Day Trip to Ngorongoro Crater

Early Morning Departure Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Arusha or nearby towns. The drive to Ngorongoro Crater takes you through the beautiful Tanzanian countryside, offering scenic views along the way. Arriving at the crater rim by mid-morning ensures you have ample time to explore this remarkable area. Descent into the Crater Upon reaching the crater rim, you'll begin your descent into the Ngorongoro Crater. The descent road provides breathtaking views of the crater floor, which spans approximately 100 square miles. This massive caldera is home to a dense concentration of wildlife, offering some of the best game viewing in Africa. Morning Game Drive Once inside the crater, you'll embark on a morning game drive. The Ngorongoro Crater is teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses. The crater floor also hosts large populations of zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, and various antelope species. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the numerous bird species found in the area, including flamingos around Lake Magadi. Picnic Lunch at Ngoitoktok Springs Around midday, you'll enjoy a picnic lunch at Ngoitoktok Springs, one of the designated picnic sites within the crater. This site offers a serene environment with hippos lounging in the water and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It's a perfect place to relax and take in the natural beauty while enjoying your meal. Afternoon Game Drive After lunch, you'll continue with an afternoon game drive. This is an excellent time to explore different areas of the crater floor, including the Lerai Forest, home to elephants and other wildlife. The afternoon light provides ideal conditions for photography, capturing the diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Ascent to the Crater Rim and Return Journey In the late afternoon, you'll begin your ascent back to the crater rim. The ascent road offers more spectacular views of the crater and its surroundings. You'll then start your journey back to Arusha or your starting point. The drive back allows you to reflect on the day's adventures and the incredible sights you've witnessed. You'll arrive back in town by early evening, concluding your day trip to Ngorongoro Crater.