NGORONGORO CRATER

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Discover Ngorongoro's Natural Wonders

Explore the iconic Ngorongoro crater and surrounding conservation area, a paradise for nature lovers and safari travelers seeking breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and authentic African wilderness experiences.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro crater is one of Tanzania’s most famous natural landmarks and has a history shaped by geology, wildlife and human settlement. Ngorongoro crater stands at an elevation of 2,200-2,400m (7,200-7900feet) above sea level, with crater floor about (600m) below the rim. Its high-altitude setting provides temperature and spectacular panoramic views making it one of Tanzania’s most remarkable safari destinations.

According to UNESCO estimates, the Ngorongoro Conversation Area is home to approximately 25,000 large mammals. Here you can see the Big Five: elephants, Rhinos, Lions, Leopards, and Buffalos, along with other famous African animals like Hippopotamus, Zebra, Antelopes, Servals, and Warthogs. Most of these animals live in a compact area of 260 squares kilometer(100misqure). On a safari drive you will encounter new wildlife every 10-15 minutes of travel. This is one of the reasons why Ngorongoro is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where is Ngorongoro Crater Located?

The Ngorongoro Crater is located in the Ngorongoro Conversation Area in northern Tanzania, approximately 190km(118mi) west of arusha, this is about 4-hour drive by car. It borders Serengeti to the west and Lake Manyara to the south. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) through which most travelers enter Tanzania is 250km(155mi) away.

Ngorongoro: Part of the conservation Area

When planning your trip, it’s important to remember that the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Ngorongoro Crater are not the same, the total area of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is 8,292km sq (3,202mi). this is about six times the size of Los Angeles and over five times the size of London.

Ngorongoro Crater formed over 2 to 3 million years ago when a giant volcano erupted and collapsed, creating the world’s largest intact volcano caldera. the crater area is only 260km square (100misq). If you have one day of safari planned in Ngorongoro, you will spend most of it there. in addition to the crater the Ngorongoro Conservation Area has several other attractions, such as lake Ndutu, Olduvai Gorge, Empakai and Olmoti craters.

Ngorongoro Crater Animals

The estimated number of large mammals in the Ngorongoro crater in 2020 was derived from research conducted by a team of scientists that included Particia D. Mmoehlman and Joseph O. Ogutu. their study titled “long-term historical and projected herbivore population dynamics in Ngorongoro crater, Tanzania” provides detailed population estimates for the crater’s wildlife.

  • Wildebeest – 10,000
  • Spotted Hyenas – 6000
  • Buffalo – 4000
  • Elephants – 300
  • Lions – 55
  • Black Rhinos ->30

The count does not include small animals like servals, caracals, warthogs and foxes.

What to see in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area?

Besides the main attraction, the crater with its wildlife, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area has several interesting locations. We recommend setting aside an extra day to visit them.

Olduvai Gorge

Olduvai Gorge is one of the world’s most important archeological sites and is often called the “cradle of humankind.” Fossils, stone tools and ancients remain discovered here have helped scientists understand the origins of early humans. A visit to the museums and excavation sites offers fascinating insight into human evolution and the discoveries made by renowned archeologists Louis and Mary Leakey.

Empakai Crater

Empakai crater is a spectacular volcanic crater filled with a deep alkaline lake, located in the northeastern part of conservation area. The lake attracts millions of flamingos and other water birds, while the surrounding forest is home to blue monkeys and bushbuck. Guided hikes to the crater floor provide breathtaking views and peaceful escape from the busier safari route. The flamingo can be seen from November to May.