1 Day Tanzania Big Five Safari to Ngorongoro

Join our 1-day Tanzania Big Five safari to Ngorongoro Crater. Spot lions, rhinos, and elephants with expert guides on this efficient African wildlife tour.

1 Day Experience the 1-Day Tanzania Big Five Safari in Ngorongoro Crater

This 1-day Tanzania Big Five safari is the best way to see Africa’s iconic animals in a very short time. You will visit the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural sanctuary where lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and the rare black rhino live within the caldera walls. Our professional guides use their expertise to track these species efficiently, making this 1-day Big Five safari in Tanzania a high-quality wildlife experience. It is perfect for travelers with a tight schedule.

Tour Highlights:

  • Day 1 : Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater – Back to Arusha
  • Arrival Day: Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha

    Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha

    Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), our driver will meet you and provide a private transfer to your hotel in Arusha. The drive covers 50 kilometers and takes about 1 hour. This day is for resting and receiving a briefing about your upcoming 1-day Big Five safari in Tanzania. You may see the peak of Mount Meru from the city. This evening allows you to prepare your gear and meet your guide to discuss the early morning departure for the crater.

    Destination: Kilimanjaro Airport

    Accommodation: • Kibo Palace Hotel

      

    Meals & Drinks: Lunch, Dinner

    Day 1: Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater – Back to Arusha

    Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater – Back to Arusha

    The safari begins with an early 6:00 AM departure for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The 180-kilometer drive takes about 3.5 hours. You will descend 600 meters into the crater floor for a full day of game viewing. You will search for the rare black rhino, lions, and massive bull elephants. A positive and unexpected moment often occurs at the hippo pool, where you can watch these massive animals surfacing while you enjoy a picnic lunch. After a full game drive, you will begin the return journey, arriving in Arusha by 7:00 PM for your flight home.

    Destination: Ngorongoro Crater

    Accommodation: Kibo Palace Hotel

      mid rage 3 star lodge

    Mid rage 3 star lodge

    Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    TOUR PRICE/COST

    We offer two pricing options:

  •   Private Tour (Sharing Price)
  • The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.

  •   Group Joining Tour
  • Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.

    Private (Shared) Price

    No of pax Adult Child
    1 pax $0  pp $0  pp
    2 pax $0  pp $0  pp
    3 pax $0  pp $0  pp
    4 pax $0  pp $0  pp
    5 pax $0  pp $0  pp
    6 pax $0  pp $0  pp
    7 pax $0  pp $0  pp

    Group joining price

    AdultChild
    $0  pp $0  pp

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  •  Sleeping bag or bed linen
  •  Rescue fee
  •  Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
  •  All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
  •  Camping equipment (only sleeping bag/bed linen may be listed as excluded)
  •  All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  •  All Taxes/VAT
  • Exclusions
  •  International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
  •  Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  •  Tips: tipping guideline
  •  Personal items
  •  Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • The Booking Form

    RELATED FAQS ABOUT 1 Day Tanzania Big Five Safari to Ngorongoro

    What can I expect to see during my 1-day Tanzania Big Five safari in Ngorongoro?

    You can expect to encounter the legendary Big Five which includes lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and the rare black rhino. The crater's enclosed ecosystem provides a high density of wildlife making it possible to spot these animals in just one day.

    What time does the safari start and end for a single day excursion?

    Typically, the trip starts very early in the morning around 6:00 AM from Arusha or Karatu to maximize wildlife viewing time. You will spend about six hours on the crater floor before heading back in the late afternoon

    Are meals provided during the Ngorongoro crater floor tour?

    Yes, a picnic lunch box is included and usually enjoyed at a designated site near the hippo pool. We also provide bottled drinking water throughout the day to keep you hydrated during the game drive.

    Can I customize this 1-day safari to include a visit to a Maasai village?

    Yes, it is possible to add a visit to a nearby Maasai boma as part of your day trip. However, this might slightly reduce the time spent inside the crater, so it is best to discuss your priorities with your guide.

    Is it guaranteed that I will see all the Big Five animals in one day?

    While the Ngorongoro Crater has one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, sightings are never 100 percent guaranteed as animals move freely. However, your chances of seeing the Big Five in this specific location are much higher than in almost any other park in Tanzania.

    What type of vehicle will be used for the Ngorongoro game drive?

    You will travel in a 4x4 safari land cruiser with a pop-up roof for optimal 360-degree viewing and photography. These vehicles are specifically designed to navigate the steep descent and ascent of the crater walls safely.

