National ParkNgorongoro Conservation Area
A volcanic caldera where the Big 5, black rhino, and Maasai culture share one of Africa’s great natural wonders.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of the most extraordinary landscapes in Africa — a vast volcanic caldera on the edge of the Great Rift Valley that shelters a wealth of wildlife, people, and history. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is central to many Tanzania safari itineraries. At its heart lies the famous Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheatre where the Big 5 roam against a backdrop of lakes, grasslands, and forest. Game drives on the crater floor offer sightings of lions, elephants, buffalo, and even the endangered black rhino, making it one of the most reliable places in East Africa to spot the Big 5. Hyenas and other predators add to the dramatic predator action that unfolds daily. The crater rim offers some of the best lodges in Ngorongoro, with sweeping views of the sunrise across this ancient landscape. Beyond the crater, travellers can explore the wider conservation area, which includes the archaeological treasures of Olduvai Gorge, the pastoral Maasai culture, and the seasonal movements of the Great Migration as it crosses between Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Whether you arrive via the Manyara airstrip or overland from Arusha, a Ngorongoro safari blends wildlife, heritage, and culture, making it one of the true natural wonders of the safari world.
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Best time to go to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The best time for a Ngorongoro safari is during the dry season (June–October and December–February), when wildlife is easier to spot on the crater floor and roads are more accessible. These months are especially good for seeing the Big 5, with black rhino among the highlights. The green season (March–May and November) brings lush scenery, fewer vehicles, and excellent photography conditions, though the crater can be misty in the mornings. For those planning a Tanzania safari itinerary, Ngorongoro is a rewarding year-round destination, with the dry months ideal for reliable sightings and the green months offering a quieter, more atmospheric experience.
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Where to stay in Ngorongoro Conservation Area
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Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
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