Where to stay in the Ngorongoro Crater?
There’s no doubt the Ngorongoro Crater is the main drawcard to people coming to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Established in 1959 as a multiple-use land, this conservation area comprises many unique geographical features – including craters, plains, and archaeological sites – but the Ngorongoro Crater is a wonder to behold.
People do come here to appreciate geography and to search for famous games like the Big Five. Rhinos roam the shrubland in peace while lions command the open plains with their unique roar, which can be heard 8 km away.
Elephants in their big herds move slowly in forests, swaying their trunks, finding nearby water holes while leopards camouflage in sausage trees. Before you stare at the green crater rim, a 400-size buffalo herds sweep the grasslands.
In the whole conservation, only this 264-square-kilometer caldera hosts more than 25,000 large animals, making your day trip or two-day safari remarkably rewarding. The enormous caldera, however, does not have accommodations on the floor.
There are a few lodges and camps on the crater rim, with the most being exclusively luxurious. They offer spectacular views of the crater itself and the animals residing in it. If you can’t afford these, we recommend staying in the conservation area and the highlands area.
Entamanu Camp
Offers stunning views of the crater, a true haven for those seeking luxury in the pristine wildlife of Africa. Built in a canvas-and-wood style, the camp takes inspiration from the surroundings. It overlooks both the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, giving the chance to experience these world-famous wildlife destinations. It also offers unique sundowning opportunities.
You can go hiking, game driving, a cultural trip to the Maasai boma, or a guided walk on the crater rim or conservation area (not in the crater). The price range is $885-$1,550 per person sharing.
Plantation Lodge
Lies in the Highlands area, with coffee plantations on every side. This lodge is an affordable option, an alternative to luxury camps on the crater rim. In addition, it permits exploration of nearby places like Serengeti, Lake Manyara, Empakai, and Olmoti Craters.
You can visit the Maasai communities or indulge in wellness treatments in a spa. The lodge offers delicious meals and excellent staff service. Price ranges between $240-$315 per person sharing.
Lemala Ngorongoro Camp
The finest of the Lemala Collection, this camp lies on the other side of the crater rim. Often with a game around it and proximity to the Lemala crater, this camp brings luxury in the African bush.
The twelve tents offer a more rustic experience while the delicious meals offered mix the local cuisines and international tastes. Guided walks, Maasai tour and game drives are available. Its rates are between $635 and $1,010 per person sharing.
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Nestled on the rim, the lodge derives its inspiration from the Olduvai Gorge cave paintings. You can notice that in its main décor. Enjoy archaeological tours to Olduvai Gorge and cultural trips to the Maasai.
The lodge offers affordable stays, yet with stunning views of the crater, sunrise, and game drives. Being a large lodge, it offers a variety of rooms with a price range from $165 to $335 per person sharing.
Kirurumu Ngorongoro Camp
Set on the edge of the crater rim, Kirurumu Ngorongoro Camp comes with a safari style, something many authentic guests love. It has 10 safari tents, with designs fitting perfectly into the natural surroundings.
Located near Maasai villages, visits from this camp are a must-do thing to any guest. If you prefer simple tents over large hotels and lodges, why not stay in this camp? Its excellent lodge staff service, delicious meals, and outdoor activities like Maasai visits, guided nature walks, and game drives are worth $958 per person.
Lion’s Paw Camp
Set closer to the crater bowl, Lion’s Paw offers an intimate safari experience. Luxury here feels more perfectly blended with safari-style camping. The camp has 15 stylish tents, suiting solo travelers, honeymooners, and families, all of which come at an affordable price of $450 per person. You’ll enjoy guided walks with a private guide or relaxing wellness treatments in a spacious spa.
The Manor at Ngorongoro
Set adjacent to the conservation area, this offers luxury in its Cape Dutch style 18 guest suites, sitting in a coffee estate. From this lodge, you can go for day trips to the crater, Lake Manyara, Olduvai Gorge, and Maasai villages in Karatu.
The bottom line
The Ngorongoro Crater is a must-visit destination for perfect immersion in nature and culture. Yet, you can’t stay inside this spectacular caldera, but a stay on its rim is one of a kind. For more rustic and affordable options, you can stay in the conservation area or nearby highlands. Karatu, a nearby town, also offers a variety of places to stay.
So, what do you think? We’ve contracted the list of accommodations in the Ngorongoro Crater, but if you want more options, we are here to help you. Reach out to us at Salt Holidays to start planning your African safari.
