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Ngorongoro – Vast Volcanic Crater, Diverse Wildlife, Enriching Maasai Culture

Explore wildlife, culture, and history in stunning Ngorongoro

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area centred around the massive Ngorongoro Crater—the largest intact volcanic caldera in the world—is a place of natural wonder. Originally taller than Mount Kilimanjaro, this area combines wildlife with the traditional lifestyles of the semi-nomadic Maasai tribes.

Ngorongoro Safaris take you to this diverse region, part of Tanzania’s famous northern circuit adjacent to the Serengeti National Park. Known for one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, it provides exceptional game viewing opportunities. The area features a mix of lush vegetation, highland forests, and open savannas, providing homes for over 25,000 large animals.

Here, you can see many predators including lions, hyenas, and leopards, alongside vast herds of zebras, buffaloes, and elephants. The crater is also a hotspot for bird enthusiasts, with species like flamingos and ostriches frequently seen.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area also includes the Olduvai Gorge, known as the "Cradle of Humankind," where some of the earliest evidence of humans was found.

In addition to experiencing the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, visitors on Tanzania Safari Tours can meet the Maasai people and learn about their enduring culture and traditions, adding a rich cultural layer to the safari experience.

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Highlights

  • Crater Wonder: A vast, intact volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife.
  • Big Five Spotting: Chance to see lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, & buffalo.
  • Scenic Views: Breathtaking panoramic views from the crater rim.
  • Diverse Habitats: Rich variety of ecosystems, from lush grasslands to swamps.
  • Cultural Heritage: Home to the Maasai people and their traditional way of life.

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How To Go To Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro is effortlessly accessed from Serengeti or via scenic drive from Arusha

Travelling to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is convenient, especially when included as part of a Northern circuit safari. Ngorongoro is strategically located en route to the Serengeti National Park, making it easily accessible from Arusha, the common starting point for northern Tanzania safaris.

  • Drive from Arusha: A direct 180km/112 mi journey on paved roads, typically taking about three hours.
  • Air Travel Options: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), approximately 50km/31 mi from Arusha. Alternatively, flights into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam can connect to Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro.
  • Via Safari Vehicle: Travel the entire circuit or select segments by road, perhaps starting in Serengeti and circling back through Ngorongoro.
  • From Seronera, Serengeti: The drive covers 140km/90 mi, usually taking about three hours, often extended by stops for wildlife observation.
  • From Lake Manyara: This route spans 80km/50 mi, with an estimated travel time of two hours.
  • From Tarangire National Park: A four-hour drive over 180km/110 mi.

We will typically manage all transportation details, from airport pickups to arranging your Ngorongoro Safaris. Whether by air or by land, your journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area promises scenic views and exciting possibilities, ensuring a memorable safari experience.

All About Ngorongoro Conservation Area

A detailed guide on timings, attractions, and activities follows

Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Viewing wildlife in the Ngorongoro Crater is always exceptional. During the Dry season, from June to October, the shorter grass makes it easier to see animals, making this period ideal for Ngorongoro Safaris.

Conversely, the landscape transforms into a lush and vibrant scene in the Wet season, from November to May, offering a different kind of beauty.

  • Optimal Viewing - June to October, when wildlife visibility is at its peak.
  • Busiest Months - From July to March, the crater experiences higher visitor numbers.
  • Quieter Times - April and May see fewer tourists, providing a more secluded experience.
  • Most Favorable Weather - June to October, with minimal rainfall.
  • Challenging Weather - March and April, when the area receives the most rain.

When planning your Best Time to Visit Tanzania, especially for a safari in Ngorongoro, consider these periods for the best wildlife experience and weather conditions. It doesn’t matter if you are here for the animals or the awe-inspiring views, Ngorongoro offers a memorable journey any time of the year.

What to See Ngorongoro Conservation Area

What to See

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. At the heart of this area lies the Ngorongoro Crater, a vast volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife such as elephants, rhinos, lions, and buffalo.

This unique ecosystem also hosts an impressive array of bird species which you can see on Ngorongoro Safaris. The list of birds includes flamingos and Grey Crowned Cranes, making it a bird watcher's paradise.

For those interested in history and archaeology, the Oldupai Gorge within the conservation area offers a fascinating glimpse into human prehistory, often referred to as the "Cradle of Humankind."

The nearby Gol Mountains not only provide spectacular views but also offer insights into the cultural traditions of the Maasai people, who live in close communion with the natural environment.

These Ngorongoro Attractions showcase the area's rich natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a highlight for anyone visiting Tanzania.

Activities To Do In Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a spectacular place filled with unique activities that make every visit memorable. Surrounded by the towering walls of the Ngorongoro Crater, this area offers incredible Ngorongoro Wildlife Safaris and cultural experiences. Here’s a list of Fun Things to Do at Ngorongoro Conservation Area that are perfect for all ages:

  • Meet the Bushmen and discover their traditional lifestyle of the Bushmen near Lake Eyasi.
  • Take a guided walk on the foot and see different animals and beautiful birds.
  • Listen to African Drummers and enjoy the sounds of traditional African drumming.
  • Hike around Empakaai Crater and walk through lush forests and spot unique birds.
  • Go on a Game Drive to see lions, elephants, and more in their natural setting.
  • Stroll by Lake Eyasi and learn about the local culture and enjoy stunning views.
  • Tour Olduvai Gorge and visit the famous archaeological site where early human fossils were found.

These Things to Do in Ngorongoro Conservation gives a mix of adventure, wildlife watching, and cultural learning, making your safari trip rich and exciting. Join us on a Ngorongoro Wildlife Safari and explore all the amazing things this area has to offer.

