Ngorongoro crater day tour
Ultimate 1-Day Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour from Arusha is perfect for witnessing Tanzania’s rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes in just one day. Explore the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders. Descend into the lush volcanic caldera to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, zebras, and flamingos in one of the most concentrated and scenic wildlife areas on the continent.
Tanzania
1 Day Trip
Leisurely
Game Drive
2,200m (7,200 ft)
Jun-Oct, Dec-March
Not Included
Lunch Included
Arusha Town
Country
Tanzania
1 Day Trip
Leisurely
Game Drive
2,200m (7,200 ft)
Jun-Oct, Dec-March
Not Included
Lunch Included
Trip Highlights
- Explore the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, the largest intact volcanic caldera on Earth.
- Enjoy a full-day game drive in one of Africa’s most densely populated wildlife areas.
- Spot the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards all in one location.
- Marvel at stunning crater views and rich, diverse landscapes from forested rim to grassy plains.
- Observe flamingos and hippos at Lake Magadi, a seasonal soda lake at the crater’s center.
- Capture unforgettable photos of Maasai herders grazing livestock near the crater rim.
- Travel comfortably from Arusha and experience one of Tanzania’s most legendary destinations in a single day.
Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour Overview
Join Hike Kilimanjaro for an unforgettable full-day safari to the legendary Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most spectacular natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located just a few hours from Arusha, this world-renowned destination offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Tanzania.
Your Ngorongoro day trip begins with a scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley and lush highlands before descending 600 meters (2,000 feet) into the crater. Home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five, rare black rhinos, and flocks of flamingos, Ngorongoro offers a safari experience unlike any other. With breathtaking scenery and expert guides from Hike Kilimanjaro, this one-day adventure is ideal for travelers seeking a high-impact safari in limited time.
Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour Itinerary
Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater
Pick-up from your hotel (06:00–07:00 am). Your Hike Kilimanjaro safari guide will collect you early in the morning from your hotel in Arusha in a private 4×4 safari vehicle. You’ll receive a packed picnic lunch and bottled drinking water for the day. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley and the lush highlands of Karatu en route to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Arrival at Ngorongoro Conservation Area Gate
Upon arrival, your guide will complete the necessary entry formalities. From here, you’ll ascend to the crater rim, stopping for a spectacular panoramic view of the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world.
Descend into the Crater for Game Viewing
Begin your descent approximately 600 meters into the crater floor for an unforgettable game drive. The crater is home to one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including black rhinos, lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, hyenas, and hundreds of bird species.
Picnic Lunch at a Designated Crater Viewpoint
Enjoy your packed lunch in one of the crater’s scenic picnic sites, often overlooking Lake Magadi where flamingos and hippos are frequently seen. It’s the perfect place to relax and take in the incredible natural surroundings.
Afternoon Game Drive in the Crater
Continue exploring the diverse habitats of the crater floor, including forests, open plains, swamps, and lakes. With your expert guide, you’ll visit the best spots for wildlife viewing and photography.
Return Drive to Arusha
After your safari experience in the crater, ascend back to the crater rim and begin the journey back to Arusha. Soak in views of local villages, coffee plantations, and the highland scenery along the way.
Drop-off at Your Hotel
Arrive back in Arusha by late afternoon or early evening. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or preferred location, marking the end of a truly memorable Ngorongoro day adventure.
- Lunch and drinking water included
This full-day Ngorongoro Crater safari is the perfect add-on to any Tanzania itinerary. Whether you’re arriving early, staying a few extra days in Arusha or Moshi, or simply looking for a quick but unforgettable safari, this one-day tour offers a chance to experience one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Ideal for travelers with limited time, it provides exceptional game viewing and dramatic landscapes just a few hours from the city.
Price For Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour
Number of Pax
Price Per Person
1
USD 780 pp
2
USD 430 pp
3 to 4
USD 320 pp
5 to 7
USD 250 pp
Inquire Now
Looking for personalized experience? We organize privately guided journey which is mainly designed to fit your taste and interest. Please fill out the form below to get started.
Price Includes
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide
- Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Arusha
- Bottled drinking water throughout the trip
- Entrance fees to Tarangire National Park
- Game drive in Tarangire National Park
- Packed picnic lunch
- Government taxes
Price Excludes
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
- Tips and gratuities for guide/driver
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Travel insurance
Traveler Reviews
These full and frank reviews are from travelers who have traveled with Hike Kilimanjaro previously. The reviews and experiences shown here are from reputable travel websites like TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trust Pilot, etc.
