Ngorongoro Conservation Area

From $70.80 per person Small groups, expert guides

Overview

Brief History

Established in 1959, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area spans 8,292 km² in northern Tanzania. Managed by the NCAA, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1979) and a unique multiple land-use area where Maasai pastoralists coexist with wildlife. The Ngorongoro Crater, a 260 km² caldera, is a global biodiversity hotspot.

Climate and Accessibility

Accessible by road from Arusha (180 km, 3-4 hours) or charter flights to Ndutu airstrip. The dry season (June-October) is best for wildlife viewing, with temperatures of 15-25°C. The wet season (November-April) brings 500-800 mm rainfall, enhancing greenery but making some roads slippery.

Highlights

  • Ngorongoro Crater
  • Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino)
  • Olduvai Gorge
  • Maasai culture
  • Over 500 bird species
  • Empakai Crater
Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater

Maasai Village

Maasai Village

Tourism Activities

  • Crater Game Drive: Spot the Big Five and wildebeest in the Ngorongoro Crater.

  • Cultural Tours: Visit Maasai bomas to learn about their traditions.

  • Archaeological Tours: Explore Olduvai Gorge, a key hominid fossil site.

  • Walking Safari: Trek Empakai Crater or highlands with Maasai guides.

Accommodation

  • Public campsites with basic facilities (flush/pit toilets, showers).

  • Luxury lodges like Ngorongoro Serena Lodge and andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge.

  • Tented camps such as Lemala Ngorongoro Camp.

Note: Reserve early through NCAA or your tour operator.
Campsite

Campsite

Luxury Lodge

Luxury Lodge

Pricing

Entry fees: $70.80/adult/day (year-round). Crater service fee: $295/vehicle/day. Camping: $35.40/adult/night. Concession fee: $59/adult/night for lodges/camps. Payments via credit card or NCAA smart card. Click here to view our packages or request a tailored tour below.


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Customer Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera.

Most nationalities require a visa for Tanzania. Check with your embassy.

Yes, campsites are secure with trained staff and fenced areas where needed.

June–October for dry season and wildlife viewing; January–February for calving season.