Formed by the collapse of a volcano millions of years ago, the Ngorongoro Crater is a vast bowl-shaped depression with walls towering up to 600 meters high. The crater floor covers an area of approximately 260 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, swamps, and soda lakes. Its unique topography and abundant water sources create an ideal environment for wildlife, resulting in one of the highest densities of wildlife in Africa.

Ngorongoro Crater is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and unparalleled concentrations of wildlife. The crater is home to an estimated 25,000 large animals, including all of the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros – as well as numerous other species such as hippos, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, and cheetahs. The crater’s soda lakes are inhabited by flocks of flamingos, adding a splash of color to the landscape.

Safari drives are the primary activity in Ngorongoro Crater, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the crater’s diverse habitats and encounter its abundant wildlife. Experienced guides lead game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, traversing the crater floor and searching for elusive predators and iconic herbivores. The crater’s relatively compact size and high density of wildlife ensure that visitors have excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year.

In addition to game drives, visitors to Ngorongoro Crater can also enjoy guided walking safaris along the crater rim, providing panoramic views of the crater floor and surrounding landscapes. Cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages offer insights into traditional Maasai culture and way of life, allowing visitors to learn about local customs, traditions, and crafts.