Overview
5-Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari
The 5‑Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari is a carefully planned journey through three of Tanzania’s most famous wildlife areas. You will start at Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree‑climbing lions, pink flamingos, and beautiful forest and lake scenery. From there, you travel to the Serengeti National Park, home to vast open plains, large herds of animals, and predators like lions and cheetahs. The highlight of your trip is the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see the Big Five and have a rare chance to spot the endangered black rhino.
Throughout your safari, you will be guided by experienced experts who know the best places to find wildlife. You will enjoy game drives in stunning landscapes, experience the dramatic views of the Rift Valley, and visit Maasai villages to learn about their culture and traditions. Each night, you will stay in comfortable lodges or camps close to the parks, so you can relax after a day of adventure. This trip offers a perfect mix of wildlife, scenery, and culture for an unforgettable Tanzania experience.
5-Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari Itinerary
Glide silently over Serengeti as the sun rises, revealing wildlife below. End your aerial adventure with champagne and a gourmet breakfast in the bush.
Day 1 - Moshi / Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) / Arusha to Arusha National Park

Proceed to Arusha National Park - a small national park which includes the slopes, summit and ash cone of Mount Meru, the Momela Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater, and the lush highland forests that blanket its lower slopes. You will spend the night in and around Arusha.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 1-2 hours
- Expected game drive: Afternoon
- Meals usually included: Lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Walking safari, canoeing safari
- Extra activities or add-ons excluded: Game drive in Arusha National Park, cultural activities, walking safaris, canoeing safari
- Commonly seen animals: Giraffe, buffalo, zebra, warthog, impala, flamingo, waterbuck
Night 1 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: African Tulip Hotel

Style: Mid range hotel
Location: Arusha, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Outpost Lodge

Style: Budget range
Location: Arusha (leafy residential area of Usa River, near Arusha city centre)
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Gran Melia Hotel

Style: Luxury range
Location: Arusha, Tanzania (Simeon Road, surrounded by coffee plantations and gardens)
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Arusha Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Arusha National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 2 - Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Depart from Arusha to Tarangire National Park for your game drive today. Tarangire is famous for it's herds of elephants and giant Babobab trees. You will spend your day exploring these savannah plains and spend your night in and around Tarangire
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 2-3 hours
- Expected game drive: Afternoon
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Walking safari
- Commonly seen Animals: Elephant, giraffe, hippo, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, lion, jackal, vulture, warthog, impala, ostrich, hyena, waterbuck, blue monkey.
Night 2 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Tarangire Safari Lodge

Style: Mid‑range
Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Tarangire Kati Kati Tented Camp

Style: Budget tented camp
Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Tarangire Elephant Springs
Style: Luxury range
Location: Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Tarangire Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Tarangire National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 3 - Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park

Today you drive to Lake Manyara National park - situated at the bottom of the western wall of the spectacular Great Rift Valley. You will spend your day exploring this small safari park with a variety of habitats and slightly varied scenery to the usual savannah based parks. Later proceed towards your overnight location in Mto wa Mbu, Karatu or on the Ngorongoro crater rim.
Quick facts
- Distance from previous location: 2-4 hours
- Expected game drive: Morning, afternoon
- Optional activities: Cultural walks, canoeing safari, night game drive
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Commonly seen: Elephant, giraffe, hippo, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, vulture, warthog, impala, flamingo, marabu, hyena, waterbuck, dik-dik, blue monkey.
Night 3 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Farm of Dreams Lodge

Style: Mid‑range colonial‑style lodge (approx. 4★)
Location: Karatu, near Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Octagon Lodge

Style: Budget‑range
Location: Karatu Arusha, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge

Style: Luxury colonial lodge
Location: Karatu, near Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lobo Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Serengeti National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 4 Olmoti and Empakai Craters

You drive today to the Nainokanoka ranger post in the Ngorongoro highlands and hike to the rim of Olmoti Crater (hiking time between 1-3 hours). Continue to Empakai Crater for the second hike of the day of 1-3 hours. You will spend your night on the Ngorongoro crater rim or in the highlands.
Night 4 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Embalakai Ngorongoro Camp

Style: Mid‑range tented camp
Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Kuhama Camp

Style: Budget friendly tented camp
Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area, eastern rim of Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Meliá Ngorongoro Lodge

Style: Luxury range
Location: Arusha, Tanzania (Simeon Road, surrounded by coffee plantations and gardens)
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Simba Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Ngorongoro
No website available
No reviews available
Day 5 - Ngorongoro Crater to Moshi / Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) / Arusha

