Ngorongoro
,Ngorongoro, located in Tanzania, is a breathtaking conservation area known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. It is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, an ancient volcanic caldera that shelters a wide array of animals including lions, elephants, and flamingos. The area is also important for its conservation efforts in protecting endangered species and promoting sustainable tourism.
Visitors can enjoy game drives, cultural encounters with the Maasai people, and the chance to witness the renowned wildebeest migration.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Nzuri sana" - Very good
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Ngorongoro Adventure 1
morning
:Start your day with an early morning game drive through the Ngorongoro Crater. Keep an eye out for the Big Five as the sun rises over the stunning landscape.
afternoon
:Enjoy a packed lunch at a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the crater. Spend the afternoon exploring the diverse ecosystems within the crater floor.
evening
:Return to your lodge for a cozy dinner while reflecting on the day's wildlife encounters. Enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by nature.
Ngorongoro Adventure 2
morning
:Visit a Maasai village and learn about their culture and traditions. Experience a traditional dance and consider a craft purchase to support local artisans.
afternoon
:After lunch, take a guided hike around the crater rim for stunning panoramic views. Capture some breathtaking photos of the diverse flora and fauna.
evening
:Head back to your accommodation and relax by the fire pit. Share stories of your day with fellow travelers while enjoying stargazing in the clear night sky.
Highlights
Good
- Rich biodiversity with unique wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros).
- Stunning landscapes, including a large volcanic caldera, which offers exceptional views and photo opportunities.
- Opportunities for guided safaris and cultural experiences with local Maasai communities.
- Recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its ecological and cultural significance.
- Various lodging options, from luxury lodges to budget campsites, catering to different preferences.
Bad
- High tourist traffic can lead to overcrowding, especially during peak seasons.
- Potential high costs for safaris and accommodations, making it less accessible for budget travelers.
- Limited accessibility and infrastructure compared to other national parks in Tanzania.
- Environmental concerns related to wildlife conservation and habitat preservation due to increased tourism.
- Strict regulations on visitor activities to protect wildlife may limit some travelers' experiences.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Safari Tours
Explore the stunning Ngorongoro Crater and its diverse wildlife through guided safari tours, where you can see the Big Five and other unique species in their natural habitat.
Hiking
Take part in hiking trails around the Ngorongoro Highlands, offering breathtaking views and the chance to see local flora and fauna.
Bird Watching
Discover over 500 bird species in the region, such as flamingos, ostriches, and many others, making it a paradise for bird watchers.
Cultural Tours
Engage with the indigenous Maasai people to learn about their nomadic lifestyle, traditions, and cultural practices in and around Ngorongoro.
Photography
Capture the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant sunsets of Ngorongoro through photography expeditions, ideal for both amateurs and professionals.
Camping
Enjoy an outdoor camping experience under the stars in designated camping areas, offering a more immersive nature experience.
Horseback Riding
Experience the scenic beauty of Ngorongoro on horseback, riding through lush landscapes and getting up close to wildlife.
Nature Walks
Join guided nature walks to learn about the local ecosystem, including plants and small animals, while enjoying the fresh air and stunning views.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Ngorongoro with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Ngorongoro Crater Rim
The Ngorongoro Crater Rim offers stunning panoramic views of the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. The sunrise and sunset views from the rim are especially breathtaking, making it an ideal spot for photography.
Ol Doinyo Lengai
This active volcano, known as the 'Mountain of God' by the Maasai, provides dramatic landscapes and unique photographic opportunities. The view from the summit offers a bird’s-eye perspective of the surrounding plains and Crater.
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge Viewing Deck
The viewing deck at Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge provides a comfortable place to take in the views of the crater below. The lodge’s elevated position allows for great photography of both the crater and the wildlife within it.
Crater Floor
Exploring the Crater floor gives visitors an up-close opportunity to capture images of diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and wildebeest. Early morning game drives provide the best light for photography.
Lemala Ngorongoro Camp
Staying at Lemala Ngorongoro Camp offers exclusive access to the remote parts of the Crater. The camp’s location allows for incredible views of wildlife in their natural habitat, perfect for capturing stunning photos.
Nainokanoka Crater
This smaller yet beautiful crater is less visited and offers unique landscapes, lush grasslands, and rich wildlife. It's an excellent spot for capturing nature and landscape photos away from the crowds.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ugali
A staple maize porridge, often served with a meat or vegetable stew. Can be found at local eateries and lodges across Ngorongoro.
Must-Try!
Nyama Choma
Grilled meat, usually goat or beef, seasoned with local spices. Best enjoyed at roadside grills and local restaurants like Mama's Choma in Karatu town.
Mtori
A hearty dish made from bananas, meat, and spices. Recommended to try at Ngorongoro Farm House restaurant for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ngorongoro better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Karatu Market
Explore the vibrant Karatu Market for an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local snacks like fried plantains and grilled corn-on-the-cob.
Mto wa Mbu Village
Discover a variety of street food vendors offering traditional Tanzanian bites such as samosas, cassava chips, and freshly squeezed sugar cane juice.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress Modestly
In Ngorongoro, it's important to dress conservatively, especially in rural areas. Women are advised to wear long skirts and cover their shoulders, while men should avoid wearing shorts in public settings.
