Ngorongoro Tours from Arusha: A Complete Safari Guide

Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa’s most breathtaking safari destinations, often referred to as the “Eden of Africa.” With its stunning landscapes and an incredible density of wildlife, including the Big Five, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Tanzania. If you’re planning a trip, starting your Ngorongoro tour from Arusha is the most convenient and practical option.

This comprehensive guide takes you through everything there is to know regarding Ngorongoro Tours From Arusha including travel options and when to book your tour, how to pack, and how to organize your safari.

Why Start Your Ngorongoro Tour from Arusha?

Arusha is Tanzania’s safari tourism hub and entry to the northern circuit like Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara. It is ideally placed about 180 kilometers from the Ngorongoro Crater and therefore is the most suitable point of departure. The distance is four hours, and on the way, one would get to view vegetation, Maasai village homesteads, and the Great Rift Valley.

Besides its accessibility, Arusha also offers a good mix of accommodation facilities, safari outfits, and gear stores where you can arrange your plans for your safari. There is plenty to choose from here, whether a budget safari or an upscale safari.

Types of Ngorongoro Tours from Arusha

There are several types of Ngorongoro Tours From Arusha depending on the duration, budget, and experience you’re looking for. Here are the main options:

1-Day Ngorongoro Crater Tour from Arusha

1-day Ngorongoro Crater tour is ideal for travelers with a limited time period who still want to visit one of Tanzania’s most striking wildlife wonders. The tour starts early morning from Arusha by a morning drive along the Great Rift Valley and forest-covered highlands to reach Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

When you arrive, you will drive 600 meters into the crater for a thrilling game drive. The crater has a high density of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), as well as zebras, wildebeests, and hippos. Picnic lunch is usually served at a scenic spot like the Hippo Pool, where there is an opportunity to relax amidst beautiful scenery.

Afternoon, you will ascend again to the rim of the crater and back to Arusha, in the evening.

Read Also:- Ngorongoro Crater Day Trip

3-Day Ngorongoro & Tarangire or Lake Manyara Safari

For a three-day safari, we have an option of Ngorongoro Crater with either Tarangire National Park or Lake Manyara National Park to provide a diverse range of wildlife experience. Day one will take you out of Arusha and on the road to either Tarangire or Lake Manyara for a game drive.

Tarangire is famous for its elephant migrations and baobab trees so old they are almost prehistoric. Lake Manyara has tree-climbing lions and tropical birds. Overnight at a campsite or lodge near Ngorongoro following a day of sightseeing.

Day two is spent driving into the Ngorongoro Crater for an all-day game drive, relishing the spectacular concentration of game. Day three can include an early morning trip or cultural visit before heading back to Arusha.

See Also:- Top Tarangire Safari Tours

5-Day Ngorongoro, Serengeti & Tarangire Safari

A 5-day excursion to see in greater depth Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro is possible. Starting with a game drive at Tarangire, you then proceed to the Serengeti for two days of exploration, witnessing the diverse landscapes and dense wildlife.

The fourth day has you moving to Ngorongoro for a day excursion of the crater, ending the day with an evening of relaxation at a campsite or lodge. The final day can be a cultural tour or morning game drive before returning to Arusha.

This safari is ideal for the traveler who wants to experience the best Tanzania has to offer on its northern circuit in one trip.

Read Also:- Serengeti tours from Arusha

Luxury Fly-in Ngorongoro Safari

For those who appreciate comfort and convenience, a luxury fly-in safari allows you to skip the many-hour drive from Arusha and take a direct flight to an airstrip close by. This package includes top-of-the-line accommodations, private game drives, and VIP touches such as guided nature walks and bush meals. Tourists can visit the crater at their own pace and enjoy a more personalized safari with expert guides. The tour is ideal for honeymooners, families, or anyone who desires a luxury safari experience.

Ngorongoro Walking & Cultural Tour

For tourists looking for something new from game drives, a walking safari and cultural tour provide an opportunity to walk the highlands of Ngorongoro. This trip includes guided nature walks on the crater rim, trips to Maasai villages, and meetings with native people to learn their customs and way of life.

