Overview

The Ngorongoro Crater, part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, spans approximately 264 km². Formed from a collapsed volcano, it is the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. The crater floor is a unique ecosystem with grasslands, swamps, and a soda lake, surrounded by high crater walls and scenic viewpoints.

Wildlife

• Big five: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, black rhinos
• Zebras, wildebeest, gazelles, hippos, and warthogs
• Birds: flamingos, crowned cranes, ostriches, and raptors
• Other species: hyenas, jackals, and a variety of small antelopes
• Endemic and rare species in surrounding highlands

Activities

• Full-day crater game drives with professional guides
• Scenic photography from crater rim viewpoints
• Cultural visits to Maasai villages nearby
• Short walks along designated crater rim trails
• Birdwatching and wildlife tracking

Weather & Best Time to Visit

• Temperatures: 14 °C–26 °C on the crater floor, cooler on rim
• Dry season: June–October — best for game drives and clear views
• Wet season: November–May — lush landscapes, occasional road challenges
• Optimal wildlife spotting occurs during dry season

Quick Facts

• Location: Arusha Region, northern Tanzania
• Size: ~264 km²
• Elevation: Crater floor ~1,800 m; rim up to 2,400 m
• Main Entrance Gates: Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) gates at Lerai, Simba, and Nainokanoka
• Accessibility: ~180 km from Arusha city; suitable for 4×4 vehicles
• Key Attractions: Big Five, crater floor wildlife, Maasai villages, scenic viewpoints
• Best For: Safari drives, wildlife photography, birdwatching, cultural experiences