Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Quick Facts

The name Ngorongoro comes from the Maasai language, meaning 'big hole' - a reference to the sound of cowbells. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the only conservation area in Tanzania that allows human habitation alongside wildlife conservation.

Location

Ngorongoro District, Arusha Region, Northern Tanzania

Annual Visitors

Over 500,000 visitors from around the world each year

UNESCO Status

World Heritage Site since 1979

Famous For

World's largest intact volcanic caldera

Crater vs Conservation Area

Understanding the difference between the Ngorongoro Crater and the broader Ngorongoro Conservation Area helps you appreciate the scale and diversity of this remarkable destination.

Ngorongoro Crater

Size: 260 sq. km floor area, 2,000 meters deep

Formation: Created by volcanic eruption and collapse 2-3 million years ago

Status: World's largest unfilled, inactive, and intact volcanic caldera

Significance: If the volcanic eruption hadn't caused the collapse, it could have been as tall as Mount Kilimanjaro!

Size: 8,292 sq. km total area

Population: Home to about 40,000 people, mostly Maasai communities

Status: Part of the larger Serengeti-Ngorongoro Biosphere Reserve

Uniqueness: Only conservation area in Tanzania allowing human habitation and wildlife conservation together

How to Access Ngorongoro

Despite its remote location, Ngorongoro Conservation Area is easily accessible through multiple transportation options.

By Air - Most Convenient

Charter Flights: Fly directly to the airstrip on the crater rim near headquarters

International Entry: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), then charter or road transfer

Advantages: Quick, scenic aerial views, convenient for luxury safaris

By Road - Scenic Route

From Arusha: 180 km via paved road, approximately 3-4 hours drive

From Serengeti: Via Naabi Hill Gate on good gravel road

Note: Self-drive possible but not recommended; guided tours preferred

Entrance Gates & Fees

Loduare Gate

Location: Southern gate, 30 km from Karatu town

Features: Information center, fee payment, close to hippo pools and Lake Magadi

Most Popular: Due to proximity to Arusha

Naabi Hill Gate

Location: Border with Serengeti National Park

Access: Both NCA and Serengeti from this gate

Administrative: Houses both TANAPA and NCAA offices

Entrance Fees

Age Group	Fee (USD)	Notes
Adults (16+ years)	$50	Per person per day
Children (5-16 years)	$10	Per child per day
Children (Under 5)	Free	No charge

History of Ngorongoro

From ancient volcanic activity to the cradle of humanity, Ngorongoro's history spans millions of years and includes some of the most significant archaeological discoveries on Earth.

Historical Timeline

2.5 Million Years Ago

Volcanic Formation

Major volcanic eruptions created the calderas in the NCA. A massive active volcano erupted so fiercely that it caused an explosion and collapsed on itself, forming what is now the world's largest intact caldera.

3 Million Years Ago

Early Human Presence

Fossil evidence found in Olduvai Gorge shows that hominid species occupied the area for 3 million years, making this truly the cradle of humanity.

Ancient Times

Datooga and Mbulu Communities

The area was home to the Datooga and Mbulu communities for thousands of years before they were driven away by the Maasai people in the 18th century.

1892

First European Contact

The first Europeans set foot inside the rim of the area and started establishing farming grounds. Hunting became prevalent around this time.

1928

Hunting Prohibition

Hunting was prohibited across all areas of Tanzania, marking the beginning of wildlife conservation efforts.

1948-1959

Park Separation

In 1948, Serengeti National Park was created within the premises. However, issues arose for tribal communities. In 1959, Serengeti was separated, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area was created specifically to allow human habitation alongside wildlife conservation.

Climate of Ngorongoro

Ngorongoro experiences a mild, temperate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons that create different safari experiences throughout the year.

Dry Season (June - October)

Temperature: 19°C afternoon on crater floor, very cold nights

Weather: Sunny cloudless skies, minimal rainfall

Advantages

Excellent wildlife viewing
Shorter vegetation
Clear blue skies
Fewer mosquitoes
Low malaria risk

Considerations

Very cold nights and mornings
Can be freezing on crater rim
Dusty conditions
More crowds in peak season

Wet Season (November - May)

Temperature: 23°C afternoon on crater floor, 6°C nights on rim

Rainfall: Short rains (Oct-Nov), long rains (Mar-May)

Advantages

Spectacular green landscapes
Perfect for birdwatching
Migratory birds present
Fewer tourists
Discounted prices
Great photographic opportunities

Considerations

Afternoon rain showers
Some roads challenging
Higher humidity
Denser vegetation

Month-wise Visiting Guide

Each month offers unique experiences in Ngorongoro. Choose your timing based on what you most want to see and experience.

