Discover Ngorongoro: Crater, Wildlife & Culture

Home of the Big Five • Savannah, Forest & Soda Lakes

Ngorongoro Crater

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most breathtaking natural wonders, the Ngorongoro Crater offers unmatched wildlife density within a collapsed volcanic caldera surrounded by dramatic highland scenery.

Overview

The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera, measuring about 264 km². It forms a self-contained ecosystem with grasslands, forests, swamps, and a soda lake, supporting one of the highest wildlife densities in Africa.

Wildlife

  • Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, black rhino
  • Zebra, wildebeest, gazelle, hippo & warthog
  • Hyenas, jackals & small predators
  • Flamingos, crowned cranes & raptors
  • Rich biodiversity across crater floor & highlands

Activities

  • Full-day crater game drives
  • Photography from crater rim viewpoints
  • Cultural visits to Maasai communities
  • Birdwatching in wetlands & lakes
  • Short guided walks on crater rim trails

Quick Facts

  • Location: Arusha Region, Tanzania
  • Size: 264 km²
  • Depth: ~600m crater walls
  • Elevation: 1,800m – 2,400m
  • Status: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Best Time to Visit

  • Dry Season: Jun–Oct (best wildlife viewing)
  • Green Season: Nov–May (lush scenery & birds)
  • Peak Viewing: Year-round with high game density

Key Highlights

  • Highest wildlife density in Africa
  • Rare black rhino sightings
  • Stunning crater rim viewpoints
  • Maasai cultural heritage nearby

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