Ngorongoro Crater is home to one of the densest animal populations found in Africa, renowned both for its geological importance and for being a natural wildlife reserve.
The main appeal of the world famous Ngorongoro Crater is its high concentration of wild animals in a relatively small area. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Crater was formed 2-3 million years ago when a volcano exploded and collapsed in on itself. With its 2,000 foot high walls, very few animals migrate in and out of the crater making it one of the densest animal populations found in Africa.
The best time to visit:
June to October (dry season)
+ Sightings of wildlife more likely in the shorter grass
+ Warm and sunny, with very little rain
+ Fewer mosquitoes result in lower risk of malaria
- The Ngorongoro crater is popular during this period and can be very crowded
- It can get very cold overnight, ensure you pack warm clothing
November to May (wet season)
+ The Ngorongoro Crater offers spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities all year round
+ Luscious green landscapes
+ April and May is low season, the region is much quieter during this period
+ Excellent time of year for keen birdwatchers due to the presence of migratory birds
- Peak wet season is March to May with heavy downpours frequent
- It can get very cold overnight, ensure you pack warm clothing
At a glance
- An incredible variety of flora and fauna, grown as a consequence of the crater having formed its own ecosystem.
- Yellow fever trees in the south and pods of hippo wallowing their days away in the east.
- The much drier north is where most of the game reside including the famous resident black rhinos.
