Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Enjoy a guided hike to the top of Olmoti for staggering views or take a trip to the soda lake in Empakaai Crater to see thousands of pink flamingos. Around 25,000 large animals live in the 30,000-hectare Ngorongoro Crater- one of Africa's new Seven Natural Wonders.  

Ngorongoro is a great safari destination all year round. However, to avoid crowds, we recommend travelling in January and May. On the other hand, July and August offer the best wildlife viewing, but they are also the busiest months. 

Game Drives: Join us for an unforgettable game drive on the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater floor. Our knowledgeable and personable guides will accompany you in comfortable seven-seater vehicles equipped with power points and fridges. Enjoy Tanzania's renowned wildlife while enjoying a picnic lunch and other amenities. Come and experience the magic of nature with us. 

Wildlife: With wildlife neatly contained within the crater, you’re sure to have incredible sightings of a wide variety of species that call the crater floor their home. Species you’re likely to see include lion, black rhino, zebra, buffalo, Thompson’s and Grant’s gazelle, and elephant.  

Predators: With so many animals contained within the crater walls, predators are never far off, hoping to capitalise on this. Leopards and lions can be found prowling the area in search their next meal, 

Olmoti Crater Climb: The hike begins at a ranger station at the foot of Olmoti, just a brief drive from the camp. We follow an ancient Maasai cattle path that meanders through mountainous forests, grassy plains, and rocky outcrops while catching glimpses of various bird and butterfly species along the way. Upon reaching the summit, our hikers are treated to breathtaking vistas of the crater below. 

Empakaai Crater Climb: Join a Ngorongoro Conservation Area ranger for a half-day excursion to Empakaai Crater. Hike down the crater's walls to reach the famous soda lake where thousands of pink flamingos flock, creating a picturesque pink lakeshore. Absorb the breathtaking tranquillity and serene scenery while enjoying delicious snacks on the crater floor before hiking through the forested slopes to return to the crater rim. 

Community & Cultural Visits: Come and spend an afternoon with the Maasai people in a nearby village to discover their traditional way of life. Additionally, you can explore a market that supports local traders or join herders as they bring their cattle back to their bomas (enclosures) on a walk. 

The Asilia Spa at The Highlands offers a variety of relaxing massages for tired muscles and an intimate barrel sauna for a hot cleanse. 

Nestled in a forest on the rim of Olmoti Volcano, The Highlands is a stunning retreat that blends luxury and culture. Our award-winning camp invites you to explore the wonders of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife. 

The Highlands is situated on the northeastern slopes of Olmoti Crater, providing our guests with stunning views of the Ngorongoro Hills and Gol Mountains. The camp is perched at the highest point in the area, surrounded by a beautiful forest filled with orchids, elephant, bushbuck, and monkeys. Additionally, the crater is home to the largest concentration of predators in the world.  

Experience Ngorongoro uniquely by allowing Asilia Africa to create a personalised safari itinerary tailored to your preferences. Our experienced trip planners will guide you every step of the way, offering expert advice to ensure a genuine and extraordinary safari experience. Look at these sample itineraries to help inspire and kick-start your journey.