Ngorongoro Crater Lodges and Camps in Tanzania Travel Guide

As a major highl‌ight on many East African trav‌el plans, the Ngoron‌goro Crate‌r is very popul‌ar. When selec‌ting Ngoro‌ngoro Crat‌er lodging‌, careful consi‌derat‌ion should be given not only to the availa‌bilit‌y of accom‌modat‌ions but also to their proximi‌ty to the crate‌r and your budg‌et

The lodges in Ngorongoro Crater are unique and luxurious. The views from the lodges are perhaps the most spectacular in the world, and the service is world-class, making them perfect for a Ngorongoro honeymoon. You will also be the first to descend into the crater for your morning safari.

However, while it takes visitors staying in the town of Karatu, near the crater, about an hour to reach the crater, the accommodation here is more affordable, smaller, and more private. In addition, many lodges and guest houses offer additional activities such as local walking tours and horse riding.

Here are the 10 best Ngorongoro safari lodges and camps, ranked closest to the crater.

Ngorongoro lodges and camps are plentiful, and it mostly fall into one of two broad geographic categories

List of best Ngorongoro crater lodges and camps for unforgettable wildlife experience

Pakulala safari camp

Pakulala Safari Camp is one of the only tented camps in the world located above the Ngorongoro crater. A unique camp offering a unique experience and stunning views of the crater. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is considered the eighth wonder of the world. The crater is home to the largest wildlife population in Africa. The chance to see Africa's Big Five animals is as real as the air you breathe, offering you the most comprehensive and extensive safari experience.

The public areas of Pakurara Safari Camp are known for the stunning beauty of the surrounding scenery. The campfire overlooking the crater is undoubtedly a turning point for travelers. An unforgettable place to have a drink under the stars in Tanzania. Comfort and luxury are provided for you. The tents are designed with two comfortable beds, private bathroom with bucket shower and ecological toilet.

Pakulala Safari Camp is one of the best tented camps in the Ngorongoro crater

Sanctuary Ngorongoro crater camp

For those who don't want to hide behind a brick house at the end of a day's game drive, the Ngorongoro luxury safari camp is ideal, with a charming setting in an umbrella thorn forest on the eastern edge of the crater. It can be cold here, but the spacious tents have roaring fires and gas heaters and electric blankets to alleviate the chill. The camp is a few kilometers inside the Lemara Gate to the east, which is perfect for early morning game drives.

Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp is an authentic tented camp in the rim valley close to the crater floor for superb game viewing

Ngorongoro Serena safari lodge

Designed to blend in with the natural environment of Ngorongoro without disturbing the wildlife, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is one of the top Ngorongoro lodges and camps for an unforgettable vacation

The Ngorongoro luxury lodge offers 75 spacious and luxurious rooms, each decorated in a contemporary African design, including comfortable ensuite bathrooms and private balconies to enjoy the views of the crater rim after a long game drive.

The lodge has two restaurants serving international and local cuisine, and also offers guided nature walks with stunning views of the crater rim.

The lodge in Ngorongoro Crater does not have a swimming pool and offers an experience that is more like a hotel experience than a safari-style stay, making it a great choice for families or couples on a luxury honeymoon in Tanzania.

Ngorongoro Serena Hotel offers spacious, centrally heated rooms in an unforgettable setting in a forested valley overlooking the crater

Lemala Ngorongoro

The charming Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp is set in the dappled shade of an ancient acacia forest, right on the edge of the majestic Ngorongoro Crater and one of the best Ngorongoro lodges and camps for weekend trips. The Crater forest tented camp is conveniently located near the quiet Lemala crater access route, providing guests with easy and quick access to the Crater. Spacious tents feature comfortable beds, gas heaters for cooler evenings, 24-hour solar lighting, and lovely en-suite bathrooms with dressing areas and al fresco showers.

Guests can gather around a crackling campfire to enjoy their favorite sundowners and share stories of the day's adventures before proceeding to a lavish, chandelier-lit dinner hosted by the camp manager. Luxurious couches and overflowing bookcases encourage guests to relax and unwind between game viewing activities. Lemala Ngorongoro offers game drives within the Ngorongoro Crater, as well as bush walks in the nearby Ol Moti and Empakaai Craters led by Maasai guides.

Lemala Ngorongoro is one of the best safari tent camps in Ngorongoro

The Highlands

Asilia Africa's award-winning boutique camp, The Highlands, is an architectural marvel set on the edge of the Olmoti Crater forest, offering exceptional services and a rich, unique Ngorongoro experience. For a unique experience, the Highlands at Ngorongoro Crater is an excellent choice and one of the famous Ngorongoro lodges and camps for safari trip

Despite its private location, Ngorongoro Crater Tented Camp is just an hour from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ngorongoro Crater, where you can see lions, elephants, rhinos and more on unique safari sites. In addition to safaris at the bottom of the crater, there are many exciting free adventures, such as hikes to the top of Olmoti Mountain for stunning views, walks to Empakaai Crater's soda lake to see thousands of pink flamingos and immersive cultural interactions with the local Maasai community.

