"Crater Wonders and Wildlife Spectacle"
Ngorongoro Conservation Area Tourism
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is in Tanzania, west of Arusha City, covering about 8,292 square kilometres. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, its main highlight is the impressive Ngorongoro Crater, known as the largest intact volcanic caldera globally. The crater is home to a diverse wildlife population of around 25,000 animals, including ungulates, four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros), and other large mammals.
The park is famous for having one of the densest populations of Masai lions and plays a vital role in supporting the Great Migration of wildebeest and other herbivores. In addition to the Ngorongoro Crater, the area features diverse ecosystems like mountain forests, woodlands, grasslands, lakes, and swamps. It also includes two major rivers, Oldupai Gorge, and Laetoli, adding to its geological and paleontological importance.
Entry Fees to Ngorongoro Conservation Area:
Park Entry Fees:
EAC: Adult – TSH 10,000, Child – TSH 2,000
Residents: Adult - $30, Child - $10
Non-EAC: Adult - $60, Child - $20
Special Activities & Others:
Walking Safaris:
Short Walks (1-4 hours):
Tanzanian Citizens: Adult – TSH 5,000, Child – TSH 2,500
EAC: Adult – TSH 10,000, Child – TSH 5,000
Non-EAC: Adult - $20, Child - $10
Long Walks (above 4 hours):
Tanzanian Citizens: Adult – TSH 10,000, Child – TSH 5,000
EAC: Adult – TSH 20,000, Child – TSH 10,000
Non-EAC: Adult - $25, Child - $15
Endero Trail and Elephant Caves:
Tanzanian Citizens: Adult – TSH 5,000, Child – TSH 2,500
EAC: Adult – TSH 10,000, Child – TSH 5,000
Non-EAC: Adult - $15, Child - $10
Ol Duvai Gorge Visit:
Tanzanian Citizens: Adult – TSH 5,000, Child – TSH 1,000
EAC: Adult – $20, Child – $10
Non-EAC: Adult - $30, Child - $10
Hot Air Balloon Safari (above 8 years): EAC – TSH 40,000, Non-EAC - $33.50
Horse Riding Safari: EAC – TSH 10,000, Non-EAC - $10
Mountain Biking Safari: EAC – TSH 10,000, Non-EAC - $15
Safari Crew:
Tour Operator – TSH 1,500, Camping Crew – TSH 1,500, Tour Guide – TSH 1,500
Entrance Gates to Ngorongoro Conservation Area:
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area has four primary entrance gates:
1. Loduare Gate: The Loduare Gate is closest to the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the main attractions within the conservation area. The gate is located approximately 180 kilometres (112 miles) from Arusha City.
2. Seneto Gate: The Seneto Gate is closest to the western side of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering access to areas like Empakaai Crater and Olmoti Crater. The gate is situated approximately 180 kilometres (112 miles) from Arusha City.
3. Naabi Hill Gate: The Naabi Hill Gate is situated close to the southern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and serves as the main entrance gate for visitors coming from the Serengeti National Park. The gate is located approximately 185 kilometres (115 miles) from Arusha City. Travellers arriving from the Serengeti National Park or planning to combine a visit to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with a safari in the Serengeti should use the Naabi Hill Gate.
4. Lemala Gate: The Lemala Gate is situated in the eastern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, providing access to Lemala Hill and the eastern plains. The gate is located approximately 130 kilometres (81 miles) from Arusha City. It is also a convenient option for travellers coming from the town of Karatu.
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Things to do in Ngorongoro Conservation Area
1. Game Drives Safaris
Game drives in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area take place in various locations, including the Ngorongoro Crater, Lerai Forest, and Lerai Plains. To reach these areas, visitors can join guided game dr (Read More)ives organized by safari operators, which typically start from lodges and camps within the conservation area. During game drives, visitors have the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, including the Big Five, and engage in birdwatching activities. The safaris can last for either half-day or full-day, approximately 4 to 6 hours, and the best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon to witness optimal wildlife sightings.
2. Walking Safaris
Exploring the Ngorongoro Conservation Area on foot is possible through walking safaris conducted in various locations such as the Empakaai Crater, Olmoti Crater, and Lerai Forest. To participate in wa (Read More)lking safaris, visitors can join guided tours organized by safari operators, and experienced rangers or Maasai guides lead the treks. During these safaris, visitors can observe the diverse flora and fauna, as well as smaller wildlife, in their natural habitat. Walking safaris typically last for half a day, approximately 4 to 5 hours, with the best time to embark on the safaris being early in the morning for clear views and cooler temperatures.
3. Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is located in the central part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It can be accessed from all main entrance gates, with Loduare Gate and Naabi Hill Gate being the closest optio (Read More)ns. Activities in the crater include game drives to witness diverse wildlife, including the Big Five, and birdwatching. The duration of the safaris can be either half-day or full-day, and the best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for optimal wildlife sightings.
4. Empakaai Crater
Empakaai Crater is situated in the western part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and is accessible from the Seneto Gate. The main activity in this area is hiking to the crater floor, where visitors (Read More) can see a soda lake and flamingos. The hike typically takes half a day (approximately 4-5 hours), and the best time to visit is early morning for clear views and cooler temperatures.
