Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Over View
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a protected area and a World Heritage Site located 180 km (110 mi) west of Arusha in the Crater Highlands area of Tanzania. The area is named after Ngorongoro Crater, a large volcanic caldera within the area.The Ngorongorocrater formed when a large volcano exploded and collapsed two to three million years ago.
The volcanic eruptions like that of Ngorongoro, which resulted in the formation of Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, were very common. Similar collapses occurred in the case of Olmoti and Empakaai, but they were much smaller in magnitude and impact.
Natural wonder Ngorongoro Crater
The famous Ngorongoro Crater is the main feature of this area. Two to three million years ago the large volcano exploded and collapsed on itself. As a result the crater formed which then created a unique ecosystem with a wide variety of vegetation.
Today the crater is home to the highest concentration of wildlife in Africa. It is home to zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, baboons, elephants, flamingos, ostriches and hippos. You can find a high population of predators, including lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs and leopards. And a big attraction of the Ngorongoro Crater are of course the Big Five – buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion, rhino. You can see them all in this 20 kilometres (12,5 miles) wide and 600 metres (2,000 feet) deep crater. Enjoy the variety of animals and beautiful colours of the landscapes. The views from the crater rim over the crater floor are incredible. Because of its natural beauty, the crater is chosen as one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders.
Maasai tribe
During your safari it is also possible to visit the Maasai tribe. They are allowed to let their livestock graze in this area. If you really want to learn more about the lifestyle and rituals of this fascinating tribe, we recommend you to book a Maasai Tour.
You like to incorporate Ngorongoro Crater into your itinerary? Check our Tanzania safaris for inspiration or contact us for a personal advice.
Ngorongoro facts
- Ngorongoro crater floor with its unique habitat and wildlife .
- Ngorongoro Highlands .
- Olmoti Crater and Empakaai Crater
- Tropical rainforest.
- Olduvai George, earliest place of human existence on earth.
- Museum Laetoli Footprint, has oldest known footprints of early humans.
Travel tips from our experts about Ngorongoro Conservation Area
My name is James and I am a guide at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for 16 years.
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the main reasons many people visit Tanzania. It is a spectacular experience and I recommend everyone to spend at least 1 day at the crater floor.
My advice:
How long to stay? 1 day at the crater floor and an extra day if you want to explore the area around the crater.