Ngorongoro Crater 1 Day Trip – Experience the World's Largest Intact Caldera

Tour Highlights

• Scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley and local villages

• Full-day game drive inside the Ngorongoro Crater

• High chance of seeing all of the Big Five

• Spectacular views from the crater rim

• Picnic lunch in a designated crater area

• Visit to Lake Magadi and Lerai Forest (inside the crater)

• Return transfer to Arusha or Moshi by evening

Ngorongoro Crater Day Trip – Itinerary

Morning: Pick-up and Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Arusha (or Moshi upon arrangement). After a short briefing by your guide, you’ll set out on a scenic 3-hour drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Along the way, enjoy views of Maasai villages, rolling hills, and the beautiful landscapes of northern Tanzania.

Arrival at the Loduare Gate will be followed by registration and a brief orientation before heading up to the crater rim.

Late Morning to Afternoon: Game Drive Inside the Crater

You’ll descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater—an Eden-like basin packed with wildlife. The crater floor is a haven for game viewing, where you’ll encounter:

• Lions, buffaloes, and elephants in the open plains

• Black rhinos, which are rare and hard to spot elsewhere

• Hippos lounging in freshwater pools

• Flamingos and pelicans on Lake Magadi

• Warthogs, zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles in large herds

• Leopards and hyenas prowling around the Lerai Forest and swamps

Your expert guide will drive through various habitats, stopping for wildlife sightings and photography, while explaining the ecosystem and behaviors of the animals.

You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at the Hippo Pool picnic site or another designated safe area inside the crater.

Late Afternoon: Ascent and Return Journey

After several hours exploring the crater floor, you’ll ascend back to the rim for one final panoramic view before beginning your return trip. You’ll arrive in Arusha or Moshi by early evening, with memories of one of Africa’s greatest natural spectacles.

Meals Included: Picnic lunch and bottled water
Transport: 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Activity Duration: ~10–12 hours total (including travel)

Important Information

• Departure Location: Arusha (or Moshi on request)

• Departure Time: 5:30 AM – 6:00 AM

• Return Time: ~6:30 PM

• Included: Park entry fees, crater service fee, transport, guide, lunch, water

• Excluded: Tips, souvenirs, personal expenses, optional cultural visits

What to Bring:

• Comfortable clothing and walking shoes

• Camera and binoculars

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat

• Warm clothing for early morning and crater rim

• Power bank or spare batteries