5. Olduvai Gorge
Located in the eastern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Olduvai Gorge can be accessed from either Naabi Hill Gate or Loduare Gate. The primary activity here is taking guided tours to explore (Read More)the archaeological site, which showcases early human history. The duration of the tours is usually 1-2 hours, and the best time to visit is in the morning or afternoon for informative tours and pleasant weather.
6. Olmoti Crater
Olmoti Crater is found in the eastern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and can be accessed from the Lemala Gate. The main activity here is hiking to the crater rim, offering scenic views and e (Read More)xcellent birdwatching opportunities. The hike typically takes half a day (approximately 4-5 hours), and the best time to visit is early morning for clear views and active birdlife.
7. Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Hot air balloon safaris in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area offer the park's stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife from a bird's-eye view. The launch site is typically in the vicinity of the Ngoro (Read More)ngoro Crater. Visitors need to book the hot air balloon safari in advance through reputable safari operators, and on the day of the safari, they are transported from their lodges or camps to the launch site early in the morning, before sunrise. The best time to experience hot air balloon safaris is during the early morning hours when the wildlife is most active, and the sun rises.
8. Lerai Forest
Lerai Forest is scattered throughout the Ngorongoro Crater and can be explored during game drives in the crater. The main activities here include game viewing, especially for elephant herds, and birdw (Read More)atching. The duration of the visit is flexible and depends on the game drive schedule. The best time to visit is throughout the day for wildlife sightings in the forested areas.
9. Lake Magadi
Situated in the southern part of the Ngorongoro Crater floor, Lake Magadi can be visited during game drives in the crater. The main activities here are game viewing, birdwatching, and observing flamin (Read More)gos at the alkaline lake. The duration of the visit is flexible and depends on the game drive schedule. The best time to visit is late afternoon for beautiful reflections of the surrounding landscape in the lake.
10. Lerai Plains
Lerai Plains are located in the southern part of the Ngorongoro Crater and can be explored during game drives in the crater. The primary activities here include game viewing and spotting large herds o (Read More)f wildebeest and zebras. The duration of the visit is flexible and depends on the game drive schedule. The best time to visit is throughout the day, but early morning offers a chance to see active wildlife.
11. Birdwatching Safaris
Birdwatching safaris in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are conducted in various locations, especially around Lake Magadi and Lerai Forest. Safari guides or specialized birdwatching guides lead these (Read More) safaris, and visitors can identify and observe the diverse bird species found in the area, including flamingos, raptors, and waterbirds. The duration of birdwatching safaris is flexible and depends on the specific interests of birdwatchers. Early mornings or late afternoons are considered the best time to embark on these safaris, as they offer active bird activity.
12. Photography Safaris
Photography safaris in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area focus on capturing wildlife, landscapes, and cultural moments. These safaris are led by experienced wildlife photographers or safari guides, and (Read More) visitors can expect to learn photography techniques while exploring the area. The duration of photography safaris is flexible and depends on the photographers' interests and goals. Early mornings and late afternoons are considered the best time to capture the golden hours of photography.
13. Maasai Villages
Various Maasai villages surround the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and visits can be organized through tour operators. The main activities here are cultural tours, interacting with Maasai communities, (Read More) and learning about their traditions. The duration of the visits is typically half a day. The best time to visit is either morning or afternoon for authentic cultural experiences and interactions.
Must Know Before You Travel to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Timings: All park gates, except Seneto gate (closes at 04:00 PM), are open from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM year-round.
- Payment Mode: The entry fee must be paid in the bank (either a Barclays Bank in Arusha or Exim Bank in Karatu), and visitors should carry the payment receipt to the entry gate as cash is not accepted. However, make sure to have US Dollars on hand for other purchases during your time in the park.
- Transit Fee: A transit fee is charged for those passing through the area to visit Serengeti National Park.
- Validity: Safari fees are valid for 24 hours for one entry.
- Vehicle Fee: Daily vehicle fees range from $40 to $300 based on weight, with an additional $200 fee to take the vehicle to the crater.
- ATM: The nearest 24-hour ATM can be found in the town of Karatu on the main road. Bring some cash with you.
- Shop Accessibility: Canteens and souvenir shops are available at Lodoare Gate and Naabi Hill Gate.
- Self-Drive Option: Visitors can self-drive in the conservation area with a 4x4 vehicle, but booking a tour operator is recommended for the best safari experience. If you choose to drive yourself, you'll be required to pay a vehicle fee of $200 in addition to the daily park fee of $60 per person.
- Combining Multiple Parks: Ngorongoro is adjacent to Serengeti, with just under 1.5-hour road distance. Most safari tours include visits to both Ngorongoro and Serengeti. If time permits, you can also combine the visit with Lake Manyara which is 1.5 hours away, and Tarangire National Park which is a 4-hour drive from Ngorongoro.
- Road Conditions: Be aware that the roads from the crater to Serengeti are in poor condition.
- Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed in the park.
- Vaccinations: Ensure you have recommended vaccinations for yellow fever, tetanus, typhoid, polio, and hepatitis, and consider taking anti-malaria prophylactics.
