The Crater Floor
Grassland, woodland and wetlands rich in resident wildlife.
Into the heart of Africa's natural wonder
Ngorongoro
Crater
Dramatic volcanic scenery and remarkable wildlife within the walls of an ancient caldera.
Explore deeper
A natural wonder of Tanzania
Welcome to Ngorongoro
Formed when a great volcano collapsed, Ngorongoro Crater shelters grasslands, woodland, freshwater pools and wetlands — and one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.
Lions, elephants, buffaloes and zebras roam the floor, and with patience you may spot the endangered black rhino, all beneath a rim of breathtaking views.
What makes it extraordinary
Three reasons to fall for Ngorongoro
Remarkable wildlife concentrations
Lions, elephants, buffaloes and wildebeest in one compact landscape — often in a single game drive.
A dramatic volcanic landscape
From the rim, grasslands, woodland and shimmering lakes stretch across the vast caldera floor below.
A chance to see black rhino
The crater is a stronghold for this endangered species. Sightings are possible but never guaranteed.
A sanctuary beneath the crater rim
Life within the caldera
A crater safari begins with an early descent to explore the floor in the cool morning hours. Lions rest in the grass, zebras and wildebeest graze the open plains, and buffaloes gather in herds.
Wetlands and lakes attract flamingos when conditions suit. We combine your crater day with other northern parks for a varied and memorable safari.
A landscape of contrasts
Distinct landscapes, different experiences
Each part of Ngorongoro has its own atmosphere, wildlife and reasons to linger.
The Crater Rim
Cool air, morning mist and sweeping views over the caldera.
Lerai Forest
A shaded woodland on the floor where elephants often feed.
The Highlands
Rolling volcanic hills and forest across the conservation area.
Where you'll stay
Comfort above the wilderness
Stay on the crater rim for early descents and sweeping views, or in Karatu when combining northern parks. Choose from lodges, tented camps and luxury retreats to suit your route.
Stand above the ancient caldera as morning mist drifts across the floor, and watch Africa wake up below you.
Make it your journey
Safaris in Ngorongoro
A few ways to include Ngorongoro in your Tanzania adventure. Routes and durations can be tailored to your dates.
- The Cultural & Wilderness Journey11 days / 10 nights — A 10-night safari pairing Tarangire, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti with time among the Hadzabe and Datoga at Lake Eyasi.
- Ngorongoro Crater SafariA full guided day exploring the wildlife-rich crater floor.
- Ngorongoro & Serengeti SafariThe crater paired with the plains and the Great Migration.
- Tarangire & Ngorongoro SafariElephant country followed by a contrasting crater day.
- Luxury Ngorongoro SafariRim-top lodges, private guiding and an unhurried pace.
Travel inspiration
Stories for your safari planning
Safari inspiration
What to Expect on a Crater Safari
The early descent, game drives and the rhythm of a day on the crater floor.
Read moreWhen to travel
The Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro
How weather and seasons shape wildlife viewing throughout the year.
Read more
Plan your route
Pairing Ngorongoro with Other Parks
Ideas for combining the crater with the Serengeti and Tarangire.
Read moreReady to plan your Ngorongoro safari?
Tell us your dates and group size. We reply within 24 hours with a suggested itinerary and a clear price.