Ngorongoro Crater

★★★ Ngorongoro Crater — The Eighth Wonder of the World

The Ngorongoro Crater is the largest intact and unfilled caldera in the world — a gigantic volcanic crater with a 20 km diameter, 600 m deep walls, and a crater floor of 260 km². 2–3 million years ago, the volcano collapsed in on itself, leaving behind this unique natural theater.

About 25,000 large animals live permanently on the crater floor — the highest predator density in Africa. The mix of grassland, swamp, forest, and soda lake (Lake Magadi with flamingos) provides habitat for practically all East African savanna animals. Particularly important: The crater is home to Tanzania's last black rhinos (about 20–30 animals).

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) is both a UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage Site — the only protected area in Tanzania where people (Maasai) are allowed to live and graze their cattle. The Maasai herders at the crater rim with their red shúkas are part of the iconic image of Ngorongoro.

What you see in the crater

• Lions: About 60–70 lions live permanently in the crater. Often right by the road in the morning.
• Rhinos: The major attraction. Usually at Lerai Forest or near Ngoitokitok Swamp. Bring binoculars!
• Elephants: Large bulls with huge tusks (the crater elephants are famous for their ivory).
• Flamingos: Thousands at the soda lake Lake Magadi — a pink carpet.
• Buffalo, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, jackals, crowned cranes — and with luck, a leopard in Lerai Forest.

Practical Info

The crater fee is high: 295 USD per vehicle (in addition to the entrance fee of 70 USD per person/day). Only 6 hours allowed in the crater (30 min drive down and up each). Starting early (6:00 am) is a must — from 10:00 am, the crater fills with vehicles. Overnight stay at the crater rim in lodges or camps with breathtaking views.