Ngorongoro Crater Safari Trip

Safari summary

Looking for an extraordinary wildlife experience in just one day? A Ngorongoro Crater day trip is the ultimate safari escape for travelers short on time but eager for a world-class adventure. Departing from Arusha, this full-day tour takes you into the heart of one of Africa’s most stunning natural wonders and wildlife-rich environments.

Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” it’s home to over 25,000 wild animals including the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and black rhinos. Its enclosed ecosystem allows for incredible wildlife sightings all year round.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a small group, this safari promises a remarkable day of breathtaking views, unforgettable wildlife, and expert-guided exploration—all in one trip.

What to Expect on Ngorongoro Crater Day Trip
Convenient Departure from Arusha
Your day starts early with a pick-up from your Arusha hotel or airport. The drive to Ngorongoro takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, passing through scenic landscapes, traditional Maasai villages, and highland farms.

Incredible Wildlife Viewing
Descend 600 meters into the crater for a guided game drive across various habitats, including open grasslands, swamps, forests, and Lake Magadi. This compact ecosystem supports a high concentration of wildlife, offering a real chance to see lions hunting, elephants roaming, hippos wallowing, and rhinos grazing—all in one place.

Scenic Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a packed lunch near the famous hippo pool. This rest stop allows you to soak in the views and sounds of nature before continuing your afternoon game drive.

Afternoon Safari & Return
After more game viewing in the afternoon, you’ll ascend the crater wall and begin your journey back to Arusha, arriving in the early evening—just in time to relax and reflect on a day well spent.

Ngorongoro Crater Day Trip Details at a Glance
- Pick-up location: Arusha
- Departure time: 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM
- Return time: Around 6:00 PM
- Travel time: 3.5 to 4 hours each way
- Game drive duration: 5 to 6 hours inside the crater
- Vehicle type: 4x4 open-roof safari jeep
- Included: Transport, professional driver-guide, park fees, crater entry, picnic lunch, bottled water
- Excluded: Tips, personal items, travel insurance

Why Choose a Ngorongoro Crater Day Trip?
- Ideal for tight travel schedules
- Great chances of seeing the Big Five
- Breathtaking landscapes and photo opportunities
- Guided by experienced, friendly safari experts
- Hassle-free, all-inclusive travel from Arusha

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Easy activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Ngorongoro Crater
	Accesibility	This tour is modifiable for those with limited mobility.

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Bird watching—with professional guide
• Photography safari—with professional guide

What’s included?

• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Accommodation
• Internal flights
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas