Safari in national park: Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers one of the most dramatic safari destinations in Africa. This full-day trip from Arusha allows you to descend into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera—home to nearly 30,000 animals including the Big Five. With its rich diversity of wildlife, scenic beauty, and short travel time from Arusha, this is one of the most rewarding day trips available in Tanzania.
Departing early from Arusha, the journey to the crater rim offers scenic views of highland farms and the Great Rift Valley. After arriving, you’ll descend 600 meters into the crater for a thrilling game drive. Inside the crater, the lush grasslands and freshwater lakes attract elephants, lions, hippos, zebras, and flamingos. You may even spot a rare black rhino if you’re lucky.
Though just a one-day safari, Ngorongoro Crater delivers a complete wildlife experience in a condensed area. It’s ideal for travelers short on time who want to witness East Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife all in a single day.
Trip Highlights
- Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Descend into the world’s largest unbroken caldera
- Chance to see the Big Five in one day
- Spectacular crater views and landscapes
- Flamingos, hippos, lions, and more
Trip Features
Start Date
Can start any day
Duration
1 Day
Comfort
Can be optimized
Tour Type
Private Tour
Tour Plan
Customizable
Itinerary
Transport
Toyota Landcruser
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Airport
Kilimanjaro Int.
Airport
Day Itinerary
Arusha – Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha
Morning:
You’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Arusha at 5:30 AM for the scenic 3.5-hour drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Along the way, enjoy views of rural Tanzanian villages, Maasai herders, and volcanic hills. Arrive at the crater rim around 9:00 AM, where you’ll begin your descent into the 600-meter-deep caldera for a morning game drive. As you explore the crater floor, you’ll likely spot lions, buffaloes, wildebeests, hyenas, warthogs, and abundant birdlife along Lake Magadi.
Lunch:
At around 12:30 PM, break for a packed lunch at the designated picnic site beside the Hippo Pool, a popular spot where hippos wallow in muddy waters and elephants may wander nearby. This is a relaxing and scenic moment in the heart of the crater where you can enjoy your meal surrounded by wildlife and panoramic views.
Afternoon:
After lunch, continue with a final game drive through the crater’s western side, where leopards and rhinos are sometimes seen. Capture last-minute photos and enjoy the diverse habitats before beginning your ascent at around 2:30 PM. Begin the return drive to Arusha by 3:00 PM, arriving at your accommodation around 6:30 PM, concluding a truly unforgettable day in one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders.
- Accommodation: N/A
- Meal Plan: Lunch
Trip Cost Include
- Transport to and from the park
Comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing. - Professional driver-guide
Experienced and knowledgeable guides who know the parks inside and out. - Park fees and VAT
All entrance fees, conservation charges, and government taxes are covered. - First aid kit & emergency support
Every vehicle is equipped with a first aid kit; emergency support available when needed. - Rescue support vehicle (if needed)
Backup vehicle available in case of mechanical issues or emergencies. - Packed lunch or picnic-style hot lunch
Freshly prepared meals tailored for your safari, with vegetarian and dietary options available. - Bottled drinking water
Provided throughout the trip to keep you hydrated during game drives. - Binoculars and guidebooks (on request)
Enhance your wildlife viewing experience with optional binoculars and field guides. - Cooler box for drinks and snacks
Keeps refreshments chilled during your day adventure. - Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Complimentary transfers from Arusha, Moshi, or your lodge.
Trip Cost Does Not Include
Drinks at the Hotel – Beverages consumed before or after your safari at your accommodation are not included.
Personal Belongings – Please take care of your personal items; we are not liable for loss or damage.
Tips for the Crew – Gratuities for your driver-guide and support staff are not included and are left to your discretion.
Taxi Service – Transfers outside of the scheduled safari pickup/drop-off are not covered.
Health Insurance – We strongly recommend arranging personal travel and health insurance before your trip.
Flight Tickets – Domestic or international airfares are not part of the day trip package.
Gear Add-ons
Enhance Your Day Trip Safari Experience with Optional Gear Add-ons
All equipment is subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
Binoculars – $10 per day
Get a closer look at wildlife with high-quality binoculars—ideal for spotting birds and distant animals.
Safari Blanket – $5 per blanket
Stay warm during early morning game drives with a soft, cozy safari blanket.
Cooler Box with Bottled Drinks – $15 per trip
Enjoy chilled beverages throughout your safari with a fully stocked cooler box.
Photography Bean Bag – $8 per trip
Perfect for stabilizing your camera while shooting wildlife from the vehicle window.
Child Safety Seat – $10 per seat
Ensure your little ones are safe and comfortable with a professionally fitted car seat.
Thermal Lunch Pack – $12 per person
Upgrade your picnic with a gourmet thermal lunch including hot meals, fresh fruit, and snacks.
Portable Power Bank – $5 per day
Keep your phone or camera charged all day long with a durable, high-capacity power bank.
Our day trip vehicles come equipped with standard safari amenities. If you’d like to enhance comfort during your game drives or picnic stops, optional gear add-ons—such as blankets, binoculars, and gourmet lunch packs—are available at an extra cost as listed above. Early booking is recommended to ensure availability.
Transfers
- Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) to Moshi – $50
- Moshi to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) – $50
- Arusha to Moshi – $100
- Moshi to Arusha – $100
Book Tour
Our Clients Testimonials
For questions or booking inquiries, call +255 713 928 045 or contact us.
