1 Day Ngorongoro Crater
1 Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari tour takes you from Arusha to Ngorongoro Conservation Area and back in a single day. You’ll descend into the crater for a game drive, where wildlife viewing is among the best in Africa.
Safari cost from $550
Tour Summary
A 1 Day Ngorongoro Crater safari is one of the most rewarding short safari experiences in Tanzania. Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the Ngorongoro Crater offers an incredible concentration of wildlife within a breathtaking natural setting.
This full-day safari is perfect for travelers who want to experience the Big Five and diverse landscapes in just one day.
Safari Highlights
- Game drive inside the Ngorongoro Crater
- Chance to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, leopard)
- Stunning crater views and landscapes
- High concentration of wildlife in a small area
- Ideal for a short Tanzania safari
Top Features
- Can be Customized
- Suitable for all ages
- Best Lodge and Camps Guaranteed
- Can start any day
Day by Day Program for 1 Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Early Morning: Pick-Up & Transfer
You will be picked up early from your hotel in Arusha. After a short briefing, begin your journey to Ngorongoro Conservation Area (approximately 3–4 hours drive).
Morning: Descend into the Crater
Upon arrival, descend 600 meters into the crater floor for your game drive. The crater is home to a dense population of wildlife, making sightings frequent and exciting.
You may see:
Lions, Elephants, Black rhinos (rare and protected), Buffaloes, Zebras and wildebeests
Midday: Picnic Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated site inside the crater, often near a hippo pool, surrounded by wildlife and scenic views.
Afternoon: Continue Game Drive
After lunch, continue exploring the crater floor. This is a great time to spot more animals and take photos of the unique landscape.
Late Afternoon: Return to Arusha
In the afternoon, ascend from the crater and begin your journey back to Arusha, arriving in the early evening.
Wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places in Tanzania to see a wide variety of wildlife in a short time.
2 PEOPLE
$1100
3 PEOPLE
$1300
4 PEOPLE
$1480
5 PEOPLE
$1550
6 PEOPLE
$1800
What is included
Private 4×4 Safari Vehicle
Travel in a custom 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser designed for safari comfort, featuring a pop-up roof for panoramic wildlife viewing and excellent photography opportunities.
National Park Entry Fees Included
All required park entry fees are covered, allowing seamless access to Tanzania’s premier wildlife destinations.
Full-Board Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in carefully selected lodges or camps on a full-board basis, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner each day as specified on the itinerary.
Ngorongoro Crater Service Fee
All Ngorongoro Crater service fees are included, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free visit to this natural wonder.
Private Professional Safari Guide
Be accompanied by a knowledgeable, English-speaking private guide who will share expert insights into Tanzania’s wildlife, landscapes, and ecosystems also the following guides are available upon request, Spanish Speaking Guide, French Speaking Guide, German Speaking Guide, Chinese Speaking Guide, Italian Speaking Guide
All Meals During the Safari
Delicious, freshly prepared meals are provided throughout your safari, allowing you to fully focus on your adventure.
Bottled Drinking Water
Complimentary bottled mineral water is available in the vehicle to keep you refreshed during your game drives.
Airport Transfers
Round-trip transfers to and from the international airport are included for a comfortable and stress-free arrival and departure.
What is not included
Hotel Meals & Beverages
Lunch, dinner, and drinks at your hotel before and after the safari are not included unless otherwise specified.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend obtaining coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and personal belongings.
Flights
International and domestic flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport are not included in the package price unless is mentioned on itinerary.
Laundry Services
Laundry services are available at most hotels and lodges at an additional cost.
Personal Items & Toiletries
Guests are responsible for their personal belongings, toiletries, and any additional comfort items required during the trip.
Gratuities
Tips for your safari guide $10 Per person per night which is done at the end of the Safari.
While not mandatory, tipping is customary and greatly appreciated as a gesture of recognition for excellent service.
Why you should Book with Us?
- Your safety is our Number 1 Priority
- There is no Hidden Costs
- Quickest response time
- Drinks - Coffee, Water, Beer, Wine & Soft Drinks
- We take pride in having knowledgeable, experienced, and genuinely caring guides
- We select Great Accommodations
- We provide high-quality, well-maintained Land Cruisers fitted with a fridge, Wi-Fi, and power outlets
- Hot meals during the most of the safaris
- Local Registered Tour Operator in Tanzania
- Competitive Prices
Optional Activities
-
Hot-Air Balloon $500
Enjoy Early Morning Balloon flight at the Serengeti
-
Walking Safari $70
Get Closer to nature by doing a Walking safari at Tarangire National Park
-
Night Game-drive $250
Explore wildlife in the bush at night in Lake Manyara A whole new world of animal species (nocturnal) await you on a night game drive
-
Masai Visit $15
Visiting a Maasai village in Tanzania is a fantastic insight into life in Africa
-
Serval Wildife Sanctuary $250
This tour offers unforgettable interactions with these free-roaming animals.
-
Foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro $100
Be immersed in Tanzania's great outdoors on this full-day tour ideal for culture vultures and active travelers in the region
Receive a free, No obligation quote
Your Safari Questions Answered
Every unforgettable Tanzania safari begins with a question. Whether you’re planning a short safari in Tanzania or exploring our Northern Circuit safari packages, we’re here to help you travel with confidence and return home with incredible wildlife memories.
Is Tanzania Safe?
Yes. Safaris are conducted by professional guides in protected areas. Following your guide’s instructions ensures a safe experience.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Tanzania?
Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania.
