Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the breathtaking crater highlands of Tanzania. Ngorongoro is situated 180km west of Arusha. Ngorongoro gets its name from the captivating crater located in the region. Ngorongoro, founded in 1959, spans an impressive 8,292 square kilometres. Ngorongoro is a fascinating part of the Serengeti ecosystem, neighboring Serengeti National Park to the northwest, with the expansive Serengeti plains stretching out to the south. The eastern edges of the Ngorongoro are marked by the majestic rim of the East African Rift Valley wall.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro is a vast protected area in Tanzania that draws a significant number of visitors each year. The wildlife, stunning landscapes, vibrant birdlife, and diverse calderas all beckon adventurers to discover this remarkable destination shaped by nature. The Ngorongoro crater is the main draw for visitors to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Exciting sites in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area boasts a variety of attractions that draw countless travellers each year. Here are the exciting attractions in Ngorongoro;

Ngorongoro Crater is a breathtaking destination that promises exhilarating experiences and unforgettable moments.

Ngorongoro Crater stands as the largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera globally, plunging 610 meters deep and spanning approximately 265 square kilometers in a stunning bowl shape. It is renowned for its remarkable concentration of wildlife. Ngorongoro Crater offers explorers breathtaking vistas that inspire a sense of wonder. The Ngorongoro Crater is home to soda lakes such as Lake Magadi, drawing a vibrant array of bird species, including flamingos and various waterfowl. Picnics can be enjoyed here, offering a breathtaking view to behold.

Vast and intriguing formations

In addition to the main Ngorongoro crater, there are other captivating craters in the area that entice travelers to explore their wonders. Olmoti caldera and Empakai caldera are captivating volcanic craters that draw tourists to Ngorongoro. The former is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, while the latter is celebrated for its deep lake surrounded by lush, green walls.

Olduvai Gorge

The Olduvai Gorge stands as a remarkable archaeological site in East Africa, renowned for the discovery of the first skull of Zinjathropus. This fascinating part of the Olduvai Gorge attracts numerous explorers heading to Ngorongoro to witness the ancient skull and uncover the story of human evolution.

Wandering dunes

Shifting sand is an intriguing phenomenon where sand dunes move from one location to another, all while preserving their distinctive form. The ever-changing sands are thought to have originated from the dynamic volcanic peak of Oldonyo Lengai, where the dunes shift approximately 10 meters to new locations over the course of a year.

Nature’s wonders

The wildlife in Ngorongoro is incredibly diverse, showcasing a remarkable array of species that roam the landscape. Here, you can encounter wildebeests, zebras, wild dogs, cheetahs, reedbucks, gazelles, spotted hyenas, hippos, elands, blue monkeys, and many more. Many travelers flock to Ngorongoro Conservation Area for the thrill of observing wildlife.

Majestic quintet

In Ngorongoro, one of Tanzania’s remarkable national parks, visitors have the thrilling opportunity to encounter the big five all in one stunning location. The magnificent five consist of lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos. The black rhinos in Ngorongoro Conservation Area stand out, drawing the attention of many tourists eager to spot them during game drives. Ngorongoro Crater boasts an incredible concentration of lions. The Ndutu Lake area in the west of the conservation zone is alive with the presence of cheetahs and lions, alongside hartebeests and jackals. Serval cats can be spotted throughout Ngorongoro, adding to the excitement of the landscape.

Avian wonders in Ngorongoro

In Ngorongoro, a diverse array of bird species awaits discovery for those eager to embark on a bird watching adventure. Among the bird species are yellow wagtails, saddle-billed storks, ostriches, Kori bustards, lesser flamingos, and many more.

Excursions in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Tourists on a Tanzania safari can engage in a variety of thrilling activities in Ngorongoro. They feature exhilarating game drives, immersive walking safaris, captivating bird watching, explorations of Oldupai Museum, enriching cultural visits, and delightful picnicking experiences.

Ideal time to explore Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area welcomes visitors throughout the year, whether in the rainy season or the dry season. In the dry season from May to October, the opportunity for game viewing is at its peak as animals gather around the water sources. During the wet season from November to April, tourists can still explore the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to experience game viewing, as the lush green grass provides ample grazing for animals, while predators stealthily lurk nearby, ready to pounce on their next meal.

Ways to reach the Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro offers access by both road and air. By road, travelers journey approximately 160km, taking around 2 hours to reach Ngorongoro from Arusha. A four-wheel drive vehicle is essential. Adventurous travelers can reach Ngorongoro by taking a flight from Kilimanjaro International Airport to one of the airstrips in the Ngorongoro region.

In Ngorongoro, visitors can discover a variety of accommodation options, from luxurious retreats to cozy budget-friendly stays, perfect for every adventurer’s taste. All campsites in Ngorongoro, except Simba, are designated as special, requiring tourists to bring all necessary facilities, as they cater to self-sufficient safari enthusiasts. Luxury lodges such as Ngorongoro Crater Lodge and Ngorongoro Forest Tented Lodge offer an exceptional experience for those seeking ultimate comfort and outstanding service.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Crater Region
Planning a Tanzania safari and curious about what to include to ensure you don’t miss out on unforgettable experiences? Ngorongoro Conservation Area is exactly what you’re looking for. Have your preferred tour operator incorporate it into your Tanzania safari tour for a chance to create unforgettable experiences.