The Highlands offers eight unique dome suites. Made of canvas and plexiglass, these romantic perches are surrounded by lush forest vegetation and offer stunning views of the rolling hills and volcanic mountains in the distance. Interconnecting family suites are suitable for adults with children, while honeymoon suites have outdoor hot tubs. All rooms have private bathrooms with hot water and showers.

The Highlands is one of the best tented camps in the Ngorongoro crater

Nomad Tanzania - Entamanu, Ngorongoro

Nestled on the wild side of the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, Entamanu Ngorongoro

is a carefully designed sanctuary in this natural place from which to explore its unique highland environment. Surrounded by the towering peaks of dormant volcanoes and the ups and downs of Maasai pastoralist life, it is a place away from the hustle and bustle of the crater's main tourist routes. The best lodge in Ngorongoro can not only be visited, but also understood as part of a wider environment.

Seven large ensuite tents, two of which are family rooms, are equipped with heaters, warm textiles and sheepskins and overlook the iconic crater landscape with a backdrop of ancient acacia trees. The style here is as unique as the location - everything is carefully handcrafted locally to the highest standards.

There is nothing gentle about this Ngorongoro crater safari lodge - the high-altitude sun is really hot and the wind can be biting and sometimes noisy. Nomad Tanzania took on the challenge and created a camp that takes full advantage of the extraordinary views while providing warmth and shelter from the elements and is fully demountable. Every design detail has been considered, while still providing the comfort of this natural place. These factors contribute to the highlands' ranking among the top 10 Ngorongoro Crater safari lodges and camps.

Elewana the Manor at Ngorongoro

The Elewana The Manor is part of the top 10 Ngorongoro lodges and camps for a Tanzania family holiday.

This Ngorongoro luxury lodge, set within the Shangri-La Estate and surrounded by lush gardens, the Manor at Ngorongoro Crater is reminiscent of a country farm and features quaint Cape Dutch-style architecture. Ten luxurious, family-friendly lodges combine East African hospitality with European colonial architecture and décor reminiscent of a more grandiose era. The cottages are cozy and private, with en suite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and private decks to make the most of the stunning views.

Enjoy sumptuous meals in the formal dining room, alfresco dining room or in the private lodge. A selection of wines from the estate’s cellar complement the African-inspired cuisine. Guests can relax in the sauna and steam room, try their luck in the billiards room or read one of the many books in the library while relaxing in front of the cosy fireplace, which is a great place for the whole family to play board games. Family-friendly adventures include a tour of Lake Manyara and Olduvai Gorge, a Maasai market tour, guided walks around the estate and a leisurely bike ride along the Ngorongoro Crater.

The Manor at Ngorongoro, located in north west Tanzania with its 9 luxurious cottages, family cottage, and magnificent main Manor House

Gibb’s Farm

Nestled on the forested slopes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Gibbs Farm, one of the best lodges in Ngorongoro, is a warm and friendly place to experience farm life at its best. This famous Ngorongoro crater accommodation to rest up after an African safari, Gibbs Farm has retained its historic charm and offers a welcoming retreat on the farm.

Visit the coffee plantation, dairy and piggery, and perhaps enjoy an interactive experience where you can help milk the cows, feed the pigs or join the farm's coffee roaster to experience traditional coffee roasting methods. Wander through the ancient farm, flower and vegetable gardens, or head further afield for a guided forest walk to discover seasonal waterfalls and mysterious elephant caves. You can even enjoy a guided walk to the rim of the famous Ngorongoro Crater. Visit various community projects and initiatives to learn more about rural life in Tanzania.

The Plantation Lodge Ngorongoro

Plantation Lodge is a great base for exploring Lake Manyara National Park and the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, while you can also take a road trip through northern Tanzania with a private guide. The accommodation is very comfortable without being overly luxurious, and the food and service are excellent.

The best lodge in Ngorongoro Crater has character and is very pleasant to relax in after a busy day of game viewing. The management and staff are friendly and efficient. Plantation Lodge is an all-round 4-star hotel and good value for money.

Dining at Ngorongoro Plantation Lodge is excellent as the ingredients are fresh and locally sourced. You can also take a guided tour through the coffee plantation and gardens, or relax in the outdoor pool and spa after a long game drive.

Once a coffee farm in Ngorongoro Crater highlands, the lodge grows within a forest of green gardens abundant in biodiversity and birdlife

Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge

Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, the best Ngorongoro lodges and camps is one of the largest lodges in the surrounding area and has 97 spacious rooms, each with a balcony, stunning views, and en suite bathrooms. The rooms are designed to reference traditional African mud houses, with conical roofs and stone walls.

You can experience half-board and full-board accommodation at this lodge, and its Lemala Hill restaurant offers a buffet and other cuisine. The restaurant has glass walls, so you can enjoy the view while dining and relax after a day of hunting.

