The Ngorongoro Conservation Area boasts the finest blend of landscapes, wildlife, people and archaeological sites in Africa. Often called an ‘African Eden’ and the ‘eighth wonder of the natural world’, it is also a pioneering experiment in multiple land use. For Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the idea of multiple land use means to allow humans and wildlife to coexist in a natural setting. Traditional African pastoralists co-operate with Tanzania’s government bodies to help preserve the natural resources of the area and to ensure a fantastic experience for tourists.
The first view of the Ngorongoro Crater takes the breath away. Ngorongoro is a huge caldera (collapsed volcano), 250 sq km in size and 600 m deep. The crater alone has over 20,000 large animals including some of Tanzania’s last remaining black rhino. The rhino emerge from the forests in the mists of early morning, and their prehistoric figures make a striking impression, surrounded by the ancient crater walls. No fences or boundaries border the crater walls; animals are free to enter or leave the crater, but many of them stay for the plentiful water and grazing available on the crater floor throughout the year.
Open grassland covers most of the crater floor, turning yellow with wild flowers in June. The Makat soda lake is a great attraction for flamingos and other water birds, while predators hide in the marsh to ambush animals that come to drink from the river that feeds the lake. Also on the crater floor are swamps, providing water and habitat for elephant and hippo as well as numerous smaller creatures such as frogs, snakes and serval cats. Game viewing around Lake Makat is especially rewarding – large antelope like zebra and gazelle come to drink, while herds of hippos sun themselves in the thick lakeshore mud.
The Lerai Forest on the crater floor gets its name from the Maasai word for the elegant yellow-barked acacia tree. Elephants often graze in the forest shade during midday, emerging into the open plains during the early hours of morning and in the evening, as the midday heat abates. The small forest patches on the crater floor are home to leopard, monkey, baboon and antelope such as waterbuck and bushbuck.
Humans and their distant ancestors have been part of Ngorongoro’s landscape for millions of years. The earliest signs of mankind in the Conservation Area are at Laetoli, where hominid footprints are preserved in volcanic rock 3.6 million years old. The story continues at Olduvai Gorge, a river canyon cut 100 m deep through the volcanic soil of the Serengeti Plains. Buried in the layers are the remains of animals and hominids that lived and died around a shallow lake amid grassy plains and woodlands. These remains date from two million years ago. Visitors can learn more details of this fascinating story by visiting the site, where guides give a fascinating on-site interpretation of the gorge.
The most numerous and recent inhabitants of the Ngorongoro Area are the Maasai, who arrived about 200 years ago. Their strong insistence on traditional custom and costume interests many visitors. As of today, there are approximately 42,000 Maasai pastoralists living in Ngorongoro with their cattle, goats and sheep. Their presence is the main difference between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Tanzania’s national parks, which do not allow human habitation. Cultural ‘bomas’, or Maasai villages, give visitors the chance to meet Maasai people on their own terms and learn more about this complex and interesting culture.
Discover Ngorongoro National Park
Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Tanzania’s most iconic natural wonders. This vast volcanic caldera is teeming with wildlife and offers breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an unforgettable safari experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling to Ngorongoro Crater, including how to get there, when to visit, where to stay, and what to see and do.
GETTING THERE:
By Air:
The closest international airport to Ngorongoro Crater is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located near Arusha. From there, you can arrange a domestic flight to Lake Manyara Airstrip or Arusha Airport, followed by a road transfer to the crater.
By Road:
Ngorongoro Crater is accessible by road from various cities and towns in Tanzania, including Arusha, Moshi, and Karatu. The journey typically takes several hours, depending on road conditions and the starting point of your trip.
More about getting to Ngorongoro.
Getting to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, involves traveling to Tanzania and then making your way to the designated entrance points of the conservation area. Here’s a guide on how to get to Ngorongoro:
By Air:
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): The closest international airport to Ngorongoro Conservation Area is Kilimanjaro International Airport, located near Arusha. From the airport, you can arrange domestic flights to Arusha Airport or Lake Manyara Airstrip, which are the closest airstrips to Ngorongoro.
Arusha Airport:
If you are flying domestically within Tanzania, Arusha Airport serves as a hub for flights to and from various destinations, including Ngorongoro.
By Road:
From Arusha:
Many visitors travel to Ngorongoro Conservation Area from the nearby city of Arusha. The journey by road takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. You can hire a private vehicle, join a guided safari tour, or use public transportation to reach the conservation area.
From other Tanzanian cities:
If you are traveling from other cities such as Dar es Salaam or Moshi, you can take a domestic flight to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport and then continue by road to Ngorongoro.