A walking safari in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers breathtaking scenery, close encounters with small animals, and a heightened sense of connection with nature. This is perfect for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts wanting an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro from Arusha

Ngorongoro is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. The dry season from June to October offers excellent wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and the weather is cool and pleasant. This is also the busiest time, so expect more tourists in the crater.

The wet season from November to May is the best for travelers seeking fewer crowds and lush greens. It is perfect birding time for anyone who loves birds because migratory birds visit the region. Calving during January to March months is unique in that most of the animals deliver their young ones, and it brings predators who in turn give tremendous wildlife experience.

Wildlife to Expect in Ngorongoro

Ngorongoro Crater is home to the highest concentration of animals in Africa. The Big Five—buffalos, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos—are all within eyesight of each other. Herds of wildebeest and zebras graze freely in the open, and hippos put in appearances in swamps and lakes around the crater. There are hyenas and cheetahs as well, and even, if fortune smiles on you, the elusive black rhino, one of Africa’s most endangered animals.

Bird lovers will be flabbergasted at the large number of birds in the area, like the flamingos are found in massive flocks along Lake Magadi in the crater. The diversified habitats of the crater, from grasslands and forests to wetlands, create a conducive home for incredible counts of wildlife.

How to get from Arusha to Ngorongoro

Getting to Ngorongoro Crater from Arusha is easy and can be done in several ways depending on budget, time, and preference. The most common option is by road, with a drive of approximately 3.5 to 4 hours covering around 190 km (118 miles) via the Arusha-Dodoma Road.

By Road (Most Popular Route) – The drive from Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater will take approximately 3.5 to 4 hours over some 190 km (118 miles) on the Arusha-Dodoma Road. Passengers usually utilize 4×4 safari vehicles required to travel the rough terrain within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Along the way, you will be driving through stunning scenery, including the Great Rift Valley and Lake Manyara.

By Air (More Luxury & Faster) – An internal flight from Arusha Airport to Manyara Airstrip takes approximately 30-45 minutes. From there, it’s a 1.5-hour car ride to the crater. This is most appropriate for tourists who want to save time and enjoy more luxurious travel.

By Guided Safari – The best way is to take a guided safari tour, where everything is arranged, for instance, transportation, park fees, and an experienced guide. This assures a hassle-free and enjoyable experience while exploring the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater.

What to Pack for Your Ngorongoro Tour

It might make a huge difference during your safari to have proper gear in your bag. Carry comfortable, dull color attire and an early morning game drive jacket since the crater will most likely be cold. Proper hiking footwear or closed shoes will also be required if you go any walking safaris or leaving the vehicle.

Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are a must for sun protection, and bug spray will repel mosquitoes from you. Binoculars and a camera are a must for seeing the wonderful wildlife and scenery, and a refillable bottle will ensure you stay hydrated with water while on the move. If you go when it is rainy season, bring a raincoat and a small umbrella.

Booking Your Ngorongoro Tour

Booking a safari with a credible tour organization guarantees a smooth and comfortable experience. Nihapa Tours provides tailored Ngorongoro safari packages to suit your requirements and budget. Whether it’s an afternoon day trip, a multi-day trip, or a combination safari that visits other parks, Nihapa Tours will take care of everything for you.

With experienced guides, safari-van-riding seasoned guides, and a commitment to making the best experience possible, Nihapa Tours guarantees your Ngorongoro experience is trouble-free and fun as well.

For booking or additional information, you can call Nihapa Tours at +255 786 261 927.

Conclusion

Ngorongoro Crater is Tanzania’s finest safari location, with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and a memory-rich safari experience. Starting your tour in Arusha makes it easy, convenient, and loaded with a variety of tour packages to suit all types of tourists.

As a visitor to our overnight safari, day tour, or extended tour of Tanzania’s northern circuit, Ngorongoro will leave you speechless due to its beauty and diversity. Join your safari today and experience the adventure of a lifetime!