    What should I wear for a day trip to the Ngorongoro Crater?

    It is recommended to dress in layers because the crater rim can be quite cold in the morning while the floor gets warm by midday. Neutral-colored clothing and a good pair of binoculars will significantly enhance your viewing experience.

    If I have more time, can I extend my 1-day safari into an overnight stay?

    If you decide to extend your trip, we can arrange for an overnight stay at a lodge on the rim or in nearby Karatu. This alteration depends on lodge availability and would change the package from a day trip to a multi-day safari

    Are there any extra fees I should be aware of for this safari?

    The package generally covers park fees, crater service fees, and professional guide fees. Personal expenses like tips for the driver, alcoholic beverages, and travel insurance are usually not included in the standard price.

    Is this short safari suitable for families with young children?

    Yes, this trip is family-friendly as the driving distances are manageable and the wildlife is visible almost immediately upon entering the crater. Children often enjoy the excitement of spotting animals from the safety of the vehicle.

    REVIEWS FOR 1 Day Experience the 1-Day Tanzania Big Five Safari in Ngorongoro Crater

    Write a Review

    Arusha's Highlight: 1-Day Big 5 Safari to Ngorongoro Crater

    5/5

    Our day trip to the crater was absolutely breathtaking and well-organized. We managed to see four of the Big Five in just a few hours. The guide from Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD was incredibly knowledgeable about the local bird species as well. It was the highlight of our short stay in Arusha.

    By: Michael Thompson
    From: Flag US

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    A wonderful morning spent in the company of lions

    5/5

    Everything was perfect from the early morning pickup to the drop-off. The views from the rim are something I will never forget. Our driver was very patient while we took hundreds of photos of the lions. Highly recommended for anyone with limited time.

    By: Sarah Müller
    From: Flag DE

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    Comfortable Vehicle & Excellent Service

    5/5

    I was surprised at how much we could see in just one day. The picnic lunch by the hippo pool was a unique experience that we really enjoyed. Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD provided a very comfortable vehicle for the rough terrain. I would definitely book with them again.

    By: James Harrison
    From: Flag GB

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    First Hour Magic: Black Rhino Spotted!

    5/5

    We saw the rare black rhino within the first hour of our game drive! The landscape inside the crater is like something out of a movie. Our guide knew exactly where to find the cheetahs hiding in the tall grass. It was a long day but totally worth every second.

    By: Emily Chen
    From: Flag CA

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    Best Way to See Tanzania: Professional Service, Big Herds, & Open Roof Views

    5/5

    A very professional team that handled everything seamlessly. The car was in great condition and the roof opened up for great views. We saw huge herds of buffalo and many elephants. It is the best way to see Tanzania's wildlife if you are on a tight schedule.

    By: Pierre Dubois
    From: Flag FR

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    Unforgettable Ngorongoro: Dense Wildlife & Exceptional Team

    5/5

    Truly a magical experience in the Ngorongoro Crater. The density of animals is just mind-blowing. We even saw a pride of lions on a hunt near the lake. The service provided by the team was top-notch and very friendly.

    By: Chloe Williams
    From: Flag AU

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    Great planning,fresh meals,and a magical leopard Encounter

    5/5

    I highly recommend this tour for the incredible scenery and animal sightings. We were lucky enough to see a leopard resting in a tree. The lunch provided was fresh and filling for a full day of exploring. Communication before the trip was excellent and very helpful.

    By: Javier Garcia
    From: Flag ES

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    A magical Day in the wild

    5/5

    Burigi Chato Safaris CO LTD made our dream of seeing African wildlife come true. Even though it was only one day, we felt we saw everything we wanted. The crater is a natural wonder that everyone should visit at least once. Our guide was very expert at spotting animals from far away.

    By: Marco Rossi
    From: Flag IT

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    An Unforgettable Family Safari Adventure

    5/5

    What an amazing adventure for me and my teenage kids. They were glued to the windows the whole time looking for animals. Seeing the elephants up close was a memory we will cherish forever. The logistics were handled perfectly without any stress for us.

    By: Amanda Scott
    From: Flag US

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    Seamless Safari Experience with Respect for Nature

    5/5

    This was an efficiently run tour that delivered on its promises. We had plenty of time for game viewing despite it being a one-day trip. The guide was very respectful of the animals and the environment. It was a great value for the money spent.

    By: Bram van den Berg
    From: Flag NL

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