Self-Drive:
For those on self drive in Tanzania, Ngorongoro Conservation Area is accessible by road. The conservation area has designated entrance gates, including the main entrance at Loduare Gate and other gates such as Seneto Gate and Ndutu Gate, depending on your planned route.
Guided Tours:
Many visitors opt to join guided safari tours or packages that include transportation, accommodation, meals, and guided activities within Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Guided tours can provide convenience, local expertise, and opportunities for wildlife sightings and cultural experiences.
Public Transportation:
Public buses and mini busses (dala-dalas) operate between major cities and towns in Tanzania, including Arusha and Karatu, which is near the entrance to Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Keep in mind that public transportation may be less comfortable and less flexible compared to private transportation options.
Park Fees and Permits:
Upon arrival at the entrance gate of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, visitors are required to pay park entrance fees and obtain receipts for access.
Park fees vary depending on nationality, duration of stay, and type of vehicle. Fees are payable in USD and should be paid at the entrance gate.
By following these transportation options, you can reach Ngorongoro Conservation Area and embark on an unforgettable safari experience in one of Tanzania’s most renowned wildlife destinations. Be sure to plan your transportation and accommodations in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Park Fees:
Visitors to Ngorongoro Crater are required to pay park entrance fees, which vary depending on nationality and the duration of your stay. Fees are payable in USD and can be paid at the entrance gate.
Permits:
It’s advisable to obtain permits in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (June to September), to avoid delays at the entrance gate.
BEST TIME TO VISIT:
Wildlife Viewing:
The dry season (June to October) is considered the best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
Birdwatching:
Birdwatching is excellent year-round in Ngorongoro Crater, with migratory birds arriving during the wet season (November to May).
Accommodation Options:
Lodges:
There are several lodges located on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater offering stunning views and luxury accommodations. These lodges often include guided game drives and other safari activities in their packages.
Tented Camps:
Tented camps provide a more authentic bush experience and are typically situated in secluded areas within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. They offer comfortable tented accommodations with amenities such as hot showers and dining facilities.
Campsites:
For budget-conscious travelers, there are public campsites available within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. These campsites offer basic facilities, including toilets and showers, and provide a more affordable option for camping enthusiasts.
MORE ABOUT THE ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN NGORONGORO
Ngorongoro Conservation Area, including the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, is home to a variety of lodges and camps offering accommodation options ranging from luxurious to more budget-friendly. Here are some recommended lodges in Ngorongoro:
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge:
Location:
Perched on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering panoramic views of the crater floor below.
Accommodation:
Elegant rooms and suites designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, featuring modern amenities and traditional African decor.
Facilities:
Restaurant serving international and local cuisine, bar, swimming pool, gift shop, and guided game drives.
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge:
Location:
Situated on the eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering stunning views of the crater and its wildlife.
Accommodation:
Spacious rooms and suites with private balconies or verandas, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of safari adventures.
Facilities:
Restaurant serving buffet-style meals, bar, outdoor swimming pool, spa, and guided game drives.
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge:
Location:
Located on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering luxurious accommodations in a breathtaking setting.
Accommodation:
Lavishly decorated suites with private butler service, fireplaces, and panoramic views of the crater below.
Facilities:
Fine dining restaurant, wine cellar, bar, library, spa, and guided game drives. The Highlands Ngorongoro:
Location:
Nestled in the Ngorongoro Highlands, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and easy access to the crater.
Accommodation:
Dome-shaped luxury tents with en-suite bathrooms, wood-burning stoves, and private decks overlooking the highlands.
Facilities:
Dining tent serving gourmet cuisine, bar, outdoor fire pit, guided walks, and cultural experiences with the local Maasai community.
Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp:
Location:
Located near the Ngorongoro Crater rim, offering a secluded wilderness experience with easy access to the crater floor.
Accommodation:
Spacious canvas tents with en-suite bathrooms, comfortable furnishings, and private verandas overlooking the surrounding bush.
Facilities:
Dining tent serving delicious meals, lounge area, campfire, and guided game drives.
Rhino Lodge:
Location:
Situated on the Ngorongoro Crater rim, offering panoramic views and close proximity to the crater entrance.
Accommodation:
Comfortable rooms and cottages with en-suite bathrooms and cozy furnishings, providing a relaxed atmosphere.
Facilities:
Restaurant serving buffet-style meals, bar, gift shop, and guided walks along the crater rim.
