Ngorongoro Crater safaris

About Ngorongoro Crater

The iconic 264 km2 (26,400-hectare) Ngorongoro Crater - the largest intact volcano caldera in the world - is home to extraordinary biodiversity including the Big 5, and has amongst Africa's highest lion densities.

The crater’s centre is dominated by the seasonal Lake Magadi, Ngoitokitok Spring and the Munge River. Courtesy of a complex geological history, the alkaline lake is mineral-rich, and every year, lesser flamingos are attracted to its salty, shallow waters during the breeding season between October and December.

Visitors to the crater have the highest chances of seeing one of the region’s fabled black rhinos, which are otherwise notoriously difficult to spot.

From December to February, over a million wildebeest halt their almost ceaseless migration on the short grass plains of Serengeti and the Ndutu region of Ngorongoro to calve over a two-week period. For Ngorongoro’s carnivores, this yearly glut increases their own offspring’s chances of survival while providing ample opportunity for inexperienced youngsters to practice their hunting skills.

Ngorongoro is a paradise for keen birders. From the highland forests draped in orchids and lichen on the crater rim to the marshes and lakes below, the varied habitats of Ngorongoro make it a bird Eden for more than 500 species.

There are luxury lodges dotted about the Crater’s rim and surrounding areas, sporting spectacular views and luxurious facilities for the discerning tourist. July to October and December to January are the area’s busiest tourist seasons. Still, the entire region is spectacular at any time of the year, and budget-conscious visitors can take advantage of lower prices during the quieter months.

The safaris below all include time spent in Ngorongoro Crater