Day Tour to Ngorongoro Crater

Tour Overview:

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the crater is home to a vast diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five. A day tour to Ngorongoro Crater offers an unparalleled safari experience in a unique and stunning setting.

Itinerary Details:

Early Morning:

• Pickup from Hotel: Depart from your hotel in Arusha early in the morning (around 5:00 AM) for the drive to Ngorongoro Crater. The early start ensures you maximize your time in the crater.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy the scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley and up into the highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Mid-Morning:

• Crater Descent: Arrive at the crater rim and take in the breathtaking views before descending into the crater. The descent takes about 20-30 minutes.
• Game Drive: Begin your game drive on the crater floor, where you can expect to see a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, hippos, and numerous antelope species. The crater’s unique ecosystem supports a dense population of wildlife, offering excellent viewing opportunities.

Late Morning:

• Lake Magadi: Visit Lake Magadi, a shallow alkaline lake on the crater floor, known for its flamingos and other waterbirds. This is a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
• Hippo Pool: Stop by the hippo pool to observe these large mammals wallowing in the water.

Midday:

• Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a packed picnic lunch at a designated picnic site within the crater. Relax and take in the stunning surroundings while listening to the sounds of the wildlife.

Afternoon:

• Leisurely Game Drive: Continue your game drive, exploring different areas of the crater floor. Look out for predators like lions, hyenas, and the elusive black rhinoceros.
• Crater Ascent: In the late afternoon, ascend back to the crater rim, enjoying the panoramic views one last time.

Late Afternoon:

• Return Drive: Begin the drive back to Arusha, with a chance to reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.
• Hotel Drop-Off: Arrive back at your hotel in Arusha by early evening (around 6:00 PM).

Highlights:

• Witness the dense wildlife population of the Ngorongoro Crater
• See the Big Five in one of the unique safari settings in the world
• Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the crater rim
• Picnic lunch in a stunning natural setting
• Birdwatching at Lake Magadi

Tips:

• Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
• Don’t forget your camera or binoculars for wildlife and birdwatching.
• Pack a light jacket, as it can be cool in the early morning and late afternoon.

A day tour to the Ngorongoro Crater offers a compact yet comprehensive safari experience, showcasing this remarkable natural wonder’s rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.