Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Crater is one of Tanzania’s most distinctive safari landscapes. The crater is a vast volcanic caldera surrounded by steep walls, with grasslands, woodland and water supporting a remarkable concentration of wildlife.

A crater game drive gives you the chance to see large numbers of animals within a relatively compact area. Lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, zebra and other wildlife are regularly seen, while black rhino can also be found in the crater.

The experience is different from the open Serengeti. Instead of spending hours covering huge distances, you spend the day exploring a dramatic enclosed landscape where wildlife is often easier to locate.

It is also one of the busiest destinations on the northern circuit, which makes timing important. Safari Convoy’s approach can be to get onto the crater floor early and make the most of the quieter hours.

Best for:
Big Five · First-time visitors · Wildlife concentration · Landscapes · Short safari stays