Described as one of the wonders of the world, this unique and world-famous caldera is the most remarkable feature in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with a huge range of wildlife and diverse geographical habitats - from a soda lake to the Lerai Forest ("Lerai" is the maasai word for "yellow fever trees" - you'll see why...) to the table mountain and the open plains. There are hyena and jackal dens, a hippo pool and a variety of rich plant, animal and birdlife within the confines of this gigantic bowl, once the heart of this ancient volcano.  You will find most of the East African wildlife, indeed most of the big game, in the crater though not in numbers as great as in the Serengeti or other national parks. Sighting a cheetah is rare, although leopard have been spotted several times along the rim of the crater. It is the only place one is most likely to spot rhino. Most people spend a day or two exploring the crater; and we would recommend that a full day is quite sufficient to drive around the crater. The Ngorongoro Crater's size and shape, compared with the vast expanse of the Serengeti, means that you will see many other vehicles especially during the peak seasons. For those wanting to spend more time in Ngorongoro, there are a number of places to tour in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area including the Empakaai and Olmoti Craters (two of a string of seven volcanoes including the Ngorongoro Crater) and the Ngorongoro highlands are great for walking. There are also many interesting Maasai villages to visit. The Olduvai Gorge is a historical site, famous for the Zinjanthropus Boisei, various stone-age tools and the discovery of 3.75 million-year-old hominid footprints (and those of a three-toed horse) at nearby Laetoli.

Most of our guests stay at either the Sopa or the Serena Lodge on the Crater Rim, both of which have great views into the Crater. The Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge (TAHI) and the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge (CCA) are also situated with superb views of the crater (see link below). Nights on the crater are usually cold due to the altitude and it is advisable to carry light cardigans/jackets.

Driving time from Arusha is about 3-4 hours depending on the weather/road.

- LODGES & CAMPING