Ngorongoro Highlands Trekking

Into the volcanic heart of the Ngorongoro Highlands

Leave the safari vehicle behind and explore the Ngorongoro Highlands on foot, where ancient volcanic landscapes, lush forests, open grasslands, and Maasai communities create an extraordinary setting for adventure. The experience can take you to Empakaai Crater and Olmoti Crater, two beautiful volcanic landscapes that offer a completely different perspective of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

At Empakaai Crater, trek along the dramatic crater rim before descending through lush forest towards the crater floor, where a beautiful soda lake rests among the surrounding vegetation. The views from the rim are spectacular, stretching across the highlands and, on clear days, towards the distant Great Rift Valley and Ol Doinyo Lengai. At Olmoti Crater, a shorter but rewarding hike leads through montane forest and open highland scenery to the crater rim, where you can look down into the peaceful volcanic depression and discover the Munge Waterfall flowing into the surrounding landscape.

Together, Empakaai and Olmoti offer an unforgettable way to experience the Ngorongoro Highlands beyond the traditional safari. Walking through these ancient volcanic landscapes allows you to slow down, breathe in the highland air, discover hidden scenery, and connect more closely with the land and communities that call this extraordinary region home.

Additional Information

The trekking experience can be tailored around Olmoti Crater, Empakaai Crater, or both, depending on your available time, fitness level, and safari itinerary. The treks are guided and can be incorporated into a private safari through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Olmoti is generally the gentler of the two hikes, while Empakaai involves a more demanding descent and ascent into the crater. Good hiking shoes, drinking water, sun protection, and layered clothing are recommended, as temperatures and weather can change quickly in the highlands.

Places Made for This Experience

Across Tanzania and Africa, every destination brings its own character to an experience. Discover the places where this journey can unfold, from open savannahs and forests to wetlands and remote wilderness, each offering a unique landscape, atmosphere, and way to experience Africa.

Your Questions, Answered

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Experience

Every experience is unique, and we know you may have questions before your journey begins. From the best time to visit and what to bring, to what to expect along the way, our frequently asked questions provide the essential details you need to feel prepared and confident. Explore the answers below and discover how we make every experience with Back to Eden Adventure seamless, comfortable, and memorable.

Olmoti offers a shorter hike through forest and highland scenery, with views of the crater and Munge Waterfall. Empakaai is larger and involves a longer, more challenging trek into the crater.

Yes. Both can be included in a private trekking experience, depending on your fitness level, available time, and overall safari itinerary.

You can experience volcanic landscapes, montane forests, crater lakes, waterfalls, birds, wildlife, spectacular highland views, and Maasai communities.

The dry months from June to October are generally ideal for trekking, offering more comfortable walking conditions and clearer views. The green season can also be beautiful, with lush vegetation and vibrant landscapes.

Olmoti is generally moderate, while Empakaai is more challenging, particularly because of the steep descent into and climb out of the crater. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended for both.

Your Extraordinary Journey Awaits

Your journey is designed to inspire discovery, adventure, and unforgettable moments. Explore our carefully crafted itineraries or let us create a personalized experience that matches your travel style, interests, and dreams of Tanzania.

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Our guests leave with more than memories—they leave with stories to share and moments they will never forget. With 5-star reviews from travellers around the world, we are proud to create journeys filled with genuine care, unforgettable experiences, and the beauty of Tanzania.

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Guide63644279770
July 9, 2026
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Incredible Safari Back to Eden Aventures did an amazing job organizing an incredible 10 day safari for our family of four. Their communication was timely, clear and fully transparent which made planning effortless. The itinerary was flexible and they added activities based on our preferences without any hassle. Thanks to their thoughtful planning, we thoroughly enjoyed our safari vacation and had an unforgettable experience. We highly recommend Gift and his team.
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hima a
June 25, 2025
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Incredible experience with Back to Eden Adventures As the Great Migration season kicks off in June, I'm excited to share my unforgettable Safari experience in Tanzania with Back to Eden Adventures. Their expert guide Hassan took us on thrilling game drives, bringing us face-to-face with incredible wildlife. We savored every moment, eagerly awaiting sightings of lions and cheetahs in action. The highlight of our trip was a luxurious 2-day glamping adventure deep in the middle of forest, with impeccable service from the staff. Special thanks to Laurent and Gift and for their exceptional customer service, which truly made our experience unforgettable. We highly recommend Back to Eden Adventures to anyone planning a Tanzanian adventure.
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Fearless15898388495
January 18, 2025
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7-Day Kilimanjaro Trek We recently completed the 7-day Machame trek with Back To Eden Adventures and it was an absolutely incredible experience. The entire team, from our guides to the porters, were exceptional. The itinerary was well-paced and allowed us to acclimatize properly. We enjoyed stunning views throughout the trek, and the campsites were well-chosen and offered incredible vistas.
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adin43
December 4, 2024
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Great safari experience! Planned a trip for my parents and another couple, and they had an amazing time! They mentioned Laurent specifically took very good care of them during the whole tour and to their particular needs whether it was the food, their medical conditions etc. I definitely recommend this tour for safari in Serengeti. Reach out to Laurent! He's so easy to get along with and communicate with so that you can plan in advance with him before your trip.
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Beatrice B
December 4, 2024
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Amazing Kilimanjaro Experience An amazing experience in the Kilimanjaro! We did the Marangu Route and Back to Eden helped us with every step of the way: prior, during and after. From the logistic team to the porters and guide team, our experience in the mountain was incredible! Totally recommend them for small or large groups.
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Voyage61643334116
December 4, 2024
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Magical African Safari We had an amazing trip with Back to Eden Adventures. Everything was well organised and we didnt face any difficulties during the trip. They understood are requirements and curated a customised itinerary based on our needs. Our tour guide was also great and very helpful. It was a wonderful trip and we had a good time. Thanks to Back to Eden Adventures.
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garybraka
July 7, 2024
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Sérieux et disponible Organisation top en amont avec beaucoup de disponibilités et de réponses à toutes les questions. Le voyage est cher donc c’est important d’avoir un maximum de réponses pour s’organiser au mieux. La voiture était top et le chauffeur avait réponses à tout. Profitez

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