Nature Responsible Safari

Ngorongoro Crater day trip

Destinations

Ngorongoro Day trip Itinerary

A day trip to the Ngorongoro Crater, located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania, offers an incredible opportunity to witness a concentration of wildlife in a breathtaking setting. Here’s a suggested day trip itinerary to maximize your experience:

Morning:

  1. Early Departure: Start your day early by leaving your accommodations in Arusha or nearby areas. The drive from Arusha to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area takes about 3-4 hours, so it’s essential to get an early start.

  2. Gate Entry: Arrive at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area gate, where you’ll need to pay the necessary entry fees and obtain any required permits. Make sure you have all the paperwork in order before you reach the gate.

  3. Descent into the Crater: After passing through the gate, you’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater itself. The drive down the steep and winding road is an experience in itself, with stunning views.

Late Morning:

  1. Game Drive in the Crater: Once inside the crater, embark on a game drive. The Ngorongoro Crater is often referred to as the “Garden of Eden” due to its remarkable concentration of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the “Big Five,” including lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros, as well as various other animals like zebras, wildebeests, hippos, and countless bird species.

Lunch:

  1. Picnic Lunch: Find a designated picnic area within the crater for a lunch break. Enjoy a packed lunch with the company of the resident hippos and the stunning crater backdrop.

Afternoon:

  1. Continued Game Drive: Resume your game drive after lunch, exploring different areas of the crater. The late afternoon is a fantastic time for wildlife viewing, as many animals become more active during this period.

Late Afternoon:

  1. Ascent from the Crater: Begin your journey back up to the crater rim as the day winds down. This drive offers a chance to enjoy the panoramic views of the Ngorongoro Crater.

Evening:

  1. Return to Arusha: Arrive back in Arusha in the evening, concluding your day trip to the Ngorongoro Crater.