Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Where the cradle rocks the big five.

Explore Ngorongoro Conservation Area for wildlife safaris, Maasai culture, archaeological sites, and diverse birdlife in Tanzania.

4.4
out of 5

Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania is a unique protected area where the conservation of natural resources harmonizes with human development. Home to the famous volcanic Ngorongoro Crater and the "Big Five" of African wildlife, it is a vital refuge for some of the densest populations of large mammals. The area also bears a deep human history, evidenced by the Olduvai Gorge where some of the earliest known human fossils have been discovered.

Wildlife Viewing in the Ngorongoro Crater

One of the main draws to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive caldera that provides a natural enclosure for a vast array of African wildlife. Visitors can embark on a wildlife safari to see the "Big Five" - lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinoceroses. The high concentration of wildlife in the crater, including the endangered black rhino, makes for unparalleled viewing opportunities. Additionally, the area's lakes attract numerous aquatic birds and provide a space for hippos to bask.

The Maasai Community

The conservation area is unique in that it is one of the few places in Africa where human habitation coexists with wildlife. The indigenous Maasai people live in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area along with the flora and fauna they help preserve. Visitors can learn about Maasai traditions and lifestyle through village visits and cultural tours.

Olduvai Gorge - The Cradle of Mankind

Olduvai Gorge, often referred to as "The Cradle of Mankind," is an essential archaeological site located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The gorge is renowned for its early human fossils and stone tools estimated to be millions of years old. Tours are available that take visitors to the site where some of the most significant discoveries related to human evolution were made.

Hiking and Walking Safaris

For those interested in exploring Ngorongoro beyond the confines of a vehicle, hiking and walking safaris present an engaging alternative. Guided walks offer a more intimate experience with nature and can reveal the smaller wonders of the ecosystem not easily viewed from afar.

Bird Watching

With over 500 bird species recorded in the area, Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a haven for bird watchers. The diverse habitats, from forests to grasslands to freshwater lakes, support an incredible variety of birds including ostriches, flamingos, and many birds of prey. Look out for exceptional bird watching opportunities especially near Lake Magadi at the base of the crater.

Accessibility

The primary method of accessing Ngorongoro Conservation Area is via road from Arusha, with most visitors arriving as part of an organized safari tour. Within the area, transportation is typically provided by safari vehicles capable of navigating the rugged terrain. For those desiring independence, renting a 4x4 vehicle is an option but be prepared for challenging driving conditions.

Average temperatures during the day in Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

What people say about Ngorongoro Conservation Area

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