Your final day on safari starts with an early departure down into the Ngorongoro Crater where it's not uncommon to find all of the Big 5 in one day, and likely where you will spot a black Rhino if you didn't find one in the Serengeti. You can spend a maximum of 6 hours inside of the crater in one day and you will end your safari this evening at Arusha, Moshi or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for night flights.
Quick facts
- Distance from previous location: 4-5 hours
- Expected game drive: Maximum 6 hours
- Optional activities: None, speak to your consultant
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation options
- None included but you can add pre / post tour accommodation to any of our safaris on request in Arusha, Moshi or around Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Prices, Inclusions & Custom Options
Enjoy flexible pricing with key inclusions, and tailor your 5-Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari with optional cultural experiences or luxury upgrades.
Private group (private departure)
please request a quoteScheduled group (shared departure)
please request a quote* All prices are in USD ($) and serve as indications only for a standard package excluding pre/post accommodation, add-ons and comfort upgrades.
Scheduled departures for Complete North safari are currently not available however for small groups we can consider offering your dates for others to join.
Standard packages usually include
- Explore the breathtaking Ngurdoto, Empakai, Ngorongoro & Olmoti Crater, where rolling grasslands, sparkling lakes, and dramatic volcanic walls shelter an extraordinary concentration of wildlife, from the elusive black rhino to prides of lions roaming freely in their natural kingdom.
- Venture into the heart of Arusha National Park, where Ngurdoto Crater’s lush slopes and the shimmering Momella Lakes reveal giraffes gliding gracefully across the plains, flamingos painting the waters pink, and rare colobus monkeys leaping through ancient forests.
- Immerse yourself in the timeless culture of the Maasai Highlands, stepping into traditional homesteads to share stories with elders, witness spirited warrior dances, and experience the warmth and pride of a people deeply connected to their land.
- All government taxes, VAT, and local levies
- Full safari itinerary coverage, including crater descent fees
- Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, radio calls, English-speaking driver-guide, charging ports, and luggage space (soft bags, max 20kg per person).
- 1.5 litres bottled water per person per day
- Comfortable, handpicked full-board lodges depending on category selected)
- For basic camping at special campsites: Portable camping shower and toilet (with porter to service)
Optional extras, add-ons and comfort upgrades
Looking for more comfort or a tailored experience? Explore our optional upgrades, add-ons, and customization ideas below.
Standard packages usually exclude
- Tips and gratuities for guides, cooks, hotel staff and other crew
- Beverages such as soft drinks, bottled juices, and alcoholic drinks (unless your accommodation is booked with an all inclusive drinks package)
- International flights. Learn more about international airports.
- Insurance. Learn more about insurance.
- Visas. Learn more about visas.
- Personal items not specifically listed in the inclusions
Trip Add-Ons & Comfort Upgrades
Enhance your 5‑Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari with cultural visits, luxury lodge upgrades, and personalized experiences to make your journey even more memorable.

Tarangire Walking Safari

Premium Picnic Lunchbox

Mto wa Mbu Village Walk

Ngorongoro Walking Safari

Mto wa Mbu Rift Valley Plateau Hike

Maasai Village Cultural Visit

Lake Manyara Night Game Drive

Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway

Olduvai Gorge Museum Visit

Tarangire Hot Bush Lunch with Miracle Experience

Karatu Elephant Cave & Endoro Nature Walk

Karatu Coffee Estate Farm Tour
Essential Information for Your 5-Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Discover expert tips, insider advice, and practical details to ensure your Ngorongoro Crater safari is seamless, comfortable, and filled with unforgettable moments.

Travel Info for Tanzania

Which Airport to Choose?

Vaccinations & Health Tips
Photos & Videos at 5-Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Explore stunning images and videos capturing close‑up wildlife encounters, panoramic crater views, and the unforgettable landscapes you’ll experience on this incredible safari journey.
Why Book Your 5-Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari Tour with Shah Tours?
Benefit from our decades of safari expertise, experienced guides, and deep local knowledge to enjoy a safe, well‑planned, and truly unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes.

