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Ngorongoro Conservation Area
A Wildlife Kingdom in a Giant Volcanic Crater

Ngorongoro isn’t just another safari stop — it’s the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world, with its own thriving ecosystem. Inside this vast natural amphitheatre, 260 km² wide, over 26,000 large mammals wander freely, making it one of the easiest places in Africa to spot the Big Five in a single day.

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But the magic doesn’t end at the crater floor. The wider 8,292 km² Ngorongoro Conservation Area — about a quarter the size of Belgium — is a landscape of spectacular highland views, remote valleys, and open plains. It’s also home to Ndutu, famous for its part in the Great Migration and the dramatic predator action during calving season.

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The name “Ngorongoro” comes from the melodic clanging of Maasai cowbells — “ngoro ngoro” — a sound that still echoes across the highlands as you pass herdsmen draped in red shúkàs (Maasai), guiding cattle against a backdrop of endless views. Between encounters with Maasai communities, watching rhinos graze under the shadow of the crater rim, and the jaw-dropping mix of wildlife and landscapes, it’s no wonder photographers fall in love with this place.

Ngorongoro Crater - ReWild Away.jpg

Travel Tip

  • Arrive early — the morning light turns the crater golden, wildlife is most active, and you’ll have those magical moments before most visitors arrive.

What to Do

  • Game drives in the crater — Big Five in a day? Test your luck!

  • Day hikes to Empakaai or Olmoti Crater for a mix of wildlife and breathtaking views.

  • Multi-day trek from Empakaai to Lake Natron along the Great Rift Valley.

  • Explore Ndutu during migration season for unforgettable predator action.

  • Visit a remote Maasai village to experience traditional culture.

When to Visit

Wildlife is here year-round thanks to permanent water, but each season offers its own spectacle:

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  • June–October: Dry season with clear, open views and easy wildlife spotting.

  • November–May: Green season with vibrant landscapes, baby animals, and fewer crowds.

How to Get to Ngorongoro

  • By road: Around 3 hours from Arusha or 1 hour from Karatu.

  • By air: Fly into Lake Manyara or Ndutu airstrip, then drive to the crater rim.

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