8-Day Exclusive Trek Through the Ngorongoro Highlands

Northern Circuit Adventure Tanzania

🥾 Trek the Ngorongoro Crater Highlands

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through one of Tanzania’s most stunning landscapes 🌍. The Ngorongoro Crater Highlands are celebrated for their:

🌄 Dramatic topography: Rolling hills, volcanic craters, and sweeping views.
🐾 Rich biodiversity: Home to diverse wildlife and vibrant ecosystems.
🛖 Cultural heritage: Interactions with the Maasai, adding depth to your journey.
This unique region is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering breathtaking scenery and an immersive connection to Tanzania’s natural and cultural treasures.

🌟 Plan your highland adventure today!

The trek typically begins at the crater rim, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the crater below. As you traverse the highlands, you’ll encounter diverse ecosystems, including lush forests, open grasslands, and the striking landscapes of the crater itself. The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and numerous bird species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife spotting.

One of the highlights of the trek is the chance to explore the ancient calderas and volcanic craters, such as Olmoti and Empakaai, which are known for their unique geological features and vibrant ecosystems. The trek also allows for immersion in the local Maasai culture, as you may encounter traditional villages and learn about the customs and lifestyle of the Maasai people. The trek is typically organized over several days, allowing for ample acclimatization and exploration of the breathtaking scenery. The combination of stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and cultural experiences makes trekking over the Ngorongoro Crater Highland a truly unforgettable journey. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a novice adventurer, this trek offers something for everyone in one of Africa’s most iconic destinations.

8-Day Walking Safari Itinerary: Trekking Over Ngorongoro Crater Highland

📍Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Activities: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Arusha.
Highlights: Meet your guide for a pre-safari briefing and check your gear. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Arusha and prepare for your trek.

📍Day 2: Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater Rim

Elevation: 1,400 m to 2,300 m (4,593 ft to 7,546 ft)
Distance: Approximately 18 km (11 miles)
Duration: 5-6 hours

Highlights:
Depart Arusha and drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Start your trek along the crater rim, taking in breathtaking views of the crater below.
Arrive at your campsite for dinner and overnight stay, surrounded by stunning landscapes.

📍Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater Rim to Olmoti Crater

Elevation: 2,300 m to 2,400 m (7,546 ft to 7,874 ft)
Distance: Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles)
Duration: 4-5 hours

Highlights:
Trek towards Olmoti Crater, exploring the unique flora and fauna of the area.
Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way. Set up camp at Olmoti Crater and take an evening walk to spot wildlife.

📍Day 4: Olmoti Crater to Empakaai Crater

Elevation: 2,400 m to 3,200 m (7,874 ft to 10,499 ft)
Distance: Approximately 14 km (8.7 miles)
Duration: 5-6 hours

Highlights:
Continue your trek, descending into the stunning Empakaai Crater, known for its soda lake and diverse birdlife. Spend the afternoon exploring the crater and spotting flamingos and other wildlife.
Camp overnight near Empakaai Lake, surrounded by spectacular scenery.

📍Day 5: Empakaai Crater to the Great Rift Valley

Elevation: 3,200 m to 2,500 m (10,499 ft to 8,202 ft)
Distance: Approximately 15 km (9.3 miles)
Duration: 5-6 hours

Highlights:
Trek out of Empakaai and down into the Great Rift Valley, experiencing changing landscapes.
Enjoy a picnic lunch en route and take in the unique geological features of the area.
Set up camp for the night with stunning views of the valley.

📍Day 6: Great Rift Valley to Lake Natron

Elevation: 2,500 m to 1,800 m (8,202 ft to 5,905 ft)
Distance: Approximately 18 km (11 miles)
Duration: 5-6 hours

Highlights:
Trek towards Lake Natron, known for its vibrant colors and diverse wildlife.
Visit the lake’s edge and spot flamingos and other bird species.
Camp overnight at Lake Natron, enjoying the serene atmosphere.

📍Day 7: Lake Natron to Ngorongoro Crater

Elevation: 1,800 m to 2,300 m (5,905 ft to 7,546 ft)
Distance: Approximately 20 km (12.4 miles)
Duration: 6-7 hours

Highlights:
Begin your trek back towards Ngorongoro Crater, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.
Arrive at your campsite at the crater rim, where you can relax and enjoy the views.
Prepare for your final day of exploration.

📍Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater Tour and Departure

Activities: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive.

Highlights:
Experience one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations, home to a variety of animals including elephants, lions, and rhinos. After the game drive, return to Arusha for your onward journey or transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure.

Additional Notes:
Preparation: Ensure you have the appropriate trekking gear and supplies.
Health & Safety: Stay hydrated and follow your guide’s advice for safety and acclimatization.
Guides & Porters: Experienced guides and porters will assist you throughout the trek.
This itinerary offers a unique and immersive experience in the Ngorongoro Highlands, combining trekking with wildlife observation and stunning landscapes.

Enjoy your adventure!

Price Includes

✅ All park entry fees
✅ Concession fees
✅ Ranger & guide for walking
✅ Flying Doctor Service
✅ All park camping fees
✅ Pickup from the airport
✅ Ngorongoro Crater service fees
✅ Accommodation at hotels, lodges, tented camps, or campsites according to the safari program
✅ Chef services
✅ Meals as per the itinerary above
✅ English-speaking driver/guide
✅ Transport in a 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof
✅ Bottled drinking water (1.5 liters per person per day during the safari)
✅ One-night complimentary hotel accommodation upon your arrival in Arusha, including breakfast
✅ Camping equipment: tents, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, pillows, chairs, tables, and mosquito nets