January - February

Calving Season

January: Breeding/mass calving season begins. Nearly 8,000 newborn animals born daily. Predator action at its peak as they target vulnerable calves.

February: Calving continues with amazing photographic opportunities. Mothers form protective barricades while moving in herds.

March - May

Green Season

March: Perfect for exclusive safaris with reasonable accommodation prices and fewer crowds.

April-May: Long rains create stunning green landscapes filled with diverse wildlife. Great for budget travelers.

June

Optimal Month

Possibly the most optimal month to visit! Long rains dying down while surroundings remain green and vibrant. Less crowded as peak season starts end of June.

Note: Pack warm clothing for chilly crater rim nights.

July - September

Peak Dry Season

July-August: Peak season with more visitors. Wildlife viewing amazing, but August can be very dusty with hazy skies affecting photography.

September: Crater floor looks like a bowl of dust. Warm clothing advised for cold nights.

October - December

Transition & Short Rains

October: Transition month from dry to wet season.

November: Short rains begin, spring-like atmosphere, Palearctic migratory birds arrive.

December: Refreshing short rains, breeding activity increases, wildebeest herds on Serengeti-Ngorongoro border.

Ngorongoro Safari Packing List

Comfort is the go-to word! Pack breathable fabrics in neutral colors and prepare for varying temperatures from the crater floor to the rim.

Clothing Essentials

Important: Avoid bright colors (attract tsetse flies) and military/camouflage clothing.

Pants and long sleeve t-shirts (for bush walks and game drives)
Good quality boots and sandals
Wide-brim hat and sunglasses
T-shirts or polo shirts
Shorts for warm days
Long trousers for evening/night
Moisture-wicking underwear
Rain jackets for rainy season
Warm fleece or jacket (crater rim gets very cold)
Sleepwear and socks

Electronics - Major Priority!

Once-in-a-lifetime experience - capture every moment!

High-quality camera with zoom lens (300mm+ recommended)
Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42, 300mm magnification)
Extra memory cards and batteries
Power banks for smartphones
Travel adapters and converters
Flashlight and headlamp
Waterproof/zip-lock bags for electronics

Note: Don't bring hairdryers or straighteners - most accommodations lack sufficient power capacity.

Travel Documents

Valid passport
Tanzania Visa (available on arrival: US $100, EU/UK $50)
Copy of travel itinerary
Health/Travel insurance papers
Credit cards (Visa and MasterCard widely accepted)
Cash (US Dollars)
Medical certificates
Emergency contact numbers

Medical Kit

Better to be safe than sorry!

Anti-malaria tablets/pills
Mosquito repellent (DEET-based)
Antiseptic cream/ointment
Antibiotics
Cold/flu tablets
Motion sickness pills
Hand sanitizer
Personal prescription medications
Vitamin pills for entire trip

What NOT to Pack

Plastic items: Banned in Tanzania (zip-lock bags permitted)

Military clothing: Camouflage and military-inspired clothing prohibited

High-power devices: Hairdryers, straighteners not supported by camp power

The Ecosystem of Ngorongoro

The Ngorongoro ecosystem is a thriving combination of wildlife, birdlife, and vegetation that work together to form one of Africa's most diverse and spectacular natural environments.

Flora and Vegetation

Primary Flora: Vibrant green vegetation, desert plants, extensive short grass for grazing

Mountain Areas: Pure bamboo stretches on Makarut and Oldeani Mountains

Crater Slopes: Grasslands, scrub heath, upland woodlands with gum acacia and red thorn acacia

Crater Floor: Open grasslands, swamps, freshwater lakes, Acacia woodland patches

Forest Areas

Lerai Forest: Acacia and yellow fever trees on crater floor

Laiyanai Forest: Acacia Lahai and Pillar wood species

Western Plains: Grasslands dotted with Commiphora Africana and Umbrella Acacia

Lake Eyasi Region: Blackthorn Acacia and Zebrawood common

Wildlife of Ngorongoro

With over 25,000 large animals and 115 mammal species, Ngorongoro offers one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, making it exceptional for Big Five viewing.

The Big Five in Ngorongoro

Lions - Crater Kings

Multiple lion prides roam the crater floor and rim areas. The crater provides excellent year-round viewing of these magnificent predators as they hunt in the open grasslands and rest under acacia trees.

Leopards - Elusive Shadows

Leopards can be spotted in the highland forests of the crater rim and along riverine forests. Though shy, they are present throughout the conservation area, often seen resting in trees during the day.