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Animal In Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area features diverse wildlife within its stunning volcanic caldera, including the Big Five and a variety of other species like cheetahs and hippos. Experience rich ecosystems ranging from grassy plains to dense forests. Book your safari now to witness Ngorongoro’s extraordinary wildlife in their natural habitat!
Giraffe

Common

Hippo

Rare

Elephant

Common

Cheeta

Rare

Buffalo

Common

Zebra

Common

Black Rhino

Rare

Hyena

Common

Lion

Rare

Leopard

Common

What Is The Best Month To Visit Tanzania

Know more about the Perfect Season for Your Tanzanian Safari Magic!

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

65MM

January is a lush and vibrant time in the Serengeti, marking the peak of the calving season. The southern plains come alive with newborn wildebeests and zebras, offering a spectacular wildlife experience. The weather is warm with occasional showers, creating a green and flourishing landscape. This period is ideal for observing young animals and their interactions with predators, all while enjoying a relatively quiet park with fewer tourists.

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

65MM

February continues the calving season with a high concentration of newborns across the southern Serengeti. The lush vegetation supports large herds of wildebeest and zebra, and predator activity remains high, making it an exciting time for wildlife viewing. The weather remains warm with occasional rains, and the park is still less crowded, providing excellent opportunities for intimate wildlife experiences.

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

145MM

By March, the calving season begins to wind down, and the herds start moving northward. The landscape remains green and vibrant due to ongoing rains, but the vegetation starts to thicken, which can make wildlife spotting more challenging. However, the park’s reduced number of visitors means a more serene safari experience, and the start of the migration northward offers exciting prospects for observing the moving herds.

Avg Temperature

21°C

Avg Rainfall

340MM

April is characterized by heavy rains, making it one of the wettest months in the Serengeti. The landscape transforms into a lush paradise, but the roads can become muddy and challenging to navigate. Wildlife viewing can be more difficult due to dense vegetation and wet conditions, but the park’s reduced tourist numbers offer a quieter experience and a unique opportunity to see the park in its most verdant state.

Avg Temperature

20°C

Avg Rainfall

170MM

May continues with the long rains, maintaining the park’s lush, green appearance. The increased vegetation can obscure wildlife, making sightings more difficult. However, this is a less crowded time, providing a peaceful safari experience. As the migration herds start moving north, there are opportunities to witness the beginnings of the migration, offering a quieter but still engaging wildlife experience.

Avg Temperature

19°C

Avg Rainfall

40MM

June marks the beginning of the dry season, with warm, pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. The landscape starts to dry out, and wildlife concentrations increase around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The Great Migration typically begins its journey northward, and the park’s clearer conditions provide excellent opportunities for viewing river crossings and large gatherings of wildlife.

Avg Temperature

18°C

Avg Rainfall

20MM

July is one of the prime months to visit the Serengeti, as the dry season is in full swing. The Great Migration reaches the northern Serengeti, where dramatic river crossings occur. The dry conditions ensure clear visibility and easier access to wildlife, though it is also the height of the tourist season. The warm weather and high concentrations of wildlife make for an unforgettable safari experience.

Avg Temperature

19°C

Avg Rainfall

15MM

August continues with excellent conditions for wildlife viewing as the Great Migration remains in the northern Serengeti. The dry, warm weather makes for clear skies and easy access to the park’s various wildlife hotspots. This is an ideal time for witnessing the spectacular river crossings and observing large predator populations, though it can be quite busy with tourists.

Avg Temperature

20°C

Avg Rainfall

15MM

In September, the dry season persists, providing excellent conditions for game viewing. The Great Migration herds are still moving south, and wildlife remains concentrated around water sources. The dry weather and open landscapes make it easier to spot animals, and the crowds start to thin out slightly, offering a more relaxed safari experience compared to peak months.

Avg Temperature

21°C

Avg Rainfall

40MM

October marks the transition from the dry season to the short rains. The Great Migration herds continue their southward movement, and wildlife is concentrated around remaining waterholes. The landscape begins to show signs of green as the rains approach, and the park sees fewer tourists, making for a more tranquil and enjoyable safari experience.

Avg Temperature

22°C

Avg Rainfall

125MM

November brings the start of the short rains, with occasional showers and a rapidly greening landscape. The migration herds continue moving south, and the park’s transformation into a lush environment offers beautiful scenery. The reduced number of visitors and vibrant landscape provide a serene and picturesque safari experience.

Avg Temperature

21°C

Avg Rainfall

65MM

December features ongoing short rains, which further enhance the park’s lush and green appearance. The calving season begins in the southern Serengeti, with herds returning and newborn animals becoming more common. The warm weather and vibrant environment, combined with fewer tourists, create an ideal setting for observing new life and enjoying a peaceful safari.

Fred Namwandu

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Ngorongoro Conservation

Get Your Ngorongoro Conservation Area Queries Clarified

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is in northern Tanzania, about 180 kilometres (112 miles) west of Arusha. It lies within the Greater Serengeti ecosystem and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The area is best known for the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. The crater is a haven for wildlife and is often referred to as “Africa’s Garden of Eden” due to its abundance of animals in a relatively small area.

The crater is home to the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos. It also hosts zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, and over 500 bird species. The resident black rhino population is one of the key highlights.

Activities include game drives within the crater, birdwatching, and visits to Maasai villages. You can also explore the Olduvai Gorge, a significant archaeological site that provides insight into early human evolution.

A 1-2 day visit is typically enough to explore the crater and nearby attractions. However, extending your stay allows for a more immersive experience and opportunities to visit other parts of the conservation area.

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