Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp is located in the rim valley of the Ngorongoro Crater. In Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation area with unrivaled access to the crater. Close to the access road that leads to the crater floor. Location is key and this epic position allows guests to beat the crowds. And be among the first to reach the action in a journey that takes less than 15 minutes. From here, enjoy incredible access to the abundance of wildlife that calls the crater home. Some 25,000 animals! Zebra, rhino, buffalo, warthog, wildebeest, hippo, elephants. And an amazing population of predators – lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs, and the elusive leopard thrive in the area.
The camp’s setting in a gathering of acacia trees is akin to an enchanted forest. Watch in awe as late afternoon light peeks through the woodland. And a campfire crackles in front of the main lounge – it’s truly magical. The Maasai people living in the area, have a deep connection with the land and animals that surround the camp. The name ‘Ngorongoro’ refers to the sound that cow bells make as the Maasai cow herds wander around the wilderness. Just one of many unique cultural legacies that add to the enchanting atmosphere of the camp.
The two large and comfortable communal tents provide a dining area. The lounge area and bar are perfect for afternoon relaxation. Or pre-dinner drinks. Along with cozy sofas thoughtfully placed in various spots throughout.
This small camp has just 10 x classic safari tents. All with en-suite bathrooms with an indoor shower, and king-size beds. All the tents also feature hairdryers, and in-room safes. A boutique seating area is in front of every tent. Offering the perfect platform for morning coffee and biscuits before heading out for a day of exhilarating game viewing.
Safari Tent
The camp is also available on an exclusive use basis for groups of friends or family. In this case, eight of the ten rooms need to be paid for.
Tanzania Family Safari
Children of 6 years and older are welcome at Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp. When booking sole use of the camp, the minimum age restriction does not apply. However, there are no formal childcare facilities in the camps. Thus children must be under the care of their parents / guardians at all times.
Children aged 6 years stay free of charge. One child (7 – 15) staying with two adults pays 50% of the adult sharing rate. When two children are staying with one adult, one child pays the standard adult sharing rate. The second pays 50% of the adult sharing rate.
For safety reasons, children aged 15 and younger must share with their parents. Two triples are available on request.
Activities
Game Drives
Enjoy thrilling game drives lead by highly qualified guides in closed 4 x 4 game viewing vehicles. Game drives are in the early morning (sunrise). And late afternoon (sunset) in the Ngorongoro Crater and on the rim. Or opt for a full day drive with a picnic lunch. An unforgettable experience is guaranteed.
The crater is densely populated with wildlife. There are no giraffe, topi or impala in the crater. They most likely find it too difficult to negotiate the crater rim cliffs. And there is also inadequate grazing for large herds of antelope, inside the crater. The crater is full of wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, eland, warthog, hippo and elephants. Supported by a year round supply of water and food, the crater supports a massive variety of animals. Including its impressive population of predators, including lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs and the elusive leopard. Key wildlife: lion, rhino, hippo, wildebeest, zebra, wild dog, leopard, cheetah, crocodile, and flamingo.
It’s important to note that park regulations stipulate game drives in the Crater are only permitted once a day. However, an optional game drive in the magnificent Lake Manyara National Park can be arranged. As an extension of transfers between Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp and Lake Manyara Airport. Dependent on flight times; an additional cost may apply.
LionessZebras
Cultural Activities
A trip to a Maasai village is a fascinating opportunity to witness the unique culture, customs and practices of one of Tanzania’s most iconic tribes. Expect a warm welcome from the Maasai, who are known for their hospitality. Before a tour of their settlements, known as ‘manyattas’. Villages are made up of small, circular mud-and-dung huts. All beautifully decorated with Maasai beadwork and fabrics and enclosed by thorn bushes to keep both predators and livestock out. The tribe’s customs and traditions centre on their cattle. Which are considered sacred, with the Maasai renowned for their herding and tracking skills.
The visit not only gives tourists an insight into the Maasai culture, with traditional dances and the chance to sample Maasai food. But it also provides a sustainable source of income for the community. Guests can enjoy cultural activities in a nearby Masai village (there is an additional entrance fee of payable to the village).