Elephants - Gentle Giants

Large herds of elephants can be seen on the crater rim rainforests and around the conservation area. While not as common on the crater floor, they frequent the highlands and can be spotted from accommodations.

Cape Buffalo

Massive herds of Cape buffalo graze on the crater floor and plains regions. These powerful animals gather around water sources and provide spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities.

Black Rhinoceros

Ngorongoro is renowned across Tanzania for its black rhino population, thanks to dedicated conservation efforts. The conservation area is one of the best places in Tanzania to see these endangered giants.

Other Remarkable Wildlife

Cheetahs & Wild Dogs

African wild dogs, cheetahs, and other predators roam the crater rim and highlands. The open plains provide perfect hunting grounds for these speed specialists.

Ungulates Galore

Grant's gazelles, gnus (wildebeest), mountain reedbucks, elands, and hartebeests create the massive herbivore populations that support the predator density.

Hippos & Water Animals

Hippos can be seen around permanent freshwater pools in crater swamps. The famous hippo pools provide excellent viewing opportunities for these massive semi-aquatic mammals.

Predators & Scavengers

Spotted hyenas, black-backed and golden jackals, bat-eared foxes complete the predator guild. The crater has one of the densest predator populations in Africa.

Smaller Mammals

African civets, caracals, serval cats, and baboons add to the mammalian diversity. These smaller species are often spotted during night drives or early morning game drives.

550+ Bird Species

A birdwatcher's paradise! Lake Magadi hosts thousands of lesser flamingos, while the forests harbor hornbills and turacos. November-April brings European and North African migrants.

The Annual Migration

The Great Wildebeest Migration passes through Ngorongoro! Over 2 million hooved animals (1.8 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, 350,000 gazelles) move to the southern NCA in December and head north in June. This spectacular movement adds another dimension to wildlife viewing.

Places to Discover in Ngorongoro

Beyond the famous crater, Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers numerous hidden gems and significant sites that reveal the area's geological, archaeological, and natural wonders.

Must-Visit Destinations

Archaeological Wonder

Olduvai Gorge - Cradle of Mankind

The most important prehistoric site on our planet! Named after the Maasai word 'oldupaai' for wild sisal. Dr. Louis and Mary Leakey discovered the earliest remains of Homo sapiens here, nicknamed 'Nutcracker Man.' Visit the museum to see 2 million-year-old fossil remains and take guided walks around this fascinating gorge.

Scenic Viewpoint

Heroes Point

Stunning views of the Ngorongoro Crater floor from the rim. Watch herds of zebras, buffaloes, and wildebeests running across the crater floor below, and spot huge elephants on the edge of Lerai Forest. Perfect for photography and orientation.

Soda Lake

Lake Magadi

Located in the southwestern region of the crater, this shallow soda lake's name means 'salty' in Maasai. Home to thousands of lesser flamingos, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts and a must-visit destination.

Hidden Crater

Empakaai Crater

A relatively unknown gem in the highland region offering stunning panoramic views and glimpses of Ol Doinyo Lengai. Below the crater floor, enjoy exceptional birdwatching with flocks of flamingos and wildlife including elephants, cape buffaloes, and hyenas.

Mountain Wilderness

Gol Mountains & Nasera Rock

Series of ridges rising from short grass plains near the northern edge, believed to have originated millions of years before the Ngorongoro Crater. Home to Nasera Rock and several herbivores. Perfect for those seeking remote wilderness with minimal human presence.

Dual Lake System

Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek

Located in the far western region, these lakes are surrounded by shorter vegetation that attracts numerous animals including herbivores and diverse bird species. Important areas during the migration season.

Safari Activities in Ngorongoro

Few destinations are as rich in wildlife and heritage as Ngorongoro. This wonderful region offers diverse activities that showcase both natural wonders and cultural heritage.

Game Drives - Ultimate Wildlife Experience

The foremost activity in Ngorongoro! Descend to the crater floor to observe animals up close that appeared small from the rim. Our expert guides take you to every section including Lerai Forest and Lake Magadi. Enjoy a lovely picnic by the Hippo Pool.

Highlights: Big Five viewing, crater floor exploration, professional guides

Nature Walks - Bush Exploration

Explore rich surroundings and see animals and birds up close on short and long nature walks along the crater rim. Bask in the cool breeze and relax in the quiet, peaceful surroundings of Ngorongoro.

Experience: Close wildlife encounters, bird identification, botanical discoveries

Cultural Tours - Living Heritage

Learn about the lifestyle of native tribal communities! Visit Maasai villages to buy native arts and crafts at cultural centers. Explore Lake Eyasi region to meet the Hadzabe hunter-gatherer tribe who still live primitively, untouched by outside influences.

