Ngurdoto Crater in Arusha
Ngurdoto Crater, a volcanic structure, lies within the Meru district in northern Tanzania’s Arusha region. Often called a mini Ngorongoro crater, it is encircled by lush forests, with marshy grasslands covering the crater floor. Spanning about 3.6 kilometers in width and 100 meters in depth, the crater is also home to swamps that complicate game drives in the area. Formed by volcanic activity, Ngurdoto Crater sits approximately 1800 meters above sea level.
During safaris to the Ngurdoto Crater, there are limited viewpoints available along the Tanapa-built dirt road due to the surrounding forest. However, several constructed viewpoints provide ideal views of the crater, designed with safety features such as benches and raised viewing platforms. Notable viewpoints include: Rhino on the southern rim, Mikindu in the south, Rock viewpoint in the southern crater, Buffalo viewpoint, and Glades on the northern rim. Leitong, situated on the northern rim, is the highest at an elevation of about 1824 meters above sea level. It offers stunning views of the Kilimanjaro ranges, Momella lakes, and nearby agricultural land.
Activities in Ngurdoto Crater, Arusha
Travelers engaged in safaris to Ngurdoto Crater can participate in various activities:
Nature Walks or Walking Safaris
This popular activity for travelers visiting Arusha takes place under the guidance of a ranger, who is armed for safety. Rangers can be hired at the Ngongongare Gate, which belongs to Arusha National Park, where payments are also made. During these nature walks, visitors may encounter buffalo, baboons, elephants, warthogs, colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and more.
Bird Watching
Ngurdoto Crater is home to a variety of wildlife within the park. Bird species found in the area include crowned eagles, hornbills, secretary birds, flamingos, and many others.
Canoeing
This is another exciting activity for travelers at Arusha National Park, typically done on Momella lakes, where visitors can find flamingos, hippos, scaly spur fowl, silver-cheeked hornbills, Pangani longclaws, and more.
Game Drives
Game drives occur in Arusha National Park, showcasing diverse landscapes like savannah plains, rainforests, and the crater rim. During these drives, participants can see various wildlife, including buffalo, zebras, warthogs, elephants, and baboons. Predators such as hyenas, leopards, and cheetahs are also present, although they are rarely spotted. Game drives are typically conducted in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
Scenic Viewing of the Crater Rim
While on safari, several scenic points along the crater rim are available for viewing, each offering unique perspectives. Viewpoints like the rhino viewpoint and rock viewpoint provide opportunities for photography and bird watching.
Hiking Mount Meru
Hiking Mount Meru is yet another adventure for travelers visiting the crater, offering views of Tanzania’s second-highest mountain, which stands at 4566 meters above sea level. This hike is more challenging than the crater hike, and on clear days, it offers spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Accommodation Options Near Ngurdoto Crater in Arusha
Various accommodation facilities within Arusha National Park cater to different budgets, ranging from budget to luxury options. Travelers can select from several lodges, including Hatari Lodge, Arusha Coffee Lodge by Elewana, Mountain Game Lodge Meru, Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge, African View Lodge, Momella Wildlife Lodge, Twiga Lodge and Campsite, Meru Mbega Lodge, and more.
How to access the Ngurdoto Crater in Arusha?
Ngurdoto Crater is easily accessible by road. It is located 30 kilometers from Arusha town and Kilimanjaro International Airport. A 4×4 safari van takes approximately one hour to reach the crater.
