Ngorongoro Crater

The World’s Largest Intact Volcanic Caldera

Serengeti National Park

The jewel of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, the Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Formed around 2.5 million years ago when a massive volcano collapsed inward, it is the largest unbroken caldera in the world. Measuring about 20 km across, 600 meters deep, and covering 300 sq km, the crater offers visitors an unrivaled natural amphitheater filled with life.

Often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, Ngorongoro is home to approximately 30,000 animals year-round, making it one of the best places in Africa for game viewing. Its landscapes include lush grasslands, swamps, acacia forests, and Lake Makat (a soda lake fed by the Munge River), all sustaining a rich variety of wildlife.

From the crater rim at over 2,200 meters high, visitors are treated to spectacular views, often with clouds hugging the rim and the tiny silhouettes of animals moving across the crater floor far below. Unlike the open Serengeti, Ngorongoro feels like a self-contained sanctuary where both grazers and predators thrive in abundance.

The name “Ngorongoro” comes from the Maasai phrase ‘Orgirra le Kkorongorro’, meaning Big Bowl. Over time, early documentation misspelled the word into the name we know today.

Wildlife & Ecosystem

Ngorongoro Crater boasts the highest density of wildlife in Africa, including lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, buffalos, hyenas, and an impressive population of black rhinos—making it one of the best places to see this endangered species. Flamingos gather along the shores of Lake Makat, while golden jackals and serval cats can be spotted hunting in the grasslands.

This unique ecosystem, combined with fertile volcanic soil and constant water sources, ensures that animals remain in the crater throughout the year.

Ngorongoro Activities

Game Drives

Bird Watching

Walking / Hiking

Cultural Visits

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Ngorongoro Highlights

World’s Largest Intact Caldera

At 20 km wide and 600 m deep, Ngorongoro holds the record as the largest unbroken volcanic caldera on Earth.

Home to the Big Five

It’s one of the few places where you can spot all Big Five animals (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard) in one day.

Black Rhino Sanctuary

The crater is one of the last safe havens for endangered black rhinos in Tanzania.

Unique Climate

With its own microclimate, the rim can be chilly and misty, while the crater floor remains warm and sunny.

Rich Human History

The wider Ngorongoro Conservation Area includes Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important archaeological sites for early human evolution.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Since 1979, Ngorongoro has been recognized for both its natural beauty and cultural significance.

Best time To Go

Discover optimal safari timing with our seasonal guide for prime wildlife sightings and unforgettable experiences

Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around waterholes and the grass is shorter. Best time for rhino sightings.

The crater is lush and beautiful, with birdlife at its peak. This is calving season for many herbivores, attracting predators.

Thanks to its permanent water and grazing, Ngorongoro offers excellent wildlife viewing at any time of year.

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