Beyond the famous Ngorongoro Crater, the wider Ngorongoro Conservation Area’s highlands hold Empakaai Crater, a smaller, little-visited caldera reached by a genuine hiking descent — this itinerary combines both craters with Serengeti game drives for travellers wanting the region’s less-explored side alongside its icons.
Detailed Itinerary
Arusha to Ngorongoro Highlands
A drive into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, arriving at your lodge on the crater rim.
Ngorongoro Crater Descent
A full day on the main crater floor, one of the highest wildlife densities anywhere in Africa.
As above
Empakaai Crater Hike
A guided hiking descent into Empakaai Crater, a smaller, forested caldera holding a soda lake and flamingo populations, seeing a fraction of the main crater’s visitor numbers.
As above
Ol Doinyo Lengai Viewpoint, Maasai Village Visit
Views of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the region’s active volcano sacred to the Maasai, plus a visit to a local Maasai community in the highlands.
As above
Transfer to Serengeti National Park
A drive to the Serengeti’s endless plains, with an afternoon game drive on arrival.
Full Day Serengeti Game Drives
A full day across the plains for lion, leopard, elephant and, seasonally, the Great Migration.
As above
Second Serengeti Game Drive Day
A further day exploring different sectors of the park.
As above
Return to Arusha
Drive back to Arusha, timed against your onward flight.
Permits & Costs
| Ngorongoro Conservation Area fee | ~$70 per person per day, plus crater descent fee |
| Empakaai Crater hiking fee | Included in tour price |
| Serengeti park entry | ~$82 per person per day |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Travellers with a genuine interest in hiking and geology alongside classic game viewing, or repeat visitors wanting to see beyond the standard crater visit.
Tour Includes
- Travel in a 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof hatch
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Conservation fees & crater descent
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Visas
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
How strenuous is the Empakaai Crater hike?
Moderate — a guided descent and ascent on established trails, considerably shorter and less demanding than a full trekking expedition.
Is Ol Doinyo Lengai climbable on this itinerary?
Not included as a summit climb here — this itinerary offers viewpoints only; a full ascent is a separate, more technical undertaking we can arrange on request.
Ready to Plan This Trip?
Tell us your dates and we’ll confirm lodges within one business day. Get in touch to start planning.