Decades of Cultural Safari Expertise

Local Guides Who Understand the Land

Safe, Comfortable & Respectful Travel
Frequently Asked Questions About 5-Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari in Tanzania
Find expert‑answered questions on itinerary plans, wildlife sightings, best travel seasons, park rules, and key tips to prepare for a memorable Ngorongoro Crater safari in Tanzania.
Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Crater for Wildlife Viewing and Ideal Weather
The best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater is the dry season from June to October, when rainfall is minimal, the grass is short, and wildlife including predators gathers around scarce water holes. This makes game viewing optimal and landscapes golden and expansive. Although July to September are the busiest and most expensive months, June offers slightly fewer crowds and excellent conditions. Shoulder seasons like January to March or November combine pleasant weather with fewer visitors at a lower cost
Time to Spend at Ngorongoro Crater
At Shah Tours, we recommend one full day at Ngorongoro Crater for the perfect balance of game viewing and travel time. A single, well-planned day allows you to descend into the crater at sunrise, explore its rich habitats, and spot the Big Five, including the endangered black rhino. For those seeking a slower pace or more photographic opportunities, adding a second day can enhance the experience. However, due to the crater’s compact size, one day is usually enough for a complete and unforgettable safari.
Ngorongoro crater wildlife - Discover the Big Five and rare African species
Ngorongoro Crater is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, making it one of the best safari destinations in Africa. Visitors can spot the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and the endangered black rhino. The crater also hosts large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle, alongside hyenas, jackals, and hippos. Birdlife is abundant, with flamingos on Lake Magadi and over 500 recorded species. Seasonal sightings include cheetahs and servals, while the dense predator population offers exceptional game viewing year-round.
Best Ngorongoro crater Accommodations
Ngorongoro Crater offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. Luxury choices include Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge, Meliá Ngorongoro Lodge and Farm of Dreams Lodge, both offering stunning views and premium amenities. Mid‑range and budget options include Ngorongoro Kuhama Camp, Octagon Lodge, and nearby Outpost Lodge in Arusha for pre‑ or post‑safari stays. These properties range from luxury lodges with fine dining and pools to comfortable tented camps and eco‑friendly lodgings, ensuring a memorable stay within easy access to the crater.
Top things to do in and around ngorongoro crater
In and around Ngorongoro Crater, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities beyond classic game drives. Popular options include full-day crater tours for exceptional wildlife viewing, guided walking safaris along the crater rim, and birdwatching at Lake Magadi. Cultural experiences with the Maasai offer insight into traditional life. Nearby attractions include the Olduvai Gorge Museum, a cradle of human history, and scenic hikes to Empakaai Crater or Olmoti Crater. Photographic safaris, picnics, and seasonal wildebeest calving in Ndutu also enhance the experience.
Nights to Spend on a Tanzania Safari for the Best Experience
For an ideal safari itinerary, most travelers spend 5 to 9 nights, depending on the number of parks and travel distances. This allows 2–3 nights in each major destination, giving time for multiple game drives and varied wildlife sightings. For a deeper experience, 10–12 nights can include remote parks, cultural visits, and seasonal highlights. Spending fewer than 4 nights often feels rushed, while longer stays allow you to immerse yourself in the landscapes, observe animal behaviors, and enjoy a more relaxed pace.
Crater Weather and best seasons for your safari
Ngorongoro Crater has a mild, temperate climate year-round due to its high elevation (about 2,200 meters/7,200 feet). Dry season runs from June to October, with sunny days, cool mornings, and minimal rainfall ideal for wildlife viewing. Short rains occur in November and December, bringing brief showers and lush scenery. Long rains fall from March to May, making roads muddier but landscapes vibrant. Average daytime temperatures range from 16–24°C (61–75°F), with colder mornings and evenings, especially from June to August. Warm layers are recommended year-round.
Ideal Tanzania Safari Duration
The ideal duration for a Tanzania safari is typically 7 to 10 days, allowing enough time to explore multiple parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara without feeling rushed. A shorter 4–6 day safari can still deliver memorable wildlife encounters, especially during the Great Migration or in concentrated wildlife areas. For a more immersive experience with varied landscapes, wildlife, and cultural visits, 10–14 days is best, ensuring optimal game viewing and a relaxed pace for travel between destinations.
Other Tours & Destinations Connected to 5-Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Complement your crater adventure with unique experiences, from tracking the Great Migration in the Serengeti and exploring Tarangire’s baobab valleys to escaping to Zanzibar’s idyllic shores.

