Ngorongoro Crater Entrance Fee Overview
The Ngorongoro Crater entrance fee is a key cost for visitors to this UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tanzania. Known for its stunning 260 km² caldera and over 25,000 animals, including the Big Five, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) requires specific fees for entry, vehicle access, and activities. This guide provides the latest fees, additional costs, and tips to plan an affordable safari. All fees are subject to an additional 18% VAT and may change, so confirm with your tour operator or the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) before your trip.
Ngorongoro Crater Entrance Fees
The entrance fee to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, including the crater, is charged per person per day and is valid for a single entry within 24 hours. Below is a detailed breakdown:
1. Conservation Area Entrance Fees
| Visitor Category | Age | Cost (USD/TZS) |
|---|---|---|
| Non-East African Citizens | 16+ years | $70.80 |
| Non-East African Citizens | 5–15 years | $23.60 |
| East African Citizens/Tanzanians | 16+ years | TZS 11,800 |
| East African Citizens/Tanzanians | 5–15 years | TZS 2,360 |
| Expatriates/Residents | 16+ years | $35.40 |
| Expatriates/Residents | 5–15 years | $11.80 |
| Children (All Categories) | Under 5 years | Free |
Note: These fees are required for all visitors entering the NCA, even if transiting to Serengeti without descending into the crater.
2. Crater Service Fee
To descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, an additional fee is charged per vehicle:
| Visitor Category | Cost (USD/TZS) |
|---|---|
| Non-East African Citizens | $295 per vehicle |
| East African Citizens/Tanzanians | TZS 11,800 per vehicle |
Note: This fee is per vehicle, not per person, making group tours more cost-effective.
[](https://www.explore2africa.com/travel/ngorongoro-crater-entrance-fee-post-458/)
Tip: Pay fees via credit card (Visa/MasterCard) at the gate or through CRDB bank prepaid cards to avoid cash transactions, which are not permitted.
Additional Ngorongoro Crater Fees
Beyond entrance and crater service fees, other costs may apply based on your activities:
1. Camping Fees
| Visitor Category | Public Campsites (USD/TZS) | Special Campsites (USD/TZS) |
|---|---|---|
| Non-East African Citizens (16+ years) | $35.40 | $70.80 |
| Non-East African Citizens (5–15 years) | $11.80 | $35.40 |
| East African Citizens/Tanzanians (16+ years) | TZS 11,800 | TZS 17,000 |
| East African Citizens/Tanzanians (5–15 years) | TZS 5,900 | TZS 8,850 |
2. Walking Safari Fees
Guided walking safaris (e.g., Endoro Nature Trail, Elephant Caves) vary by duration:
- Non-East African Citizens: $23.60 (16+ years), $11.80 (5–15 years) per person.
- East African Citizens/Tanzanians: TZS 11,800 (16+ years), TZS 5,900 (5–15 years).
- Duration: Short walks (1–4 hours) or long walks (4+ hours) may affect costs.
3. Cultural and Other Attraction Fees
- Olduvai Gorge, Shifting Sands, Laetoli Footprints: $35.40 (16+ years), $11.80 (5–15 years) for non-East Africans; TZS 5,900 (16+ years), TZS 1,180 (5–15 years) for East Africans.
[](https://wildlifesafaritanzania.com/2022-ngorongoro-crater-entrance-fees/)
- Bush Lunch Permit: Additional fee for dining in the crater, varies by visitor category.
Note: Fees for activities like hot air balloon safaris or Maasai boma visits are separate and arranged through tour operators.
Total Safari Costs for Ngorongoro Crater
A typical Ngorongoro Crater safari costs $280–$1,360 per person per day, including entrance fees, accommodation, and tour type:
1. Accommodation Costs
- Budget Camping: $30–$60 per person per night (e.g., Simba Campsite).
- Mid-Range Lodges: $120–$300 per person per night (e.g., Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge).
- Luxury Lodges: $500–$1,000+ per person per night (e.g., &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge).
[](https://www.tourradar.com/sg/ngorongoro-fees)
2. Safari Tour Costs
- Group Day Trip: $280–$400 per person, ideal for budget travelers.
- Private Safari: $500–$1,000+ per person per day, tailored for exclusive experiences.
- Multi-Day Safari: $800–$1,360 for a 2-day trip, often including Serengeti or Tarangire.
[](https://www.explore2africa.com/travel/ngorongoro-crater-entrance-fee-post-458/)
Tip: Group tours and camping during the wet season (April–May) can reduce costs significantly.
Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater entrance fee remains constant year-round, but the season affects your experience:
| Season | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Season (June–October) | Wildlife Viewing | Animals gather near water; clear visibility; less vegetation. | Higher costs; more crowds. |
| Wet Season (November–May) | Budget and Scenery | Lush landscapes; fewer tourists; lower accommodation rates. | Muddy roads; dispersed wildlife. |
| Shoulder Season (January–February) | Balanced Experience | Good wildlife sightings; moderate crowds; some cost savings. | Occasional rain showers. |
Recommendation: Visit in June–October for prime game viewing or January–February for a quieter, cost-effective trip.
Tips to Manage Ngorongoro Crater Entrance Fees
- Book with a Tour Operator: Local operators often bundle entrance and crater service fees, saving you hassle.
- Join a Group Tour: Share the $295 crater service fee with others to lower per-person costs.
- Avoid Self-Driving: Self-drives can lead to unexpected fees (e.g., transit fees for Serengeti). Use a reputable operator to streamline costs.
- Pay Fees in Advance: Use CRDB Bank or credit cards (Visa/MasterCard) to prepay fees and avoid gate delays.
- Combine Parks: Pair Ngorongoro with Serengeti or Tarangire for multi-day tours to maximize value.
Important: Cash payments are not accepted at the gate. Use credit cards or prepay at CRDB bank branches in Arusha, Moshi, or elsewhere.
Why Visit Ngorongoro Crater?
The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a natural wonder with a 600m-deep caldera hosting elephants, black rhinos, lions, and more. Despite the entrance fees, the crater’s unique ecosystem and dense wildlife make it a must-visit for safari enthusiasts. The fees support conservation efforts, ensuring this paradise remains protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ngorongoro Crater entrance fee for 2025/2026?
Adults (16+): $70.80 (non-East African), $35.40 (expatriates), TZS 11,800 (East Africans). Children (5–15): $23.60 (non-East African), $11.80 (expatriates), TZS 2,360 (East Africans). Under 5: Free.
What is the crater service fee?
$295 per vehicle for non-East Africans and TZS 11,800 for East Africans are required to descend into the crater.
[](https://www.explore2africa.com/travel/ngorongoro-crater-entrance-fee-post-458/)
Can I pay the entrance fee at the gate?
Yes, via credit card (Visa/MasterCard) or CRDB bank prepaid cards. Cash is not accepted.
Are there discounts for group tours?
Group tours share the crater service fee ($295), reducing per-person costs. Contact a tour operator for deals.
What other fees should I expect?
Camping ($35.40–$70.80), walking safaris ($11.80–$23.60), and cultural visits ($11.80–$35.40) may apply.
Plan Your Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Ready to experience the Ngorongoro Crater? Contact our safari experts to design a personalized itinerary that fits your budget, including all entrance fees and activities.