Travelers always like this best lodge in Ngorongoro because it is located on the edge, allowing you to start hunting immediately and come back early to relax in the pool.

What to know before traveling to the best Ngorongoro crater safari lodges and camps

Traveling to the best safari lodges in the Ngorongoro Crater is an exciting adventure, but there are several key things to know before you go to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The Ngorongoro Crater, located in Tanzania, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Here’s what you should understand about visiting its best Ngorongoro lodges and camps and the surrounding area:

Best time to visit Ngorongoro crater

While the roads around the crater can be fairly muddy, the best time to visit Tanzania's Ngorongoro Crater is during the rainy season from April to May. There are far fewer tourists this time of year, and the crater is lush and green compared to the dusty dry season landscape. Visitor numbers are high during the peak season from July to September, and during the calving season from December to February, following the November rainy season.

Since Ngorongoro's wildlife stays in the steep crater year-round, the question of when to go on a safari in Ngorongoro Crater is less about optimizing your game viewing experience and more about how many people and vehicles you want to share the crater with.

Choose the best time to visit the Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Choosing the right lodge

• Rim Lodges: Staying on the crater rim, such as Ngorongoro Crater Lodge and Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, provides exceptional views and early access to game drives (gates open at 6 AM). These accommodations are often luxurious, featuring amenities like fireplaces, private balconies, and gourmet dining, but their premium price should be considered.
• Karatu or Highlands Lodges: More budget-friendly options, like Plantation Lodge and The Highlands in the Ngorongoro Highlands, offer extra activities such as coffee tours and hiking. However, due to their distance from the crater, travel time must be factored into your itinerary.
• Camping Options: For a more immersive safari experience, tented camps like Entamanu Ngorongoro or Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp provide comfort with private bathrooms while maintaining a close connection to nature. These camps are frequently situated on the rim or in secluded areas.
• Booking Tip: Top lodges often book up months in advance, especially during the dry season. Reserve accommodations early, particularly if you have a specific lodge preference.

What to pack for the Ngorongoro crater safari

• Clothing: Pack lightweight, neutral-toned clothing for daytime activities to aid in camouflage, along with a warm jacket, hat, and gloves for the cooler mornings and evenings. Waterproof garments are recommended during the wet season.
• Essentials: Sunscreen, sunglasses, binoculars, a camera with a powerful zoom lens, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle are crucial items.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or boots are necessary for game drives or guided walks (where permitted outside the crater).

Packing List for Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Wildlife and activities

• Wildlife: Expect to see lions, elephants, black rhinos, hippos, wildebeests, zebras, and flamingos, among other animals. The crater's enclosed ecosystem ensures reliable sightings throughout the year.
• Beyond Game Drives: Rim lodges frequently offer guided nature walks, cultural interactions with Maasai villages, or bush dining experiences. Lodges in the Karatu area may also include activities such as biking, horseback riding, or excursions to Lake Manyara National Park.
• Restrictions: For conservation purposes, walking within the crater or staying overnight is strictly forbidden.

Health and safety

• Vaccinations: A yellow fever certificate is required for travelers arriving from any area where yellow fever is endemic. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised, given the region's status as a malaria risk zone. Consult your physician well in advance of your trip.
• Food and Water: High-end lodges maintain consistently high standards of hygiene, but travelers should still use bottled water and refrain from eating raw foods at budget-priced accommodations to minimize potential health risks.
• Altitude: The elevated terrain of the rim area may cause mild discomfort, such as shortness of breath, in some individuals. Gradually acclimate to the altitude if you have a sensitivity to changes in elevation

Cultural considerations

• Maasai Communities: The Northern Corridor Area (NCA) is home to the Maasai people, who live alongside wildlife. When visiting, respect their customs and traditions; ask permission before taking photographs and consider purchasing crafts to support their livelihoods.
• Sustainability: Choose accommodations that prioritize environmentally friendly practices, such as using solar power and employing local staff, to promote conservation efforts.

Travel documents to Ngorongoro crater

Before visiting Ngorongoro Crater, make sure you prepare these essential travel documents for a smooth and hassle-free trip:

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months after departure and have at least 2 blank pages.
• Visa: Most travelers can apply online for a Tanzania eVisa, including multiple-entry options for eligible nationalities.
• Yellow fever certificate: Required if arriving from or transiting through a high-risk country for more than 12 hours.
• Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prevention are strongly advised.
• Travel insurance: Not mandatory, but recommended for medical evacuation, cancellations, delays, and lost luggage coverage.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the magic of the Ngorongoro Crater is best experienced with a stay at one of its remarkable accommodations. The selection of Ngorongoro Crater Lodges and Camps not only offers comfort and convenience but also enhances the overall safari adventure. Deciding on which of the Ngorongoro Lodges best fits your desires will make for an unforgettable African memory - check out more of the best safari lodges in Tanzania