How to Get to Ngorongoro Crater from Arusha
How to Get to Ngorongoro Crater from Arusha, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area can be visited as part of an extended safari program that encompasses other parks, including Lake Manyara and Serengeti. The conservation area is located approximately three hours’ drive along a paved road from Arusha, the primary departure point for safaris in northern Tanzania.
Starting from Arusha town, one can explore the diverse National Parks within Tanzania’s northern safari circuit via chartered flights or opt for a road trip to complete this exhilarating circuit. Typically, Arusha Car Rental will greet you upon your arrival at the airport or in Arusha town, subsequently coordinating all further arrangements, including chartered flights to the parks, according to your specifications.

International flights to the town of Arusha.
The most advisable method to get Arusha town is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), situated around 46 kilometers or 29 miles from Arusha town. One can also fly directly to Julius Nyerere International Airport, located near the capital city of Dar es Salaam, and subsequently transfer to Arusha Airport (ARK). An alternative is to book a less expensive flight to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, and then take a shuttle bus to Arusha.
Domestic flights to Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Arusha Car Rental can assist in organizing a chartered flight to Ngorongoro Crater as an element of your safari package, with several domestic airline operators available, including Air Tanzania, Precision Air, Safari Air Link, among others.
Given that the Ngorongoro Crater is approximately a three-hour drive from Arusha, we recommend completing the final transfer to your accommodation at the crater or in the adjacent town of Karatu by road. Game drives and road transfers in the Ngorongoro Crater region are conducted in open-sided 4×4 Land Cruiser vehicles.
Guidelines for the Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Exercise caution when selecting accommodation; lodges on the crater rim provide unparalleled views and immediate access to the crater floor, yet the adjacent town of Karatu provides a broader array of lodging options and activities.
The Ngorongoro Crater attracts significant crowds during the dry season, particularly at notable wildlife sightings and favored dining areas. To experience fewer visitors, consider visiting during the rainy season from April to May.
The Ngorongoro Crater is an outstanding place for a family safari due to its plethora of wildlife and numerous child-friendly accommodations. Contact Arusha Car Rental for a lifetime safari adventure in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania.

