Northern Circuit
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Overview
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a huge, unspoiled protected area that is home to the world’s densest wildlife populations, stunning scenery, mountains, the evolution of humans, and much more. One has to visit to see and believe it. The jewel in Ngorongoro’s crown is a deep, volcanic crater, the largest un flooded and unbroken caldera in the world.
About 20kms across, 600 meters deep and 300 sq kms in area, the Ngorongoro Crater is a breathtaking natural wonder. The caldera shelters over 25,000 big mammals and it is the only place in the world where one can spot all the Big 5 mammals of Africa.
Wildlife Highlights
Facts About Ngorongoro
- It is the only place in the universe where wildlife coexists in harmony with human beings.
- Ngorongoro Highlands
- Olmoti Crater and Empakaai Crater
- Olduvai Gorge, the earliest place of human existence on earth
- Museum Laetoli Footprint, has oldest known footprints of early humans.
Activities and Excursions
- Photographic Safaris
- Visiting the Maasai Bomas
- Walking Safari
- Birdwatching
- Hiking Safaris
Ngorongoro Crater: Maasai village trips
Part of the reason behind the Ngorongoro Conservation Area has been to preserve the environment for the Maasai people who were diverted from the Serengeti Plains. Essentially nomadic people, they build temporary villages in circular homesteads called bomas. There are possibilities to visit a couple of these now, which have been opened up for tourists to explore.
Here you can see how the huts are built in a strict pattern of order according to the chronological order of the wives, and experience what it must be like to rely on warmth and energy from a fire burning at the heart of a cattle dung dwelling with no chimney. These proud cattle herding people have a great history as warriors, and even though they are no longer allowed to build villages inside, they continue to herd their cattle into the crater to graze and drink, regardless of the predators nearby.
What is the travel time to Ngorongoro?
- Arusha to Ngorongoro Conservation Area (154.6 Km): 3 hours
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Serengeti National Park (81 Km): 2 hours’ drive.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Lake Manyara (40.5 Km): 1 hour drive.
- Ngorongoro to Tarangire (109.3 Km): 2 hours’ drive
When is the best time to Visit Ngorongoro?
The best time to visit Ngorongoro is during dry season June to October because roads are accessible and one has better chance to spot the animals.
How long should I stay in Ngorongoro?
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the main reasons many people visit Tanzania. 1 day at the crater floor and an extra day if you want to explore the area around the crater.
