Ngorongoro Crater · Safari Lodge
Ngorongoro Explorer by Elewana
About
A new design-led lodge on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, opening May 2027 as a sister property to Serengeti Explorer. Daily Crater descents are the centrepiece; an Olduvai Gorge anthropological visit fills a full day for guests staying longer.
Amenities
- Crater Rim
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Wi-Fi
- Walking Safari
- Olduvai Visits
Location & access
Ngorongoro Crater
What's included
Included
- Accommodation
- All Meals
- Soft Drinks
- House Beverages On The Property
- Laundry
- Scheduled And Shared Full-day Crater Game Drive (Game Package)
- Two Hour Walking Safari With Professional Guide (Game Package)
- Lake Manyara Airstrip Transfer (Game Package)
- Crater Vehicle Service Fee For One Crater Day Per Booking (Game Package)
Not included
- Premium Drinks
- Olduvai Gorge Entrance Fees
- Olduvai Gorge Guide Fee
- NCAA Entrance Fees
- NCAA Concession Fees
- Additional Crater Days Beyond The First
- Vehicle Entry Fees
- Flying Doctors Evacuation Cover
- Flights And Airport Taxes
- Gratuities
- Five Course Tasting Dinner
Frequently asked
Where is Ngorongoro Explorer located?
It sits in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area close to the crater rim, which puts you within a short drive of the descent road to the crater floor for an early start on game viewing.
What makes the Ngorongoro Crater special?
The crater is a collapsed volcanic caldera with one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including the Big Five. It is the most reliable place in Tanzania to see black rhino in the open.
How do guests reach the camp?
Most guests arrive by road from Arusha in about 4 hours, often combined with Tarangire or Lake Manyara on the way. A bush flight to Lake Manyara airstrip followed by a drive up to the rim is also possible.
How many nights should I spend at the Ngorongoro Crater?
One to two nights is usual. One night covers a full crater morning. A second night lets you add Olduvai Gorge, a highland crater walk, or a slower descent without rushing.
Is the Ngorongoro Crater suitable for families?
Yes. The crater floor has short drives and dense, easy game viewing that suits children, and the cool highland air at the rim is comfortable. Confirm the minimum age for any walking activities with your expert.
When is the best time to visit the Ngorongoro Crater?
The crater holds wildlife year round. June to October is dry with easy access. The green season from November to May brings fewer vehicles and lush scenery, and the crater floor stays accessible throughout.
What's nearby
- Ngorongoro Crater floorA morning descent to the caldera floor for the densest Big Five game viewing in Tanzania, including the black rhino the crater is known for.
- Olduvai Gorge · About 1.5 hoursThe archaeological site on the road toward the Serengeti where early human fossils were found, with a small museum on the human story.
- Empakaai and Olmoti craters · Highland rimQuieter highland craters on the conservation area rim, reached on foot with a ranger for crater lake birdlife and forest walks.
- Karatu coffee highlands · About 45 minutesCoffee estates and highland farmland down the rim, the gateway town and an easy half day away from the crater.
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