Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater

The World's Largest Inactive Volcanic Caldera - Africa's Garden of Eden

600m
Crater Depth
260km²
Crater Floor Area
25,000+
Large Animals
UNESCO
World Heritage Site

The Ngorongoro Experience

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera and one of Africa's most incredible wildlife areas. Often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World," this natural amphitheater spans 260 square kilometers and drops 600 meters from rim to floor.

Its rich soils and permanent water supply support over 25,000 animals, creating one of the most dense concentrations of wildlife in Africa. The crater floor is a natural sanctuary where wildlife roams freely in a concentrated area, offering some of the best game viewing in Tanzania.

UNESCO World Heritage Volcanic Caldera Maasai Culture

UNESCO Site

World Heritage Site since 1979

Best Time

June to October & December to March

Big Five

Home to all Big Five animals

Black Rhino

One of the best places to see endangered black rhino

Why Visit Ngorongoro Crater

Discover what makes Ngorongoro one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife destinations

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Recognized globally for its outstanding natural beauty and ecological significance as one of the world's most intact calderas.

High Wildlife Concentration

Over 25,000 large animals including lions, elephants, rhinos, and hippos in a concentrated, easily viewable area.

Incredible Crater Views

Breathtaking panoramic views from the crater rim and unique geological formations of the ancient caldera.

Big Five Spotting

One of the best places in Tanzania to see all of the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.

Maasai Cultural Experiences

Visit traditional Maasai communities in the surrounding highlands and learn about their rich cultural heritage.

Year-Round Game Viewing

Permanent water sources ensure wildlife remains in the crater throughout the year, offering consistent game viewing.

Wildlife & Nature

Discover the incredible biodiversity of Ngorongoro Crater

Lions

The crater has one of the densest lion populations in Africa, known for their large black manes.

Black Rhino

One of the last sanctuaries for the endangered black rhino in Tanzania.

Elephants

Large bull elephants and smaller family groups roam the crater floor and Lerai Forest.

Hippos

Large pods of hippos inhabit the freshwater pools and swamps, especially around Lake Magadi.

Herbivores Galore

The crater supports large populations of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, and buffalo that graze on the rich grasslands. The permanent water sources and fertile soil create ideal conditions for these herbivores year-round.

  • Large herds of wildebeest (7,000 estimated)
  • Zebra populations (4,000 estimated)
  • Grant's and Thomson's gazelles
  • African buffalo herds

Birdlife & Ecosystems

Ngorongoro is a birdwatcher's paradise with over 500 recorded species. The varied habitats including grasslands, forests, lakes, and swamps support diverse avian life including flamingos, eagles, and endemic species.

  • Flamingos on Lake Magadi
  • Kori bustards (heaviest flying bird)
  • Secretary birds and various eagles
  • Forest birds in the Lerai Forest

Best Time to Visit

Plan your visit according to seasonal wildlife patterns and weather conditions

June to October

Dry Season - Peak Wildlife Viewing

  • Dry weather with clear skies and excellent visibility
  • Animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot
  • Best photography conditions with minimal vegetation
  • Cooler temperatures, especially on the crater rim

December to March

Green Season - Lush Scenery & Calving

  • Lush green landscapes with beautiful scenery
  • Calving season for wildebeest and zebras
  • Excellent birdwatching with migratory species present
  • Fewer tourists compared to peak season

Maasai Cultural Experience

Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Maasai people in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Living in Harmony with Nature

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is unique as it allows the Maasai people to live alongside wildlife in a multiple land-use system. The Maasai have coexisted with the wildlife for centuries, practicing their traditional pastoral lifestyle while protecting the natural environment.

Visitors can experience authentic Maasai culture through village visits, where you can learn about their traditions, customs, and way of life. Witness traditional dancing, see their distinctive homes (manyattas), and learn about their deep connection to the land and animals.

Manyatta Visits Traditional Dancing Pastoral Lifestyle

Cultural Activities Available

  • Village Tours

    Guided visits to traditional Maasai villages to learn about daily life and customs.

  • Craft Workshops

    Learn about traditional beadwork and crafts from Maasai artisans.

  • Cultural Performances

    Experience traditional Maasai singing, dancing, and jumping ceremonies.

Ready for Your Ngorongoro Adventure?

Book your Ngorongoro Crater safari today and experience one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife destinations. Our team is ready to help you plan the perfect Tanzanian adventure.

Call Us

+255 683 140 360

Email Us

safari@lusungulwamtwatours.com

Office Hours

Mon - Sun: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM EAT

Book Your Safari

Ngorongoro Crater Gallery

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ngorongoro through our gallery

Ngorongoro Panorama
Ngorongoro Lions
Black Rhino
Ngorongoro Elephants