Ngorongoro

Travel Guide

A lion walking near a water body with its reflection visible.
A lioness standing in a grassy field.
Two elephants in a grassy field with a clear sky.
A buffalo with large curved horns and several birds perched on its back.
Zebras grazing in a grassy field with mountains in the background.

Ngorongoro showcases the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, unique lakes, and rich wildlife across its expansive conservation areas.

Ngorongoro is an ideal destination for outdoor, adventure travelers. You can explore the Ngorongoro Crater, a significant geological feature, and visit the expansive Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Additionally, the area is home to diverse lakes, such as Ndutu Lake and Lake Magadi, where you can appreciate the natural scenery. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Loliondo Game Controlled Area offers opportunities to observe various species in their natural habitats.

Take time to wander the nearby areas, each with its own character. Ololosokwan and Sinoni are known for outdoor adventure experiences, with Sinoni featuring Lake Masek as a notable spot. Another nearby area, Engare Sero, is recognized for its stunning scenery, providing a perfect backdrop for exploration. These locations offer unique experiences that complement your time in Ngorongoro.

The best time to visit Ngorongoro is influenced more by rainfall than by temperature, as the weather remains mild and fairly constant throughout the year. Expect heavier rains in April, which may affect travel plans. During drier periods, you can enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife without the challenges of wet conditions, making your visit more enjoyable.

Ngorongoro Lodge member of Meliá Collection - The Leading Hotels of the World

Ngorongoro Lodge member of Meliá Collection - The Leading Hotels of the World

5 out of 5
Ngorongoro Crater Ngorongoro Arusha Region
$1,097 nightly
The price is $1,296 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$1,296 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury lodge in Ngorongoro. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Gorigor Swamp and Lerai Forest are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
"An amazing lodge with the breathtaking views of the crater. Great rooms, practical location, and a swimming pool thats gonna make you speechless We can’t wait to get back to this unforgettable lodge"

Reviewed on Mar 17, 2026

Ngorongoro Lodge member of Meliá Collection - The Leading Hotels of the World
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

4 out of 5
Crater Rim Ngorongoro
Fully refundable
$608 nightly
The price is $724 total per night from Dec 8 to Dec 9
$724 total
Dec 8 - Dec 9
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa lodge in Ngorongoro. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Lerai Forest and Lake Magadi are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (26 reviews)
"Excellent location! The staff makes you feel valued and welcome!"

Reviewed on Oct 1, 2026

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Africa Safari Ngorongoro Ndutu

Africa Safari Ngorongoro Ndutu

3 out of 5
Ndutu Lake Ngorongoro Arusha
$187 nightly
The price is $229 total per night from Dec 15 to Dec 16
$229 total
Dec 15 - Dec 16
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this tentalow in Ngorongoro. Enjoy free parking, daily housekeeping, and a garden. Popular attractions Ndutu Lake and Lake Masek are located nearby.
7.6/10 Good! (5 reviews)
"Overall value is good. Prestigious location to observe wildebeests calving. Just wish the shower water could be hotter. When it rains, the solar energy only provides lukewarm water. Maybe just our tent."

Reviewed on Mar 3, 2026

Africa Safari Ngorongoro Ndutu
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Unique Homestay B - 2 Bedroom with swimming and Free Wi-fi

Unique Homestay B - 2 Bedroom with swimming and Free Wi-fi

Arusha Arusha Region
Stay at this apartment in Karatu. Popular attraction Karatu Playground is located nearby.
Unique Homestay B - 2 Bedroom with swimming and Free Wi-fi
Jambo Rooms-the B&B In Karatu

Jambo Rooms-the B&B In Karatu

3 out of 5
Karatu Arusha
Book a stay at this business-friendly vacation home in Karatu. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attraction Karatu Playground is located ...
4/10 (1 review)
"It was very difficult to find a location for this accommodation before arriving. The only internet location we had been able to find, was incorrect. We had to phone the number provided then pay someone to lead us there. The sitting area was nice and there was plenty of ventilation. In a mosquito ..."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2018

Jambo Rooms-the B&B In Karatu
Tindiga Tented Camp

Tindiga Tented Camp

3 out of 5
00000 Mangola Arusha Region
Stay at this cabin in Mangola. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk.
Tindiga Tented Camp
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Ngorongoro attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Ngorongoro worth visiting?
Ngorongoro is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Ngorongoro Crater. Travelers can explore these significant natural areas, which are renowned for their unique landscapes and the diverse ecosystems they protect.
What is Ngorongoro known for?
Ngorongoro is known for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which encompasses the iconic Ngorongoro Crater. This area in Tanzania also features Ndutu Lake, offering travelers unique opportunities to experience diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty within its protected landscapes.
What is a good itinerary length for Ngorongoro?
A good itinerary length for Ngorongoro is two to three days to explore the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and its famous Ngorongoro Crater. For a more in-depth experience, including Ndutu Lake and multi-day safari adventures like the Multi-Days Camping Safari Adventure, consider five to seven days. Travelers can also opt for longer trips that include Kilimanjaro treks. See Ngorongoro Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Ngorongoro?
Ngorongoro offers incredible wildlife viewing and natural wonders, from vast conservation areas to stunning lakes:


How do I plan a trip to Ngorongoro?
To plan your trip to Ngorongoro, search for places to stay and book your flights in advance. Consider booking multi-day camping safari adventures or Kilimanjaro treks, which often visit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Ngorongoro Crater, and Ndutu Lake. Securing these experiences early is recommended to ensure availability.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Ngorongoro?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Ngorongoro by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Ngorongoro with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Ngorongoro trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Ngorongoro?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Ngorongoro can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Ngorongoro trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Ngorongoro trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Ngorongoro trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Ngorongoro trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Ngorongoro?
If it's your first trip to Ngorongoro, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Ngorongoro hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Ngorongoro hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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