Day Trip Itinerary From Arusha To Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Crater, a spectacular destination, is home to approximately 25,000 large animals, creating a thriving ecosystem. Spot iconic wildlife such as wildebeest, zebra, gazelles, elephants, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, hippos, and a plethora of bird species. The fertile soil of the crater sustains lush grasslands, contributing to the diverse and vibrant life within. As you explore, take in the flat floor expanse adorned with open grasslands and interspersed with patches of acacia woodland. The terrain gracefully transitions from swampy areas to open savannahs and pockets of small forests, offering a dynamic and ever-changing landscape.
6:00AM- 9; 00AM DEPART FROM ARUSHA TO NGORONGORO
Daystar early to maximize your time in Ngorongoro crater, because the journey takes more than two hours, the driver will drive you into scenic countryside, passing lush farmland and local villages. The route takes you through the Rift Valley and offers a stunning view of the surrounding hills and farmland, you will also pass through the town of Karatu which is the gateway to the Ngorongoro crater area.
9; 00 AM – 9; 30AM ARRIVAL AT NGORONGORO CRATER RIM AND ENTRY
You will enter the park after paying the necessary entrance fees, your guide will provide you with a brief orientation about the conservation area and the unique ecology of Ngorongoro, and also an opportunity to take photos from the crater rim before descending.
9; 30AM – 1; 00PM GAME DRIVE
The crater floor is about 600 meters below the rim, and the ecosystem inside is home to diverse wildlife including elephants, buffalos, gazelles, and more, The crater also is often referred to as the “Garden of Eden” due to its rich animal life and lush grasslands. Expect to see large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and possibly some predators like lions, leopards, or cheetahs there are also occasionasightingsng of the endangered black rhino.
1; 00PM – 1; 30PM PICNIC LUNCH
You’ll likely have a scenic lunch with wildlife in the vicinity, so be sure to stay in the vehicle during lunch, alternatively, you can enjoy a more relaxing lunch at the Ngorongoro crater rim or a designated area with views over the crater.
1; 30PM – 3:00 PM CONTINUE GAME DRIVE AND EXPLORE THE CRATER
After lunch you will continue your safari in the crater, this may include exploring different areas of the crater like the Lemala area which is a known watering hole for elephants, or the Gorigor swamp where hippos reside. Also, you will visit Lake Magadi, a soda lake inside the crater where you may see flamingos, especially during the wet season. The crater also is home to many bird species, so bird-watching enthusiasts may enjoy spotting various migratory and resident birds including ostriches, eagles, and vultures.
3: OOPM – 4; 30PM ASCEND FROM THE CRATER & DEPART FOR ARUSHA
After exiting and memorable safari you’ll start the drive back to the Ngorongoro crater rim and ascend the steep road leading out the crater, approximately 45 minutes to1 hourr for the drive out of the crater. Enjoy the stunning views of the crater as you ascend and keep an eye out for morwildlifefe along the crater
4; 30PM –6:00 PM RETURN DRIVE TO ARUSHA
After your time in Crater the return journey will begin to Arusha, the drive will take more than three hours depending on the road conditions. Arrival in Arusha at 6;00 pm by earl evening where the driver will drop you at your hotel.
