Ngorongoro
Conservation Area
Here, sprawling savannas teeming with wildlife coexist with lush forests and the archaeological marvel of Olduvai Gorge, offering a glimpse into both the deep past and the vibrant present of Africa.
Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area isn’t your typical national park. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that cradles a unique ecosystem within a massive volcanic caldera. The centerpiece is the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest unbroken caldera on Earth. Imagine a giant cauldron, formed millions of years ago by a collapsing volcano. Now, picture its floor teeming with life – a vast, natural sanctuary for a staggering array of wildlife.
This rich biodiversity is no accident. The crater’s volcanic origins left behind fertile lands, permanent water sources, and diverse habitats. From the crater floor’s grassy plains to the forested slopes and the alkaline lake (Lake Magadi), Ngorongoro provides a haven for everything from lions and elephants to zebras and flamingos. Nicknamed the “Eden of Africa,” it’s estimated to have the highest concentration of wildlife per square kilometer in Africa.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
For prime wildlife viewing, the dry season (June to October) reigns supreme. With short grasses and animals concentrated around waterholes, spotting creatures like lions, elephants, and rhinos becomes easier. However, this period coincides with peak tourist season, translating to higher prices and larger crowds.
Go on a safari drive in the Ngorongoro Crater. This is the most popular activity in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and for good reason. The crater is home to a large concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, zebras, wildebeest, and flamingos.
Explore the Lerai Forest. The Lerai Forest is a small acacia forest located on the slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater. The forest is home to a variety of birds and animals, and it’s a great place to go for a walk or a hike.
Visit Olduvai Gorge. Olduvai Gorge is an archaeological site located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The gorge is famous for its hominid fossils, which have helped to shed light on human evolution.
Hike the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. If you’re looking for a more challenging activity, you can hike the rim of the crater. The hike is about 5 kilometers long and offers stunning views of the crater floor.
Go on a photographic safari. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a photographer’s paradise. With its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, there are endless opportunities to capture amazing photos.
Learn about the conservation efforts in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fragile ecosystem. There are a number of conservation organizations working to protect the area and its wildlife. You can learn more about their efforts by visiting a visitor center or talking to a park ranger.
Fun facts about Ngorongoro Conservation Area