The Best Way to Experience the Ngorongoro Crater

One of the best places in Africa for a safari to see the Big Five and other wildlife is Tanzania’s Ngorongoro crater. Here in northern Tanzania, the dense concentration of some of Africa’s most iconic species paired with the dramatic landscape formed by the crater makes this one of the best places for a safari for everyone from families to honeymooners. The Ngorongoro crater is the largest volcanic caldera in the world and was formed millions of years ago when an active volcano exploded and collapsed on itself. The crater rim is a natural enclosure inside which is a rich and fertile grazing ground for wildlife that live there, including elephants, lions,  wildebeest, zebra, gazelles, leopards, African wild dogs, cheetah, hyena, buffalo, and flamingos. Most famously, there is a number of critically endangered black rhino living within the protected area.

There are plenty of fantastic options for luxury accommodation around the Ngorongoro Crater. Some of our favorites include the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge for its romantic ambiance, The Highlands for its incredible views all the way to the Serengeti, and Entamanu for its high level of privacy. All of the best properties near the Ngorongoro Crater have expert guides and a variety of activities beyond just the usual descent into the crater to see wildlife from afar. You can have a picnic on the crater floor while hippos come to drink water in the lake, or watch the sunrise or sunset from atop the crater’s rim.

One of the best times to visit the Ngorongoro Crater is from December - March, which is the best time to see the great migration and wildebeest calving. Combine a few days near the Crater with some time in the Serengeti. Understand the best time to go to Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater and other safari destinations and make sure to plan the best safari possible with help from our experts at Epic Road.