These lodges in Ngorongoro offer a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets, ensuring a memorable safari experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred lodge and make the most of your safari adventure in Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Things to See and Do:
Game Drives:
Explore the crater floor on a guided game drive and encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos.
Cultural Visits:
Learn about the traditional Maasai way of life by visiting a Maasai village near the crater and interacting with local community members.
Walking Safaris:
Embark on a guided walking safari along the crater rim and enjoy panoramic views of the crater floor below while spotting wildlife and birdlife.
More about the things to do in Ngorongoro.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area, including the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top activities you can experience during your visit:
Game Drives:
Game drives are the primary activity in Ngorongoro Crater, offering visitors the chance to explore the diverse habitats and encounter a wide variety of wildlife.
Join a guided game drive led by experienced rangers who are knowledgeable about the area’s flora and fauna, increasing your chances of spotting animals such as lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and the rare black rhinoceros.
Crater Rim Walks:
Embark on a guided walking safari along the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater for breathtaking panoramic views of the crater floor below.
Enjoy the tranquility of the highlands and spot wildlife from a different perspective while learning about the geological history and conservation efforts of the area.
Cultural Visits:
Learn about the traditional Maasai way of life by visiting a Maasai village near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Experience Maasai culture firsthand through interactions with local community members, witnessing traditional dances, and participating in activities such as beadwork and spear throwing.
Bird Watching:
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to over 500 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Explore the diverse habitats within the crater and surrounding highlands to spot a variety of bird species, including flamingos, ostriches, eagles, vultures, and storks.
Picnicking:
Take advantage of designated picnic sites within the Ngorongoro Crater for a relaxing break amidst the wilderness.
Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the scenic views and observing wildlife from a safe distance.
Conservation and Research Centers:
Visit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area headquarters and visitor center to learn about the conservation efforts and management strategies implemented in the area.
Explore educational exhibits, interactive displays, and information panels detailing the biodiversity and cultural heritage of Ngorongoro.
Photography:
Capture stunning wildlife sightings, breathtaking landscapes, and dramatic sunsets during your visit to Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Bring your camera or smartphone to document your safari experience and create lasting memories of this unique destination.
Whether you are interested in wildlife viewing, cultural encounters, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the area, Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers a wide range of activities to suit every traveler’s interests. Be sure to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your visit and maximize your safari experience in this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site.
BEST TIME TO VISIT NGORONGORO
The best time to visit Ngorongoro Conservation Area, including the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, depends on your interests and what you hope to experience during your safari. Here are some factors to consider when planning your visit:
Wildlife Viewing:
The dry season, from June to October, is considered the best time for wildlife viewing in Ngorongoro Crater. During this period, vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot.
June to October also coincides with the Great Wildebeest Migration in neighboring Serengeti National Park, with large herds of wildebeest and other animals moving through the area, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Bird Watching:
Birdwatching in Ngorongoro Conservation Area is excellent year-round, but it is particularly rewarding during the wet season, from November to May.
Migratory birds arrive in the area during the wet season, adding to the diversity of bird species that can be spotted around the crater and its surrounding highlands.
Weather and Climate:
Ngorongoro Conservation Area experiences a dry season (June to October) and a wet season (November to May).
The dry season typically offers clear skies, cooler temperatures, and lower humidity levels, making it a comfortable time for safari activities.
The wet season brings occasional rainfall, which can result in lush vegetation and beautiful landscapes, but it may also make wildlife viewing more challenging due to thicker vegetation and muddy roads.
Crowds and Accommodation:
The dry season, particularly the months of July to September, is the peak tourist season in Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
During this time, accommodation options may book up quickly, and popular tourist areas, such as the Ngorongoro Crater, may experience higher visitor numbers.
If you prefer to avoid crowds and have a more exclusive safari experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April to June and November) when visitor numbers are lower, and accommodation rates may be more affordable.
Special Events and Festivals:
Keep in mind any special events or festivals that may be taking place in the area during your planned visit, as they can add cultural richness to your safari experience.
For example, the Maasai people, who inhabit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, celebrate cultural events and ceremonies throughout the year, providing opportunities for cultural interactions and learning.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Ngorongoro depends on your preferences for weather, wildlife viewing, and crowd levels. No matter when you choose to visit, Ngorongoro Conservation Area promises unforgettable safari experiences and breathtaking landscapes that will leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion:
Traveling to Ngorongoro Crater is an enriching experience that offers the opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife in a stunning natural setting. By following this guide and planning your trip carefully, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on an unforgettable safari adventure in one of Tanzania’s most captivating destinations. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the wonders of Ngorongoro Crater! Safe travels!