Greetings and Communication
Greetings are an essential part of interactions in Ngorongoro. It is common to greet people with a handshake or by saying 'Jambo' (hello). Take the time to ask about someone's well-being or family, as this shows respect and builds rapport.
Respect for Local Customs
Being mindful of local customs and traditions is crucial. This includes being respectful during ceremonies, understanding the significance of cultural practices, and asking permission before taking photographs of people, particularly from the Maasai community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ngorongoro with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Ngorongoro, it is customary to tip service providers such as hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers. Tipping is often seen as a way to express gratitude for good service. Recommended amounts can vary, but generally, tips of around 10-15% of the total bill are appropriate in restaurants, while guides may receive $10-$20 per day, depending on the level of service.
Payment
Payment in Ngorongoro can be made using cash, which is the preferred method, as many local establishments may not accept credit cards. Tanzanian shillings (TZS) are the main currency, and it's advisable to have enough cash on hand, especially in remote areas. Some places may accept US dollars, but the exchange rate can be less favorable. ATMs are available in larger towns, but it's safer to withdraw money in Arusha before traveling to Ngorongoro.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ngorongoro.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry Season (June to October)
The dry season is considered the best time to visit Ngorongoro. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources, and the weather is generally sunny and pleasant. Expect clear skies, warm days, and cooler nights.
Short Rainy Season (November to December)
This is a transitional period with shorter rain showers. The landscapes become lush and green, making for picturesque scenery. Wildlife is still visible, but some animals may disperse due to the presence of more water. Expect mild temperatures and periodic rainfall.
Green Season (January to March)
During the green season, the crater is vibrant with lush vegetation. This time attracts many migratory birds, and wildlife viewing can be rewarding. However, some areas may be muddy, and temperatures can be humid. Expect rain showers, especially in the afternoons.
Long Rainy Season (April to May)
This season experiences heavy rainfall, making it more challenging to navigate the park. Many roads can become muddy and impassable, which may limit wildlife viewing opportunities. However, the lush landscapes are breathtaking, and this is the best time for birdwatching. Expect cooler temperatures and significant rainfall.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ngorongoro Crater
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most famous hiking and wildlife viewing spots in Tanzania. The crater offers breathtaking landscapes and a chance to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Olduvai Gorge
Known as the 'Cradle of Mankind', Olduvai Gorge is a significant archaeological site located near Ngorongoro. The area has hiking trails that provide stunning views of the gorge and its rich history.
Empakaai Crater
This lesser-known crater is surrounded by pristine forests and boasts a stunning lake at its center. Hiking to Empakaai offers opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the serene environment.
Lakeshore of Lake Natron
Located a bit farther from Ngorongoro but worth the hike, the Trails near Lake Natron offer incredible views of the lake, the active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, and unique flora and fauna.
Simien Mountains
Although a bit farther away, the Simien Mountains provide challenging hikes with spectacular scenery, including jagged peaks and deep valleys, as well as diverse wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ngorongoro through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Ngorongoro by plane.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Located near Moshi, approximately 130 km from Ngorongoro, this is the primary airport serving northern Tanzania and is an important hub for travelers heading to the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park.
Arusha Airport (ARK)
Located in Arusha, about 95 km from Ngorongoro, this airport mainly serves domestic flights, but is a key entry point for tourists visiting the northern circuit of Tanzania.
Dar es Salaam Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)
Located in Dar es Salaam, this is the main international airport in Tanzania, approximately 600 km from Ngorongoro. It serves as a connection point for international travelers before heading to northern Tanzania.
Mwanza Airport (MWZ)
Located in Mwanza, about 150 km from Ngorongoro, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights and serves as another access point for travelers to the Ngorongoro region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Maasai
The Maasai are a semi-nomadic pastoral people known for their distinct customs and dress. They are the predominant ethnic group in the Ngorongoro area and are traditionally cattle herders.
Datoga
The Datoga are a Nilotic ethnic group who primarily engage in agriculture and livestock keeping. They are known for their craftsmanship, particularly in metalwork and pottery.
Arusha
The Arusha people are a Bantu ethnic group that live in the region, and many are involved in agriculture and trade. They are more cosmopolitan and can be found in urban areas.
Chaga
The Chaga are a Bantu ethnic group that mainly reside on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, and although not a majority in Ngorongoro, some are engaged in agriculture in the area.
Iraqw
The Iraqw are another Bantu ethnic group located in the Ngorongoro area and are primarily farmers. They have a rich agricultural heritage and often interact with neighboring groups.
The Soul of Ngorongoro
Discover the essence of Ngorongoro through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
Soccer is extremely popular in Ngorongoro, with local teams and community tournaments being common. It unites players and fans from various backgrounds.
Basketball
Basketball has been gaining popularity among the youth, with makeshift courts found in several areas, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
Netball
Netball is a favorite among women and girls in the community, encouraging participation and providing a platform for female athletes.
Track and Field
Athletics, including running and field events, is encouraged in schools and community programs as a way to promote health and competition.
Cultural Sports
Traditional sports and games, often involving singing and dance, are part of local cultural festivals and events, preserving heritage and community spirit.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
While meat-heavy, many restaurants and lodges offer vegetarian and vegan dishes like vegetable curries, salads, and grilled plantains.
Gluten-Free Options
It's best to communicate your dietary needs in advance, but most places are accommodating and can prepare gluten-free meals upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ngorongoro with these cultural adventures.
