Ngorongoro Crater

The world's largest intact volcanic caldera, a natural enclosure teeming with lions, rhinos and wildebeest.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps

Time needed: Full day
Entry: Paid (conservation + crater fees)
Best time: June–October
Area: Ngorongoro

Zebra, wildebeest and buffalo on the open grass.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Arusha Region

From Arusha: About 3–4 hours by road.
Descent: Vehicles descend about 600 metres to the crater floor; time on the floor is limited daily.
Picnic: Picnic stops have toilets; watch out for kites stealing food.

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The story of the Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater formed when a huge volcano collapsed about 2–3 million years ago. Its floor covers roughly 260 square kilometres, surrounded by walls about 600 metres high.

It is one of the best places in Africa to see the endangered black rhino. Maasai herders share the wider Conservation Area with wildlife, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best time to visit

Best season

June–October (dry season).

Best time of day

Descend at opening, before most vehicles.

Cold

The rim is cold at night; bring warm clothes.

Tips before you go

Enter at opening time.
Enter the crater as early as possible.
Bring binoculars to spot rhinos.

Best hotels near the Ngorongoro Crater

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Lodge on the crater rim.

See prices

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Rim lodge with crater views.

See prices

All hotels near the Ngorongoro Crater

What's around the Ngorongoro Crater

Lake MagadiFlamingos on the crater floor.
Lerai ForestYellow fever trees.
Olduvai GorgeEarly human fossils.
SerengetiBeyond the highlands.

Questions travellers ask

How big is the crater floor?

About 260 square kilometres.

Can I see rhinos?

Yes, it is one of the best places.

How deep is it?

About 600 metres.