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Ngorongoro crater
Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous safari destinations in Tanzania. It is a massive collapsed volcanic caldera, measuring about 20 kilometers in diameter and covering an area of roughly 260 square kilometers. The crater was formed around 2-3 million years ago after a volcano erupted and collapsed on itself, creating a natural basin that has since become a rich wildlife haven.
The crater floor is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including grasslands, swamps, forests, and salt flats, which support a wide variety of animals. It is known for having one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses), as well as wildebeests, zebras, hyenas, and over 500 species of birds. The dense population of animals makes Ngorongoro one of the best places to witness large herds and predators in action, often in close proximity.
What makes Ngorongoro unique is its enclosed nature; animals are confined within the caldera, giving visitors the opportunity to see a remarkable density of wildlife in a relatively small area. The Ngorongoro Crater Rim offers stunning panoramic views of the crater below, while visitors can descend into the caldera to explore the floor and its vibrant wildlife. Additionally, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area surrounding the crater is a place of cultural significance, as it is inhabited by the indigenous Maasai people who coexist with the park’s wildlife.
Ngorongoro Crater is not just a paradise for animal lovers, but also for those fascinated by geology, history, and culture. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and cultural significance, Ngorongoro remains one of Tanzania’s most iconic natural attractions.
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Why Visit Ngorongoro conservation area
Visiting Ngorongoro Crater offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, making it one of the top destinations in Tanzania. Here are several compelling reasons to visit:
1. Incredible Wildlife Viewing
The crater floor is teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses), along with wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and more. Due to the high concentration of animals within the crater, visitors have a rare chance to see a large variety of species in one place, often up close.
2. Unique Ecosystems in One Place
Ngorongoro is a blend of different ecosystems, including grasslands, forests, and swamps. These diverse habitats support a wide array of wildlife, creating a rich and dynamic environment to explore. Whether you’re interested in watching animals in the open plains or exploring the lush forests, Ngorongoro offers something for every type of nature lover.
3. Breathtaking Scenery and Views
The panoramic views from the Ngorongoro Crater Rim are spectacular. Standing on the rim, you can see the expansive crater below, offering a unique perspective of one of the world’s most famous geological formations. The beauty of the landscape is equally impressive during the descent into the crater, with the varied terrains unfolding before you.
4. High Chances of Spotting the Big Five
Because of its relatively small size and high concentration of wildlife, Ngorongoro provides some of the best opportunities to see the Big Five in their natural habitat. Visitors can often spot all five species in a single day, which is rare in other parks.
5. Rich Cultural Heritage
The Ngorongoro area is not just a haven for wildlife; it’s also home to the indigenous Maasai people. Visitors can learn about the Maasai culture, traditions, and their harmonious relationship with the land and animals, providing an enriching cultural experience alongside the natural wonders.
6. A Natural Wonder of the World
Ngorongoro Crater is often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” due to its geological and ecological significance. It’s one of the largest inactive volcanic craters in the world, offering a unique glimpse into the earth’s past. The crater’s formation and ongoing natural processes make it a fascinating destination for geology enthusiasts.
7. Year-Round Accessibility
Unlike many other parks that experience seasonal changes, Ngorongoro Crater is accessible year-round. While the dry season (June to October) offers the best wildlife viewing conditions, the wet season (November to May) brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, creating a more peaceful and serene experience.
8. Ideal for Safari Enthusiasts
For anyone looking for the ultimate safari experience, Ngorongoro Crater provides an unforgettable opportunity. It’s an ideal location for game drives, with a variety of landscapes, abundant wildlife, and often close encounters with animals.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, or learning about Maasai culture, Ngorongoro Crater offers something for every type of traveler, making it a must-visit destination in Tanzania.
Things to do
Visit the Ngorongoro Crater Rim
Game Drives
Explore Olduvai Gorge
Walking Safaris
Cultural Visits
Birdwatching
How to get there?
By Air
The nearest airport to Ngorongoro Crater is Arusha Airport (ARK), which is about 180 km from the crater. From Arusha, you can arrange a domestic flight to one of the nearby airstrips such as Seronera Airstrip in the Serengeti or Manyara Airstrip, which is about 2 hours from the crater by road. Several airlines, such as Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, and Safari Air Link, provide scheduled flights to these airstrips. From the airstrip, you can take a short transfer to Ngorongoro Crater.
Alternatively, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is about 3-4 hours by road from Ngorongoro and offers international flights. From there, you can either arrange a flight to a nearby airstrip or travel by road to the crater.
By Road
The most common way to reach Ngorongoro Crater is by road. If you’re coming from Arusha, it takes around 3 to 4 hours to drive the 180 km to Ngorongoro. The journey is scenic, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with its beautiful landscapes. You can take a private vehicle, arrange a transfer with a safari operator, or join a tour. The road is generally good, but a 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season when conditions can be slippery.
For those traveling from Serengeti, it takes about 2 to 3 hours by road, depending on the route taken. The drive can be combined with a visit to the Serengeti, making it convenient for those doing a safari circuit.
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When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater is during the dry season, from June to October. This period offers the best wildlife viewing conditions, as animals tend to gather around the waterholes, making it easier to spot them. The weather is also more pleasant for game drives, with less rain and clearer skies.
The wet season (from November to May) can still be a great time to visit, particularly for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive. However, the wet weather may make roads slippery and difficult, and the landscape is more lush, which can sometimes make wildlife spotting more challenging. The park tends to be quieter during the wet season, providing a more peaceful experience.
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Experience Unforgettable Beauty of Africa
Ngorongoro Crater is located in northern Tanzania, within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, about 180 km from Arusha. It is part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem.
The crater was formed about 2-3 million years ago after a massive volcanic eruption caused the collapse of a giant volcano. The caldera left behind a basin that is now a vibrant wildlife habitat.
The crater is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses), as well as zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, hippos, hyenas, and over 500 bird species.
The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October), when animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The wet season (November to May) is great for birdwatching but can be less ideal for game drives due to rain and muddy roads.
You can reach Ngorongoro Crater by road from Arusha (3-4 hours), Serengeti (2-3 hours), or Manyara (about 2 hours). There are also flights to nearby airstrips such as Manyara Airstrip or Seronera Airstrip, followed by a road transfer to the crater.
Yes, Ngorongoro Crater is accessible year-round, though the dry season offers the best conditions for game viewing. The wet season brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, which some visitors prefer.
Yes, game drives in Ngorongoro Crater are usually conducted with a licensed guide who can provide expert knowledge about the wildlife and the park’s ecosystems. Guides are required for safety and to enhance the experience.
While Ngorongoro Crater can be busy, especially during peak tourist seasons (June to October), it’s still relatively less crowded than other iconic parks like Serengeti. Its compact size means that wildlife can be seen at close proximity.
Entry fees vary depending on whether you are visiting the Ngorongoro Crater or the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Fees are typically paid at the gate and can vary for foreign visitors, residents, and children. It’s advisable to check current rates in advance.
There are no accommodations inside the crater itself, but visitors can stay on the Ngorongoro Crater Rim in nearby lodges and camps, which offer stunning views of the crater floor. Some popular lodges include Ngorongoro Crater Lodge and Lemala Ngorongoro Camp.
Yes, the area surrounding Ngorongoro Crater is inhabited by the Maasai people, and visitors can visit Maasai villages to learn about their culture, lifestyle, and traditions. This offers a unique cultural experience alongside the natural beauty of the crater.
Serengeti National Park
ArushaNational Park
Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park
Ngorongoro Conservation Area