Making Your Safari Count ↓
Understanding the Dynamics
Rural African villages that border national parks are impacted hugely by human-animal conflict. Predators, such as lions and leopards are prone to hunting domestic livestock. While elephants trample on crops and raid farmers’ fields. It is essential that these communities maintain their commitment to living with wildlife. To ensure the continued survival of Africa’s animals. How? Through educating and supporting the children of these communities.
Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy
A commitment to conservation and responsible tourism is an integral part of Sanctuary Retreats’ DNA. Ever since they began in 1999, they pledged to make a positive impact on the areas in which they operate. And to nurture enduring relationships with the rural communities that live there.
Their goal is to identify and sponsor long term, viable and self-sustaining projects. That will improve the well being of local people. And earn the support of staff and visitors. All of the projects are collaborative. They work closely with the communities to understand their needs. So that they can be sure of delivering impactful initiatives. And meaningful solutions that will improve lives for generations to come. Some of the projects in Tanzania are:
Ilboru School for Children with Special Needs
Tanzanian children with hearing impairments or mental and physical special needs are often left with limited opportunities for a formal education. More than a decade ago, Sanctuary Retreats Philanthropy funded the construction of the Ilboru School for Children with Special Needs. The first primary school in Arusha designed for deaf and disabled children.
They began an innovative literacy program at the school, in partnership with Worldreader. This gave the children access to a large library of digital textbooks and literature. In both English and their native language of Swahili. Helping to improve reading comprehension and inspire a passion for learning.
Guests are welcome to visit the school, so that they can meet the teachers. And learn about the challenges of delivering special education to children in Tanzania.
Secondary School
The primary school has proven a huge success and a beacon of hope for Arusha’s disabled community. However, upon graduation, students had no choice but to return to regular mainstream education. Where teachers are not trained to deal with their unique learning needs and specialist facilities are lacking. Unsurprisingly, this resulted in a high drop-out rate.
Sanctuary has therefore amplified their support at Ilboru with the construction of a secondary school. In partnership with Tanzania’s Ministry of Education, which is providing specially trained teachers to work at the facility. In addition to standard academic courses, the school teaches vocational skills such as sewing. To increase the children’s chances of finding employment upon graduation.
Doffa Bike Shop
The Doffa Bike Shop is an enterprise that provides women with the opportunity to earn a much-needed income. While also giving their community vital access to transportation and helping to address the gender gap.
Part of the Bike Shop Program, it employs four local women who have undertaken extensive training to become bicycle mechanics. And learn the skills necessary to own and operate their own business. What makes Doffa Bike Shop unique is that all the women employed at the shop have HIV. Just a handful of the 780,000 or so women aged 15 and over that live with the virus. In parts of Tanzania, gender inequality and stigma against HIV positive individuals are still issues. Acting as major barriers to HIV prevention. Doffa Bike Shop aims to empower women to live a dignified life. Fighting discrimination and the stigma of HIV.
Stock is made up of used and donated bikes that are sent via shipping container. With new shipments received on a regular basis. All proudly paid for with proceeds of the business. Even the shop itself is part of the story. It is made from the shipping containers that brought over the very first batch of bikes. Not only does this project empower women to learn a new field of skills and support themselves. But it also helps to break down socially constructed gender norms.
Safe Water for Schools Tanzania
Sanctuary Retreats believe creating access to clean drinking water is one vital for quality of life. Not only can it save communities from infectious disease, malnutrition and health complications. But improved water supply and sanitation can also boost economic growth and help to reduce poverty.
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp Dining
Expect fantastic food and a personalized experience at Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp. Meals are all included in your stay.
Breakfast is enjoyed before the game activity. Or, packed breakfasts are a highlight offering the perfect mid-morning fuel for early morning game drives. While delicious packed lunches are provided for full days out in the bush. Prefer a more leisurely pace? Return to the camp for a late lunch and drinks in the golden afternoon sunlight. Let us organize a romantic private dinner for you.
Any special requests or dietary requirements are catered for with pleasure by the talented team of chefs. With prior notice, Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp is able to arrange halaal meals. However, please note the kitchens aren’t strictly halaal and the chefs are not trained in the food preparation. Unfortunately, kosher meals are not available.
