Ngorongoro Crater

Overview

Ngorongoro Crater, often called the Eighth Wonder of the World, is a breathtaking natural amphitheater located in northern Tanzania. Formed from a collapsed volcano millions of years ago, the crater is home to one of the richest wildlife havens on Earth, where animals roam freely across sweeping grasslands and shimmering soda lakes.

Why Go:

Big Five Wildlife Haven

Year-Round Game Viewing

Flamingos on Lake Magadi

Maasai Cultural Encounters

Stunning Caldera Views

Scenery:

The scenery inside the Ngorongoro Crater is nothing short of magical — a vast, sunken caldera surrounded by lush highland walls. The floor is carpeted with golden savannahs, sparkling lakes like Lake Magadi, and patches of acacia forest. Early mornings often bring a soft mist over the crater rim, creating a mystical, dreamlike atmosphere that photographers and nature lovers adore.

Best Time to Visit:

Ngorongoro Crater can be visited year-round, but the dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources and the grass is shorter. The green season (November to May) offers lush scenery, dramatic skies, and excellent birdwatching with fewer tourists.

Weather & Climate:

The crater enjoys a mild, temperate climate due to its elevation (about 2,200 meters above sea level). Days are generally warm, while nights can be chilly, especially along the crater rim. Rainfall is more frequent from November to May, but showers are often short and refreshing.

Best Time to Visit

Ngorongoro Crater can be visited year-round, but the dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources and the grass is shorter. The green season (November to May) offers lush scenery, dramatic skies, and excellent birdwatching with fewer tourists.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

Weather & Climate

The crater enjoys a mild, temperate climate due to its elevation (about 2,200 meters above sea level). Days are generally warm, while nights can be chilly, especially along the crater rim. Rainfall is more frequent from November to May, but showers are often short and refreshing.

Dry Season

June – October

Clear skies, cool temperatures, and excellent visibility for wildlife viewing. Vegetation is shorter, making animal sightings easy and dramatic.

Wet Season

November – May

Lush green scenery with migratory birds and dramatic skies. Some areas may be muddy, but wildlife remains abundant and active.

Accommodations

Weru Weru River Lodge

Moshi Town

Arusha Silver Palm Hotel

Arusha

Suricata Boma Lodge

Mto wa mbu

Selous Safari Lodge

Nyerere National Park

Casa Beach Hotel

Zanzibar

Kigoma Hilltop Hotel

Gombe National Park

Tours & Packages

From $2390 P.p

Chimp and Gorilla   fly-in safari   Walking Safari   Zanzibar