Includes: Maasai bomas, traditional crafts, Hadzabe encounters

Photographic Safaris - Capture Beauty

The extensive wildlife and gorgeous landscapes make Ngorongoro a picturesque destination. Best photography during early morning and late evening when lighting is perfect for capturing stunning sunrises, sunsets, and wildlife action.

Perfect for: Wildlife photography, landscape shots, cultural portraits

Laetoli - Footsteps of Ancestors

Walk in the footsteps of our ancestors! Visit this remote place where ancient human footprint trails were preserved. Take a journey to understand how far human beings have come in our evolutionary story.

Significance: Ancient footprints, human evolution, archaeological importance

Crater Rim Exploration

Experience the crater from multiple perspectives - from scenic viewpoints, walking trails, and different vantage points. Each offers unique views of the crater floor and surrounding landscapes.

Activities: Scenic drives, walking trails, viewpoint visits, photography sessions

Ngorongoro Accommodations

After a day of game drives, relax in comfortable accommodations ranging from budget-friendly camps to ultra-luxury lodges. Wake up to incredible crater views and fall asleep to the sounds of African wildlife.

Budget Options

Authentic wilderness experiences with basic amenities and great value for money.

Tanzania Bush Camp - Call of the wild experience
Simba Public Campsite
Rhino Lodge
Wildlife Lodge
Crater Forest Tented Camp

Explore More

Mid-Range Options

Comfortable lodges offering excellent service and prime locations with great value.

Karibu Camps - Luxury meets wilderness
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Ang'ata Ngorongoro Camp
Pakulala Safari Lodge
Acacia Ngorongoro Luxury Camp

Explore More

Luxury Options

Ultra-luxury lodges with world-class service, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences.

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge - Exotic Victorian-African blend
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
The Highlands Ngorongoro
Gibb's Farm
Entamanu Ngorongoro
Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge

Explore More

Featured Accommodation

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge: This safari lodge is truly on top of the world! An exotic blend of Victorian furnishings with touches of African influences creates a charming atmosphere that's almost as spectacular as the Ngorongoro Crater itself. If you want the utmost luxury with amazing amenities, this is the perfect choice.

Conservation Efforts

Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA) works tirelessly to protect this UNESCO World Heritage Site while allowing sustainable human habitation and tourism.

NCAA Management

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority governs this unique multi-use area, balancing wildlife conservation with human habitation. Their primary goal is safeguarding endangered species, especially black rhinos, from illegal poaching.

Rhino Conservation Success

Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts by NCAA and the Tanzanian government, there has been a significant rise in black rhino populations. Ngorongoro is now one of the best places in Tanzania to see these endangered giants.

Global Importance

Ngorongoro lies in a WWF Global Freshwater Eco-region, is an endemic bird region, and overlays a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, giving it tremendous global conservation significance.

Community Integration

The unique approach allows Maasai communities to live harmoniously with wildlife while contributing to conservation through traditional practices and modern tourism involvement.

Maasai Culture and Harmony

Ngorongoro is one of the only places on Earth where indigenous communities live in complete harmony with wildlife, creating a unique cultural and conservation model.

Living Heritage

About 42,000 people live within Ngorongoro Conservation Area, mostly Maasai pastoralists who have maintained their traditional way of life for centuries. They are a living symbol of Tanzania's rich cultural heritage.

Wildlife Coexistence

For centuries, the Maasai have lived in harmony with wildlife, practicing sustainable pastoralism that doesn't compete with or harm the natural ecosystem. This traditional lifestyle supports both cultural preservation and conservation.

Modern Integration

Maasai communities have successfully integrated into the modern tourism economy as drivers, trackers, guides, and cooks, bringing revenue while preserving their cultural identity and traditional knowledge.

Cultural Experiences You Can Enjoy

Visit traditional bomas (Maasai settlements)
Experience manyattas (village huts)
Visit local schools and clinics
Participate in traditional Maasai dances

Learn about "dance of seeing tomorrow"
Purchase authentic arts and crafts
Learn traditional customs and lifestyle
Hear fascinating Maasai stories and legends

Historical Significance: The cultural heritage extends beyond current inhabitants - human ancestors (Australopithecus Afarensis) lived here for almost 4 million years, truly making this the cradle of humanity.

Ngorongoro Through Famous Eyes

This charming destination has captured the hearts of celebrities, world leaders, and notable figures from around the globe, inspiring films and global recognition.