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Top Hotels In Ngorongoro Conservation Area
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Travel Tips for Ngorongoro Crater Exploration
- Choose Accommodation Wisely: Pick lodges on the crater's rim for great views and easy access or stay in Karatu for more range of accommodation options.
- Visiting in April and May: Although some animals may migrate, wildlife is still abundant in the crater during these months. With approximately 20,000 animals residing in the crater year-round, the population doubles during migration. The rainy season in April and May brings lush greenery to the crater and fewer crowds.
- Weather during Dry Peak Season: If you visit during the dry peak season, expect cooler temperatures, especially in Ngorongoro's winter months. Daytime temperatures usually range from the mid to high sixties Fahrenheit, while nighttime temperatures drop to the mid-teens. Bringing a scarf for extra warmth is a good idea.
- Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is customary in Tanzania. Plan to tip around $15 per day for cooks and $40 for driver guides. Being generous with tips is important since it forms a big part of their income.
- Breakfast in the Crater: There are picnic spots where you can briefly step out of the car. Ask your driver to arrange this special breakfast experience at the best locations.
- Early Morning Safaris: Choose early morning safaris for the best wildlife viewing. Animals tend to hide from the heat as the day goes on, and the crater gets busier with visitors. Also, harsh lighting can affect photo quality.
- One-Day Exploration: One day is usually enough to explore Ngorongoro Crater, especially with a guided tour. Local drivers know the best spots for wildlife viewing, so you won't miss out on sightings.
Wildlife in Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- The Ngorongoro Conservation Area boasts approximately 25,000 large animals, mainly ungulates, that inhabit the crater, including four of the Big Five - lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinoceros.
- The crater's ecosystem supports a diverse range of wildlife, with a particularly dense population of lions numbering 62 individuals.
- Other prominent sightings include elephants, hippos, zebras, wildebeests, black rhinos, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and leopards.
- Both black-backed and golden jackals are equally common in the crater, and the density of spotted hyenas is extraordinary.
- The Ngorongoro Conservation Area serves as a vital route for the annual ungulate migration, with 1.7 million wildebeests, 260,000 zebras, and 470,000 gazelles passing through the area between December and June.
- The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 500 recorded bird species spanning various categories.
- Among the notable avian life found here are raptors like the African spoonbill, Augur buzzard, and Verreaux's eagle, waterbirds such as lesser flamingo and greater flamingo, and elegant turacos like Livingstone's turaco and Hartlaub's turaco.
- The park is home to sunbird species like the Eastern double-collared sunbird and scarlet-chested sunbird, as well as widowbird species such as the fan-tailed widowbird and Jackson's widowbird.
- It features sparrows like the Kenya rufous sparrow and francolins, including Hildebrandt's francolin.
- Birdwatchers can also spot the rosy-throated longclaw, weavers like Speke's weaver and rufous-tailed weaver, the white-eyed slaty flycatcher, doves such as the Namaqua dove, and chats like the Northern anteater chat.
- Other remarkable species include the Kori bustard, black-winged lapwing, capped wheatear, red-and-yellow barbet, and Schalow's wheatear.
Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Nearby Places
How to Reach Ngorongoro Conservation Area
How to Reach Overview
Travellers can access the Ngorongoro Conservation Area through domestic flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), followed by a short flight to Lake Manyara Airstrip, the nearest airstrip to the park at about 84 kilometres away. Alternatively, one can opt for a scenic road journey from Arusha covering approximately 200 kilometres and taking around 3-4 hours. Private or shared safari vehicles are available for hire, and guided tours with experienced drivers are also offered for a memorable and convenient trip to the conservation area.
How to reach Ngorongoro Conservation Area by flight
The nearest airports to the conservation area are Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Arusha Airport (ARK). From these airports, visitors can take a domestic flight to Lake Manyara Airstrip, which is the closest airstrip to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area at a distance of 84 kilometres. From Manyara Airstrip, travellers can arrange for a transfer to the park's entrance, which takes about 1-2 hours.
Auric Air and Coastal Aviation provide regular flights to Manyara from Arusha as well as Kilimanjaro. The journey from Arusha to Manyara takes around half an hour to one hour and costs around $250 per person for a round trip. Whereas the flight from Kilimanjaro to Manyara takes around half an hour to one hour and costs around $450 a round-trip per person.
To reach Tanzania, you can book through Skyscanner.
Auric Air and Coastal Aviation provide regular flights to Manyara from Arusha as well as Kilimanjaro. The journey from Arusha to Manyara takes around half an hour to one hour and costs around $250 per person for a round trip. Whereas the flight from Kilimanjaro to Manyara takes around half an hour to one hour and costs around $450 a round-trip per person.
To reach Tanzania, you can book through Skyscanner.
How to reach Ngorongoro Conservation Area by road
Traveling by road is another option to reach the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. From Arusha, the journey takes approximately 3 - 4 hours, covering a distance of about 200 kilometres. The road trip offers scenic views of the Tanzanian countryside and the Great Rift Valley along the A104 and B144 highways. Private and shared safari vehicles are available for hire, and visitors can also opt for guided tours with experienced drivers.
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