Trip Photos
What makes this trip
different?
Hike Kilimanjaro
Company
- At Hike Kilimanjaro, we are committed to supporting the communities surrounding our trekking routes and wildlife safaris. We believe that tourism should be a force for good, and we actively give back to those who help make your adventure possible.
- A portion of our profits goes toward providing food, clothing, books, pens, and other essentials to orphaned children helping improve access to education and basic needs. By traveling with us, you directly contribute to creating a positive impact in local lives.
Sustainability and Responsible Tourism
- Of the few Travelife Certified companies in Tanzania, Hike Kilimanjaro is one. We respect the procedures for sustainable tourism. Our excursions are socially and environmentally conscious, leaving the lowest possible impact in the Tanzanians.
- 100% of Hike Kilimanjaro Company's staff members are natives of the regions where our trips are organized. It is one of our sustainable and responsible efforts to help local communities, support small businesses, and promote regional culture and way of life.
Related Information
When is the Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Crater?
The best time to visit the Ngorongoro Crater is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is most rewarding. During these months, animals are easier to spot due to sparse vegetation and gather around the few remaining water sources. However, the green season from November to May offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and great photographic opportunities. The crater is a year-round destination due to its enclosed ecosystem and permanent wildlife populations.
How Far is Ngorongoro from Arusha?
Ngorongoro Crater is located approximately 190 kilometers (118 miles) west of Arusha. The drive typically takes 3.5 to 4 hours, passing through scenic highlands, farmlands, and the bustling town of Karatu. The route offers a beautiful introduction to northern Tanzania’s diverse geography and rural life.
What Wildlife Can You Expect to See during Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour?
The Ngorongoro Crater is often referred to as “Africa’s Eden” due to its extraordinary density of wildlife. Visitors commonly see the Big Five elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, and black rhino within a single day. Other animals include zebras, wildebeests, hippos, hyenas, warthogs, jackals, elands, and a variety of antelope species. Birdlife is also abundant, with flamingos on Lake Magadi and raptors soaring over the crater walls.
Is a Day Tour Enough to Experience Ngorongoro?
Yes, a well-planned day trip offers an exceptional safari experience. Since the crater floor is compact and home to a permanent wildlife population, you can cover key viewing areas in a single day. With an early departure and an expert guide from Hike Kilimanjaro, you’ll have plenty of time for exploration, wildlife viewing, and photography.
Can I Combine Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour with Another Park in One Day?
While it’s technically possible to combine Ngorongoro with Lake Manyara in a single day, it’s not recommended. The Ngorongoro Crater is best experienced on its own to fully appreciate its unique landscape, abundant wildlife, and immersive game drives. Trying to do two parks in one day can feel rushed and limits your time in each location.
Is the Ngorongoro Crater worth visiting in one day?
Absolutely. The Ngorongoro Crater offers one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa within a relatively small area, making it ideal for a day trip. You can see diverse species including the Big Five in just a few hours of game driving.
What makes Ngorongoro Crater unique compared to other parks?
Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. Its enclosed ecosystem supports thousands of animals year-round, offering unmatched game viewing in a breathtaking setting unlike any other safari destination.
Are there restrooms and picnic sites inside the Ngorongoro Crater?
Yes, there are designated picnic areas and basic restroom facilities on the crater floor, including at the Ngoitoktok Springs picnic site. These locations offer scenic spots for lunch and breaks during the game drive.
Can children go on a Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour?
Yes, Ngorongoro Crater is family-friendly and suitable for children. The shorter distances between wildlife sightings and the spectacular scenery make it an engaging and comfortable experience for families traveling with kids.
Do you need a guide for Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour?
Yes, guided safaris are required inside the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. A knowledgeable guide enhances your experience by helping you spot animals, explaining the area’s geology, and navigating the designated routes efficiently and safely.
What Should You Pack for the Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour?
For a comfortable and enjoyable Ngorongoro day safari, pack:
- Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors
- A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Binoculars and a camera with extra batteries
- Insect repellent
- A light jacket for early mornings or unexpected weather changes
Why Choose Hike Kilimanjaro for Your Ngorongoro Crater Day Tour?
At Hike Kilimanjaro, we go beyond the ordinary. Our Ngorongoro day trip includes a professional English-speaking guide, private 4×4 safari vehicle and convenient pickup from your Arusha hotel.
We focus on safety, comfort, and authenticity, ensuring you get a high-quality experience even on a short trip. As a certified sustainable travel company, we also support local communities and conservation efforts across Tanzania.
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- +255 752 633 454
- +255 692 406 444
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