich history, and exceptional wildlife encounters.
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