Hiking is not permitted within the crater itself, due to the risk of becoming lunch for a hungry lion. But the surrounding Ngorongoro Conservation Area of rolling grasslands, dotted with Maasai homesteads and lumbering volcanic peaks, makes fabulous walking safari country.

There are no specific hiking routes here, but a good walking safari specialist will present you with options of varying distances and durations.

Typically you’ll spend a few hours walking to and around the crater rim before arriving at a simple fly camp for your overnight.

Your operator will organise your guide – a Maasai guide ideally – plus meals and transport.