: Tours and Excursion

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in northern Tanzania. It is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera. The area is renowned for its high density of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo).

History & Origins

The Ngorongoro Crater was formed about 2 to 3 million years ago when a large volcano exploded and collapsed on itself. The area has been inhabited by the Maasai people for centuries, who continue to live here alongside the wildlife.

The conservation area was established in 1959 as a multiple land-use area, where wildlife coexists with semi-nomadic Maasai pastoralists practicing traditional livestock grazing.

Architecture & Features

The Ngorongoro Crater spans approximately 260 square kilometers and is 610 meters deep. The crater floor is a natural enclosure for a wide variety of wildlife, including large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.

The area also features the Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world, where early human fossils have been discovered.

Legends & Facts

1. The Maasai believe that the crater is a sacred place and refer to it as the 'Garden of Eden'.

2. The Olduvai Gorge has yielded some of the earliest evidence of human evolution, including the remains of Homo habilis.

3. The crater's unique ecosystem supports a high density of predators, including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

Tourist Tips

Visit the crater early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The rim of the crater offers stunning panoramic views, and the Lerai Forest is a great spot to see elephants.

Nearby

• Serengeti National Park - Famous for the annual wildebeest migration.
• Lake Manyara National Park - Known for its tree-climbing lions.
• Tarangire National Park - Renowned for its large elephant herds.
• Mount Kilimanjaro - Africa's highest peak.
• Arusha National Park - Features diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Practical FAQ for Travelers

What is the best time to visit?

The dry season (June to October) is the best time for wildlife viewing.

Are there any dress code requirements?

Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment.

Is the area accessible for children?

Yes, but children should be supervised at all times due to the presence of wild animals.

Can I bring my pet?

No, pets are not allowed in the conservation area.

What are the opening hours?

The area is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.