Bill Clinton

Former President of the United States visited Ngorongoro, recognizing its global significance as one of the world's most important natural and cultural heritage sites.

Queen Margrethe II

The Queen of Denmark visited Ngorongoro, highlighting the international royal recognition of this remarkable conservation area and its importance to global heritage.

Reverend Jesse Jackson

The renowned civil rights leader and activist visited Ngorongoro, appreciating both its natural wonders and cultural significance as the cradle of humanity.

Chris Tucker

The Hollywood actor and comedian experienced the wonders of Ngorongoro, joining the list of international celebrities who have been amazed by Africa's Eden.

Prince William

The British Royal Family member visited Ngorongoro, continuing the royal tradition of recognizing Tanzania's incredible natural and cultural heritage.

John Wayne

The legendary Hollywood actor starred in "Hatari," some scenes of which were filmed in Ngorongoro. The Academy Award-winning movie "Out of Africa" also featured Ngorongoro scenes.

2008 Leon Sullivan Summit

The entire delegation attending the 2008 Leon Sullivan Summit in Arusha also visited Ngorongoro Conservation Area, recognizing its importance as a model for sustainable development and conservation in Africa.

Fascinating Facts About Ngorongoro

Discover amazing facts that make Ngorongoro one of the world's most extraordinary destinations, from geological wonders to wildlife concentrations.

World's Largest Intact Caldera: Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest unfilled, inactive, and intact volcanic caldera on our planet

Predator Paradise: Home to some of the densest concentrations of predators in Africa

Living Community: Around 42,000 people live inside the premises of Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Big Five Haven: One of the best destinations in East Africa to spot endangered animals and all Big Five

Cradle of Humanity: One of the most significant prehistoric and human archaeological research sites on our planet

Tourism Magnet: More than 600,000 people visit Ngorongoro every year from around the world

Lake Magadi: Features a 7-mile soda lake that hosts thousands of flamingos

Volcanic Wonder: If the original volcano hadn't collapsed, it could have been as tall as Mount Kilimanjaro

Rhino Sanctuary: Best place in Tanzania to see endangered black rhinoceros

Unique Model: Only conservation area in Tanzania allowing human habitation and wildlife conservation together

Migration Route: Part of the Great Wildebeest Migration route with over 2 million animals passing through

Birdwatcher's Paradise: Over 550 species of birds including migratory species from Europe and North Africa

These facts only scratch the surface of Ngorongoro's wonders. Visit Africa's Eden and discover what lies in store for you! Create cherished memories that will last a lifetime in this eighth wonder of the world.

Explore More of Tanzania

Discover other incredible destinations that perfectly complement your Ngorongoro adventure. Each offers unique wildlife experiences and landscapes.

Serengeti National Park

The endless plains and Great Migration

Explore

Tarangire National Park

Land of giants with massive elephant herds

Explore

Lake Manyara

Famous for tree-climbing lions and flamingos

Explore

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about visiting Ngorongoro Conservation Area and planning your safari adventure.

Ngorongoro is a Maasai term that refers to the sound of the bell that hangs around the neck of the leader cow in a herd. The bell makes a sound like 'ngor ngor' which made the native Maasai pastoralists name the area Ngorongoro. It essentially means 'big hole' in English.

One day is satisfactory for a crater floor game drive if that's all the time you have. However, 2-3 days will open up new possibilities like visiting Olduvai Gorge, cultural tours, and exploring other craters like Empakaai. This increases your chances of seeing more animals and experiencing the full diversity of the conservation area.

Yes! Ngorongoro is one of the best places in East Africa to spot all Big Five. The crater has excellent populations of lions, leopards, elephants, and cape buffalo. Black rhinos are present but rare - Ngorongoro is actually one of the best places in Tanzania to see these endangered animals thanks to conservation efforts.

Ngorongoro is unique because it's a conservation area, not a national park, allowing human habitation alongside wildlife conservation. It's the only place in Tanzania where Maasai communities live in harmony with wildlife. It also contains the world's largest intact volcanic caldera and significant archaeological sites like Olduvai Gorge.

Wildlife viewing is excellent year-round in Ngorongoro. The dry season (June-October) offers easier wildlife spotting with shorter vegetation, while the wet season (November-May) provides lush landscapes and great birdwatching. June is often considered the optimal month - post-rains but pre-peak season crowds.

Yes! Olduvai Gorge, known as the "Cradle of Mankind," is located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. You can visit the museum to see 2 million-year-old fossil remains discovered by Dr. Louis and Mary Leakey, and take guided walks around this fascinating archaeological site where early human ancestors lived.