There is no need to look far to find one of Tanzania and Africa’s most well known destinations than the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This protected area is famous for wildlife, history, and natural features that attract visitors from all over the world. It is one of the most important safari areas in East Africa and plays a major role in tourism and conservation.
Within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area lies the Ngorongoro Crater, which is the largest intact crater lake in the world. The crater was formed about two million years ago after a large volcanic eruption followed by a collapse. The crater covers about 260 square kilometers and drops to a depth of around 610 meters. Visiting the crater floor is one of the main highlights of a trip to Ngorongoro.
Beyond the crater itself, the conservation area offers many other attractions. Ngorongoro is home to more than 25,000 large animals. During the wet season, around 1.7 million wildebeests move into the Ndutu Plains for calving. At the same time, about 470,000 gazelles and over 260,000 zebras also give birth in this area. This period attracts many predators and provides good wildlife viewing.
Interesting Facts About Ngorongoro Crater
- The Ngorongoro Crater was created by strong volcanic forces. A massive eruption caused the original volcano to collapse inward, forming the crater seen today.
- The crater is about 610 meters deep and covers roughly 260 square kilometers.
- The Maasai live within the conservation area. About 40,000 people share the land with more than 25,000 animals. Ngorongoro is one of the best places to see endangered black rhinos and black maned male lions.
- There are no giraffes inside the crater. It is believed that the steep crater walls make it difficult for them to move in and out. Giraffes can still be seen in other parts of the conservation area.
- Ngorongoro Crater was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 and is also counted among the Seven Wonders of Africa.
- The Olduvai Gorge is located within the conservation area and is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
- Tourism supports both conservation and local communities. Over 40,000 visitors enter Ngorongoro each year, and permit fees help fund community projects and wildlife protection.
- Well known visitors have included Bill Clinton, the Queen of Denmark, and Prince William.
- The movie Out of Africa was filmed here and later won an Oscar.
- Ngorongoro Crater is often called the Garden of Eden because of its rich wildlife and closed ecosystem that supports life all year round.
Visit Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania with these reputable Tanzania safari companies or reach out to us below to book your Tanzania safari holiday directly through this Ngorongoro website.