Romantic dinners
Weather and Best time to visit Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp
Due to Tanzania’s proximity to the equator, the climate generally is warm days and cool evenings. However, due to the altitude of the Crater, it is quite cold. We advise guests to pack warm clothes when visiting this camp. There are two rainy seasons. The long rains fall in April and May (into early June). And the short rains fall in October and November. The best times to travel are December, January, February, or late June to early October.
Clothing should be cool and comfortable. Greens, browns, and khaki-colored clothing are advisable for safaris. We suggest long sleeves and long trousers and for morning and evenings due to mosquitoes. And a fleece jacket as it could be cold early mornings. Sturdy and comfortable shoes are essential. A complimentary overnight laundry service is offered in the camp. (weather dependent) Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are essential. Binoculars and good cameras are an absolute must. The camp offers complimentary mosquito repellent and toiletries.
How to get to Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp
The camp is accessible by road and air from Arusha into Manyara Airstrip. Flying time: From Arusha Airport to Manyara airstrip takes approximately 40 minutes Road transfer: To drive from Arusha to Ngorongoro takes about 2.5 hours and then 45 minutes to 1 hour to Crater Camp. From Manyara airstrip, it is about a 2.5-hour drive to camp
Please note all inter-camp flights are done by light aircraft and flying times are dependent on multiple pick-ups and drop-off times. The luggage restriction is 15kg / 33lbs per person in a soft-sided bag.
Below are the game package rates in USD. The full board rates are available should you be driving to camp yourselves / with your own guide. Therefore they don’t include transfers and game drives.
Game package rates, in USD in a Safari Tent
Length of stay (Per Person Sharing)
1-3 Nights
4-6 Nights
7+ Nights
Low: 3rd January – 31st March 2024
$585
$468
$439
1st April – 31st May 2024
Closed
High: 1st June 2024 – 2nd January 2025
$825
$743
$660
Please note:
There is no supplement for single occupancy of a maximum of 3 x tents in the low season. Further single occupancy bookings in the low season are subject to a 50% single supplement. In high season, singles will pay a 50% single supplement.
Game package rates include: All meals All drinks (excluding premium brands) Laundry, and daily housekeeping Two daily shared game viewing activities. These include morning and afternoon game drives. This can also be a full day safari. Return transfers to and from the airstrip to the camp 24-hour on-site staff and security Emergency medical evacuation.
Excludes: Park, Camping and Concession Fees. Plus Tourism Development Levy. International and domestic flights, landing fees, Road transfers to and from other camps and lodges. Travel insurance, Boutique purchases, Masai Village contribution, Gratuities, and all other items of a personal nature.
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp Accommodation Special Offers
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp Honeymoon Offer
Book at least 2 nights and one partner gets 50% discount on accommodation. For a honeymoon safari like no other!
This special offer can be combined with our existing long stay discount for even greater savings.
Valid for travel within 6 months of marriage certificate Offer does not apply to GK Suite at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp, GK Suite at Sanctuary Olonana or Private Villa at Sanctuary Tambarare
Guests celebrating their honeymoon will receive special surprises during their stay. All attempts are made to keep honeymooners separate from other guests. Honeymoon services include: Private bush picnic (subject to the site and vehicle availability) Private dinner Romantic turndown
Single Supplement Offer
The single supplement is wavered for all Sanctuary camps and lodges in April 2024 and October 2024. This is in addition to the standard waiver of single supplements in low season.
Stay 3 Pay 2 in East Africa
Stay 3 nights at Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp and receive your 3rd night free.
Travel valid from 1st October 2024 – 21st December 2024
Can be combined with the long stay discount.
Family / Group Travel Offer
Experience a family group safari like no other at our camps and lodges across Africa.
For groups of eight full paying guests, one guest travels free For groups of 12 full paying guests, two guests travel free with two private vehicles
Valid for travel from 1st February – 31st May, 1st October – 21st December 2024, 3rd January 2025 – 30th April 2025 Valid for travel to all Sanctuary camps and lodges across East and Southern Africa Groups with 6+ full paying adults. Children aged 6+ count towards the min pax Cannot be combined with any other offers Excludes Geoffrey Kent Suite at Sanctuary Olonana and Chief’s Camp. Plus the Private Villa at Sanctuary Tambarare