Visa on Arrival → Available for many nationalities at airports and borders
E-Visa → Can be obtained online before travel (recommended for faster entry)
Cost → $50 for most nationalities, $100 for U.S. citizens
Apply now: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
Is this tour Adjustable?
Absolutely. All our safaris are fully customizable, and adding extra nights in Serengeti National Park is highly recommended if your schedule allows.
Why Add Extra Nights?
More time to track lions, leopards, and cheetahs
- Increased chances of witnessing the Great Migration (seasonal)
- A more relaxed pace with extended game drives
- Opportunity to explore different regions (Central, Western, or Northern Serengeti)
Let us know your travel dates and total number of days available, and we will design the perfect Serengeti extension tailored to you.
What should I pack for safari?
Think lightweight, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing. Include:
- Long-sleeved shirts & pants (for sun and insects)
- A warm jacket (early mornings can be chilly)
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- Binoculars and a camera
- Comfortable walking shoes
Luggage Restrictions for Domestic Flights
Most safari airlines in Tanzania operate small aircraft with limited luggage space, so passengers must follow strict baggage rules.
Typical luggage allowance:
- 15 kg (33 lbs) total luggage per person
- This includes carry-on and checked luggage combined
- Soft-sided duffel bags are required
Hard suitcases are usually not allowed because they do not fit easily in small aircraft compartments.
Recommended Luggage Type
The best luggage for safari flights is:
- Soft duffel bag
- Lightweight travel bag
- Flexible material
These bags are easier to load into bush planes and safari vehicles.
Click to see our Packing Lists
Are the accommodations on this tour flexible? Can I choose my own hotel ?
Absolutely. We welcome special accommodation requests and will provide curated alternatives from our extensive portfolio, which includes both our own properties and trusted partner lodges. By booking with us, you also gain access to exclusive discounted rates secured through our special partnerships.
Which Airport Should I Use for a Safari in Tanzania?
The best airport depends on your safari itinerary and where your adventure begins. Here are the main airports used for Tanzania safaris:
1. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Best for Northern Circuit Safaris
Recommended for:
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Tarangire National Park
- Lake Manyara National Park
Why choose JRO?
- Closest international airport to Arusha
- Main gateway for Northern Tanzania safaris
- Easy transfers to safari lodges and airstrips
Most travelers doing the classic Northern Circuit safari fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport.
2. Arusha Airport (ARK) – For Domestic Safari Flights
Used mainly for domestic flights to Serengeti airstrips
Ideal for fly-in safaris
Not a major international airport
3. Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Best for Southern & Coastal Safaris
Recommended for:
- Nyerere National Park
- Ruaha National Park
- Beach extensions in Zanzibar
DAR is located in Dar es Salaam and is ideal if your safari starts in Southern Tanzania.
4. Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – For Zanzibar Extensions
If you’re combining safari with a beach holiday, you may:
- Fly into Kilimanjaro
- Safari in Northern Tanzania
- Fly to Zanzibar
- Depart from Zanzibar
Quick Recommendation
Northern Circuit Safari? → Fly into Kilimanjaro (JRO)
Southern Safari? → Fly into Dar es Salaam (DAR)
Safari + Zanzibar? → JRO arrival & ZNZ departure (or vice versa)
If you share your plan, we’ll advise the best airport and flight route for your trip.
What Kind of a Vehicle is Used During the Safari?
We use 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers prepared for tough routes. These vehicles have pop-up roof hatches for 360-degree game viewing, a cooler box to keep drinks cold, VHF radios for communication, and electrical outlets to charge electronic gadgets.
To preserve the unspoiled safari experience, Wi-Fi is not provided in the vehicles unless required, enabling complete absorption in your surroundings. Every camp and lodge has Wi-Fi. Our cars are inspected by mechanics after each safari to guarantee they are in excellent condition.
More Safari Inspirations
Hadzabe Bushmen Tribe – hunter gatherer
Joining the Hadza men as they go out with their bows and arrows at approximately 7 AM marks the beginning of your day. As you travel with them, you’ll discover how they hunt and follow antelope and birds.
Maasai Village Visit
A visit to a Maasai village is almost inevitable when travelling to the Maasai Mara. The Maasai are mostly known for the colourful garments and jewellery they wear
Kilimanjaro National Park Day Trip
You’ll start your ascent through deep forest along a brook. The climb up the mountain and back down takes 7-8 hours and covers a distance of around 16 kilometers.
Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award Winner
For the third year in a row, we are truly honored to be recognized with the prestigious TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2023 & 2024 and 2025.
100% Tailored Safaris
No matter if you’re an individual, couple, family, or group, Meijo Safaris is here to assist you in planning your itinerary and guaranteeing that you have an incredible experience in Africa with complete confidence and peace of mind.
Experienced Safari Experts
You will have the opportunity to plan your journey with knowledgeable Safari Specialist who will guide you every step of the way. Embrace a life where you can dedicate more time to living the experience, rather than getting caught up in researching, worrying, and comparing.
Safari's FAQ
We receive many queries regarding traveling to this amazing destinations some of which we have tried to answer in our Tanzania Safari Faq's
Safari Packing List
If this is your first time in Tanzania or your first time on safari, this packing list below can help to be well prepared and comfortable during your adventure
Terms & Conditions
By making a booking with Meijo Safaris, the customer confirms that they have read, understood, and accepted these Terms and Conditions and agree to abide by them.
Need help planning? Our team is here for you
Share your travel ideas with us, and we’ll design a custom safari itinerary tailored just for you within 4 hours.