Full Day Private Ngorongoro Crater Safari starting in Arusha
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This Ngorongoro Crater tour stands out for its ability to deliver an unforgettable safari experience in a single day. Few places offer such a concentrated abundance of wildlife within one compact, stunning landscape, making it one of the only places in Africa where you can see the "Big Five" in a short time. The Crater’s unique, enclosed ecosystem provides near-guaranteed wildlife sightings year-round, and its diverse scenery—from acacia forests and grassy plains to a lake often dotted with flamingos—creates a breathtaking backdrop for every moment of the journey.
With a personal guide and a 4x4 safari vehicle featuring a pop-up roof, you’ll have access to prime vantage points for photography and viewing. The tour’s organization, including convenient Arusha pickup and return, picnic lunch by the hippo pool, and WiFi for instant photo sharing, makes this day both immersive and seamless.
Available options
Full Day Private Ngorongoro Crater Safari starting in Arusha
Pickup included
What's included
Entry fees to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, ensuring access to the Crater and its wildlife.
Private transportation
Soda/Pop
Alcoholic Beverages
Lunch
Round-trip transport to and from Arusha, ensuring a stress-free experience
Professional safari guide with in-depth knowledge of the Crater’s wildlife, ecosystems, and history.
Picnic lunch at the hippo pool, offering a delicious meal in a scenic setting surrounded by nature.
Guide: In-person: English, Spanish, French, German, Italian
Fridge
Free pickup and drop-off from your location in Arusha.
Free WiFi during the safari for sharing photos and staying connected.
Coffee and/or Tea
Professional Safari Guide
WiFi on board
Binoculars
Snacks
Transport in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle equipped with a pop-up roof and WiFi.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The 1-Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari starts with an early morning pickup from your Arusha location, taking you on a scenic drive in a safari-ready 4x4 vehicle to the stunning Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Known as "Africa’s Eden," the Crater offers one of Tanzania’s most unique landscapes and is home to the "Big Five"—lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo—along with zebras, hippos, and wildebeests. After descending into the Crater, enjoy a morning game drive, followed by a picnic lunch at the hippo pool, where you can relax while observing wildlife up close. An afternoon game drive offers additional chances to see iconic species, including lion prides, leopards, and flamingos on the lake. Conclude the day with a scenic return to Arusha. This tour includes park entry, guide services, lunch, drinks, and round-trip transport, providing an unforgettable one-day safari adventure.
Bathrooms Are available inside the crater
Free WiFi in the car
Drinking water and sodas
Hot Meals
What's not included
Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Accommodation (the tour is a day trip, and overnight stays are not included).
Optional activities outside the scheduled game drives, such as additional excursions
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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2
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We only serve alcoholic drinks for travelers 18 years old and above. Minor travelers below 18 years old will be served non-alcoholic drinks.
Meeting point
We will meet with you on Arusha town just tell us your location
About Arusha
Arusha is a vibrant city nestled at the foot of Mount Meru in northern Tanzania. Known as the gateway to some of Africa's most famous national parks, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, it offers a blend of urban amenities and natural wonders. The city is also a cultural melting pot, with a mix of African, Arab, and European influences.
Top Attractions
Mount Meru
Mount Meru is an active volcano and the second-highest peak in Tanzania. It offers challenging treks and stunning views.
Nature
2-3 days for trekking
Moderate
Arusha National Park
This compact park offers a variety of landscapes, including mountains, forests, and lakes. It's a great place for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Serengeti National Park
One of the most famous national parks in the world, the Serengeti is known for its annual wildebeest migration and abundant wildlife.
Nature
Full day to multi-day safari
Expensive
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater filled with wildlife.
Nature
Full day to multi-day safari
Expensive
Tarangire National Park
Known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire offers a unique safari experience.
Nature
Full day
Moderate
Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre
This center showcases the rich cultural heritage of Tanzania, with a focus on the Maasai and other local tribes.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Low
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ugali
A thick porridge made from cornmeal, often served with stews or sauces.
Staple food
Vegetarian
Nyama Choma
Grilled meat, often served with kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad).
Main dish
Contains meat
Pilau
A spiced rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables.
Main dish
Contains meat
Mandazi
Sweet fried dough, often served with tea.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Trekking Mount Meru
Safari in Serengeti National Park
Hot air balloon safari in Serengeti
Visit Lake Momella
Coffee tasting at local cafes
Spa treatments at luxury hotels
Visit Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre
Cultural tour of Mto wa Mbu
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season, offering the best wildlife viewing conditions. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swahili, English
- Widely spoken: Swahili, English, Maasai
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken elsewhere
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with exercise of caution
Arusha is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution, especially at night and in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Avoid displaying valuables in public
Getting there
By air
- Arusha Airport • 4 km from city center
- Kilimanjaro International Airport • 45 km from Arusha
By bus
Arusha Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Daladala are minibuses that are the primary mode of public transport in Arusha. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Arusha
Themi
Ngurdoto
Day trips
Lake Manyara National Park
126 km from Arusha • Full day
Known for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, including tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos.
Mount Kilimanjaro
70 km from Arusha • Multi-day trek
The highest peak in Africa, offering challenging treks and breathtaking views.
Mto wa Mbu
30 km from Arusha • Half day
A vibrant village known for its cultural diversity and traditional markets.
Festivals
Arusha International Film Festival • July
Maasai Cultural Festival • Varies, typically during the dry season
Arusha Festival of Lights • December
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Hire a reputable guide for trekking and safaris
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your cultural experience
- Carry small denominations for markets and tipping
- Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
