The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, situated in northern Tanzania, offers one of the continent's most remarkable safari adventures.
As an integral component of the Serengeti ecosystem, which is a Tanzanian highlight, this UNESCO World Heritage Site spans 829,200 hectares. Its diverse landscape encompasses everything from short-grass plains, where zebras and wildebeests roam in abundance, to serene crater lakes and cloud-enshrouded volcanic summits.
The famous Ngorongoro Crater — one of the new Seven Natural Wonders of Africa and the feature from which the Ngorongoro Conservation Area takes its name — is the world’s largest inactive and empty volcanic caldera, formed 2 to 3 million years ago. Around 25,000 large animals live in the 30,000-hectare crater, including lions, black rhinos and elephants. A stunningly beautiful place, it's often referred to as the ‘Garden of Eden’. Ngorongoro has been the site of numerous archaeological discoveries over the years, and it's now one of the best places for safari in East Africa.
Spend a day on safari in the crater, pausing for a special lunch in the bush. Visitors can also hike up the Olmoti volcano, trek down to the Empakaai Crater lake (where pink flamingos flock in the shallows) or visit a Ngorongoro village to learn about Maasai culture.
Attractions at Ngorongoro Crater
The caldera is an important landmark for human history, as well as an essential habitat safeguarding animal diversity. Despite its small area, the caldera has excellent bio-diversity, and several globally threatened species live on these plains. These plains form part of the route of the Great Migration.
The caldera is of scientific importance as important discoveries were made here that shed light on the path of human evolution.
Aside from the main caldera, there are two other volcanic craters: the Olmoti and Empakai. The Olmoti is famed for its beautiful waterfalls, and the Empakai is known for its deep lake and lush green walls.
Another amazing site is the Olduvai Gorge, a 14km long ravine. To protect this incredible natural wonder, visitor numbers are closely monitored, and you must obtain a permit to enter the crater and the gorge.
The crater was formed around 2.5 million years ago when a volcano - thought to be roughly the same height as Kilimanjaro - erupted and collapsed in on itself. Now dormant, the volcano’s crater is 610 metres deep and 20km wide, making it the world’s largest inactive caldera
Wildlife at Ngorongoro
The crater basin boasts a variety of fresh water and alkaline lakes, alongside marshes and swamps. These alkaline lakes are a magnet for thousands of flamingos during the wet season.
Hosting approximately 30,000 animals, the crater serves as a seasonal home for some who partake in the Great Migration, while others reside here throughout the year.
During the dry season, the crater's rich, volcanic soil supports a diverse array of wildlife, including warthogs, impalas, and buffaloes. These animals are prey for predators such as lions, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, wild hunting dogs, and golden cats. Honey badgers, jackals, foxes, and ostriches are present all year. The Lake Ndutu area, to the west of the crater, is notable for its significant populations of cheetahs and lions.
The crater also provides a habitat for over 500 bird species, including the Rüppell’s Griffon vulture.
Among the rarest animals to be found here are the black-maned lion and the black rhinoceros. Notably absent are giraffes, presumably due to the crater's steep sides which are difficult for them to navigate.
Hiking at Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater provides a full day's safari experience, but for those extending their stay, several hiking trails ascend the crater's walls.
Trekking routes along the crater's rim offer breathtaking panoramic vistas encompassing the crater area, stretching to the Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. On days when the sky is clear, one might even glimpse Kilimanjaro and Lake Natron in the distance.
For the adventurous, the southern highlands of the crater feature Mount Lemagurut, towering at 3,147 meters. The ascent is challenging, requiring good physical fitness. Hikers typically set out after breakfast for a day-long journey. Upon reaching the peak, climbers are greeted with magnificent views of the Serengeti plains, the vast Ngorongoro Crater, and the shimmering Lake Eyasi.
When is the Best Time to Visit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area?
The optimal period for visiting the Ngorongoro Conservation Area spans from June to February, particularly for those interested in witnessing the Great Migration. The crater's wildlife is present throughout the year, ensuring a rewarding game-viewing experience whenever you choose to visit.
The rainy season peaks in March and April, leading to a quieter period for the crater. While the wet season offers stunningly lush landscapes, it may not be ideal for wildlife spotting. Conversely, the months from July to September mark the high season, aligning with the most favourable conditions for game viewing.
For visitors eager to observe predators, January and February are recommended, as these months offer a break in the rains and coincide with the wildebeest calving season, making of a great time to visit Tanzania.
Some visitors opt for the low season to avoid the crowds of the high season. Despite fewer visitors, the experience remains delightful, especially with the increased flamingo populations at Lake Magadi due to higher water levels. Predators are a constant presence in the basin, ensuring ample hunting opportunities. Travelling during the off-peak months means missing the Great Migration but also experiencing the serenity of the crater, albeit with a chance of rain.
