Tanzania · Hiking

1-Day Empakai Crater Hiking Tour from Arusha with Flamingo Lake

1 Day Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Hike through lush forests to a soda lake frequented by flamingos and other birdlife
02 Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the serene caldera and its lush slopes
03 Spot buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and antelope in a less touristy corner of Ngorongoro
04 Have a picnic lunch in a tranquil setting with scenic views of the crater

Embark on a full-day adventure to the serene Empakai Crater, a hidden gem in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Hike through lush forests to reach the tranquil soda lake at the crater's base, where flamingos and wildlife thrive. Enjoy breathtaking views, a picnic lunch, and a peaceful escape into nature before returning to Arusha by evening.

The caldera is home to a wide range of wildlife, including buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species, and is also a prime spot for birdwatching, especially flamingos that often frequent the lake below.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 1 Day

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Languages English, French, German, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Empakai Crater Day Trip from Arusha

Early Morning: Depart from Arusha

Departure: Leave Arusha early, typically around 5:30 AM, to maximize your time at Empakai. The drive is approximately 3 to 4 hours (about 150-160 km), depending on the route and road conditions.
Route: The journey takes you through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, passing beautiful savannah landscapes and Maasai villages along the way.

Mid-Morning: Arrive at Empakai Crater

Arrival Time: You should arrive at Empakai Crater by 9:00 AM or 9:30 AM, depending on stops and travel time.
Empakai Crater Overview:
- Empakai is a beautiful 6 km-wide caldera formed by a collapsed volcano, creating a lush, forested environment with a large lake at the bottom. It is less touristy than the Ngorongoro Crater but just as stunning.
- The caldera is home to a wide range of wildlife, including buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species, and is also a prime spot for birdwatching, especially flamingos that often frequent the lake below.

Midday: Explore Empakai Crater

Hike Down to the Lake:
- After arrival, you'll embark on a guided hike down to the lake, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your pace.
- The trail is steep but manageable, with beautiful views over the caldera walls, dense vegetation, and an ever-changing landscape. Along the way, you may spot various wildlife grazing in the area.
- The hike provides an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area up close, with panoramic views over the caldera and its lush forested slopes.
Lake Empakai:
- Upon reaching the bottom, you'll find a beautiful soda lake, often home to flamingos and other bird species. The sight of the birds in this tranquil setting is a unique experience.
- This is a great spot for photos and a short rest while absorbing the peaceful atmosphere of the crater.

Afternoon: Lunch and Scenic Views

Lunch: You will have a picnic lunch, either at the lake (if accessible) or back at a viewpoint overlooking the crater. Your guide can provide a packed lunch, or you can enjoy it at one of the designated picnic areas.
Optional Walking Safari: After lunch, if you have time, you can take a short walk around the crater's rim or through the forest, depending on your energy levels.

Late Afternoon: Departure and Return to Arusha

Departure from Empakai Crater: After your visit, begin the drive back to Arusha, leaving around 2:30 PM or 3:00 PM.
Arrival in Arusha: You should be back in Arusha by 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, depending on traffic and stops.

Where this trip takes you

Empakai Crater caldera, Lake Empakai and flamingos, Ngorongoro Conservation Area savannah

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 2 cities · 1 Day

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Transport:
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide.
- Fuel and all transportation costs for the round-trip drive from Arusha to Empakai Crater and back.
Park and Conservation Area Fees:
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area fees (required for entry).
- Empakai Crater entry fees for accessing the caldera and surrounding areas.
Guided Hike:
- Professional guide for a guided hike down to the lake inside the caldera. The guide will provide valuable information about the area, its geology, wildlife, and history.
Meals:
- Picnic lunch: a packed lunch, often including sandwiches, fruit, snacks, and a drink, to enjoy at the crater or a scenic viewpoint.
- Bottled water throughout the trip to stay hydrated.
Wildlife Viewing:
- Wildlife spotting: your guide will help spot wildlife such as buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species.
- Birdwatching: includes bird species like flamingos and other waterfowl around the lake.
Photography Opportunities:
- Scenic views of the crater, lake, and wildlife, ideal for photography.

What's Not Included

Personal expenses: souvenirs, tips, or any personal items not included in the package.
Travel insurance: highly recommended but not usually included in the tour package.
Alcoholic drinks: these are typically not included in a standard safari package.
Tips
International flight
All optional activities
All personal insurance

What to bring

Comfortable hiking shoes (for the walk down to the lake)
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (for protection against the sun)
Camera (for the fantastic photo opportunities)
Warm layers (early mornings and evenings can be cool, especially on the crater rim)
Binoculars (for birdwatching)

Logistics