Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Tanzania. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area extends over 8,292km2 to the Southern of Serengeti National Park. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, spectacular wildlife, and important archaeological and paleontological remains. During a trip to Ngorongoro, Tanzania guests can witness:
Ancient Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro crater is the world’s largest intact and unfilled volcanic caldera measuring 18km in diameter and 600m tall. Formed approximately 2.5 million years ago, the crater has become a dense grassland where more than 25,000 animals call home.
Offering sanctuary to lions, hyenas, buffalo, leopards, elephants, cheetahs and rhinos, the Ngorongoro crater is the best place to witness the Big 5 (and more!) in one game drive. Plus, with more than 500 bird species recorded in the area, the Ngorongoro crater is a nature lover’s paradise.
The Cradle of Mankind
As you venture into the depths of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, prepare to step back in time and unravel the mysteries of human existence. Nestled within this pristine wilderness lies Olduvai Gorge, a place of immense historical significance often referred to as the “Cradle of Mankind.”This sacred site has yielded extraordinary discoveries, including the remains of early hominids and ancient tools dating back millions of years.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of human history as you allow the stories etched in the layers of earth to transport you to a bygone era. With each step, you traverse the very grounds where pivotal moments in human evolution unfolded.
Shifting Sand Dunes
Two crescent-shaped dunes sit near the Olduvai Gorge on the road to the Serengeti. Both dunes consist of magnetized volcanic ash which travels through the desert at an average of 55ft per year, creating a spellbinding enigmatic phenomenon that defies all logic.
Beyond their sheer beauty, the Shifting Sands offer an opportunity for introspection and contemplation on a once-in-a-lifetime African safari tour. Their ever-changing nature serves as a poignant reminder of life’s transient nature, urging us to embrace the present moment and savour the wonders that surround us.
Allow the shifting sands to inspire you, encouraging a deeper connection with the natural world and a renewed appreciation for its boundless mysteries.
The Great Migration
The Ndutu region is located in the Northern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It plays a significant role in the annual migratory route of countless wildebeest, zebras, antelopes, and their accompanying predators. This natural phenomenon unfolds each year between December and March, contingent upon the seasonal rains.
During this period, the Ndutu region transforms into a haven for wildlife as the vast herds of herbivores arrive in search of lush grazing lands and a safe environment for calving. The Ndutu area, with its open plains and abundant vegetation, offers the ideal conditions for these animals to give birth to their young.
The drama of predator-prey interactions and the sight of newborn animals taking their first steps are among the unforgettable experiences awaiting those who venture into this pristine wilderness.
Olmoti and Empakai crater
Both Olmoti and Empakai Craters provide a contrast to the Ngorongoro Crater, with their unique features, scenic beauty, and opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. These craters are much less visited than Ngorongoro Crater.
A visit to these craters as part of a Tanzania safari allows travelers to explore the diverse landscapes and ecosystems within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.