Northern Tanzania Safaris

Mount Kilimanjaro Treks

Ngorongoro Highlands Trekking

Cultural Tours in Tanzania

Usambara Mountains Hiking

Kilimanjaro Culture & Coffee Walks
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My group of five colleagues and I climbed Kilimanjaro via the seven-day Machame Route with Shah Tours. Communication with Ramon before and after the climb was seamless and extremely professional. All questions were answered quickly and promptly. Even a glove I forgot in my rental luggage was later delivered to my hotel in Arusha by our guide. Our guides, Baraka, Hillary, and Felix, were excellent mountain guides who provided outstanding support throughout the tour and kept our spirits up even during the most challenging moments. The food during the climb was always freshly prepared. We usually had soup as a starter, followed by either a stew with rice or noodles, or, for example, potatoes with fried fish or meat. A delicious pizza was served the evening before the summit attempt. I would also like to commend the rest of the crew for their consistently positive attitude and courteous service. The rental equipment was of good quality. However, on a future tour, I would opt for better sleeping mats, as the standard ones became quite thin after a while. Overall, it was a great experience to do the climb with Shah Tours.
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Nils Bindauf14 September 2026Verified
Kilimandscharo It was the best experience we have ever had with Shah Tours. We always felt completely comfortable and well taken care of. The guides, porters, and cook were incredibly kind and friendly. They always greeted us with a smile and even sang for us. Even at 4,700 meters above sea level, they baked us a cake because it was our wedding anniversary. That was such a special and unforgettable gesture. I can honestly say that this was one of the most amazing experiences of our lives, and we would recommend Shah Tours to anyone without hesitation! Thank you all and best wishes to Mathayo, Felix and the Team! We miss you guys.
Laura S2 September 2026Verified
7-Day Kilimanjaro Machame circuit climb Our Kilimanjaro trek via the 7-day Machame Route was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The admission fee for our group of 12 was included in the tour package. The route itself was breathtaking, with incredible scenery that changed every day—from lush rainforest and dramatic valleys to rocky alpine landscapes and the spectacular summit views above the clouds. What truly made the trip exceptional was the professionalism and kindness of the Shah Tour and guides with special mention of Matheyo. The Matheyo and team was organized, supportive, and attentive throughout the hike. Our guides set a steady, comfortable pace, constantly checked on everyone’s wellbeing, and shared valuable encouragement and knowledge about the mountain. Their experience and calm leadership gave us confidence, especially on the more challenging summit night. The porters and camp crew also deserve enormous appreciation. They worked incredibly hard to make sure we were comfortable, well fed, and prepared each day. The meals were delicious and surprisingly varied for a mountain trek, and the camps were always ready when we arrived. Reaching Uhuru Peak was one of the proudest moments of our lives, and we could not have done it without this amazing team. We highly recommend this company to anyone planning to climb Kilimanjaro on the Machame Route. Their care, expertise, and genuine commitment to their guests made this adventure truly special.
2jipatel25 August 2026Verified
Great Kili hike Great hike! Guides and support staff handled all the logistics and we made it up to the summit. A challenging hike, but our experience was great
Cooper N22 August 2026Verified
Pole pole to the roof of africa with Shah, was great. When deciding which company to book for our Kilimanjaro and Safari trip in Tanzanie we have been in contact with several companies. We wanted to do the private tour as a couple. We had 9 full days to organize. Firstly we thought we will do 7 days and 2 days safari (Tarangire and Ngorngoro). Nevertheless, as our priority was Kilimanjaro we selected 8 days Lemosho route to increase our chances to reach the top. This left only 1 day for safari first. I was trying to discuss with companies the options to go faster If we feel well and then possibly have time to do both national Parks of Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Shah Tours tourned out to be the only very flexible operator to offer this option of shortening the trip If everything goes well. So, on the day 6, when arriving to Kosovo camp from Karaga camp, we asked If we could proceed with our summit on the same day, they did not hesitate to support us. During the whole trip the guides (Innocent and Leon) and the porters shared very positive energy and support. A Lot of dancing, laughter and happy faces even in hard moments. Finally, thanks to all that, we manager to finish our hike in 7 days instead of 8 and had enough time to include another day of safari in our itinerary. No planning, no phone calls, no waiting. Shah was monitoring our progress and once the office received the message we are descending on day 7, everything was organized (additional accomodation and guide for safari, food and transport). We had amazing time in tanzanie, Thank you Shah Tours for your work and efforts in making our trip unforgetable.
Anna M17 August 2026Verified
Enjoyed We started our tour with 4 guides, the walk through the different terrains was an amazing experience, i was happy that Shah Tours catered for vegan food through and the chef cooked delicious food apt for mountain climbing. This route was hard for me as a beginner but i made it. All the personal porters were amazing.
Krunali G16 August 2026Verified
An unforgettable experience we wouldn't want to miss Great, motivating guides, superbly organized tour, very customer-focused, friendly, courteous, and very attentive porters… absolutely no complaints! Highly recommended!
Esther D12 August 2026Verified
Unique, years-long contact with Shah Tours. There's nothing better for travel off the beaten track.
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Andreas kurt B6 August 2026Verified
Kilimanjaro I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with Joker as the main tour operator and Shah Tours as the local partner. It was truly an unforgettable experience, thanks to the amazing team that supported us throughout the entire trek. Our head guide, Calvin, and our second guide, August, were both incredibly experienced, professional, and motivating. Their knowledge and guidance made me feel safe and confident every step of the way. They did everything they could to help us reach the summit safely and successfully. The entire crew, including the porters and cooks, was outstanding. After seven days together on the mountain, they felt like a second family. Their kindness, encouragement, and dedication made this challenging adventure even more special and memorable. I highly recommend Joker and Shah Tours to anyone planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Thank you for an incredible experience—I will never forget it!
Justine A25 July 2026Verified
Just do it whit shah tours! We had a great experience!! From emails at home to pickup, hotel,... Shoutout to our guide Mathayo, he's the best. Amazing work by the porters!! So much respect.
Lennert F24 July 2026


