All destinationsNorthern Circuit / Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Northern Tanzania
- Area
- 8,292 sq km
- Altitude
- 1,800-3,648m above sea level
- Established
- 1959
The place
UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the world's largest intact volcanic caldera
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's most famous safari destinations. The centerpiece is the Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, spanning 20 kilometers across. This natural amphitheater contains one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including the rare black rhinoceros. The area also preserves Maasai pastoral culture and contains important archaeological sites.
Known for
- 01Ngorongoro Crater
- 02Black rhinoceros
- 03High wildlife density
- 04Maasai culture
- 05Archaeological sites
Who you'll meet
Black rhinoceros Lion Leopard Elephant Buffalo Cheetah Hyena Wild dog Zebra Wildebeest Hippo Flamingo Ostrich
What to do there
Highlights
- Crater floor game drives with incredible wildlife density
- Visit Olduvai Gorge - Cradle of Mankind
- Cultural interactions with Maasai communities
- Lake Magadi flamingo viewing
- Empakaai Crater hiking
Ways to explore
- Game drives
- Cultural tours
- Archaeological site visits
- Crater rim walks
- Photography
When to go
Our recommended months
Temperate climate due to high altitude. Crater rim can be cool and misty. Dry season offers clearer views and easier wildlife spotting.
Staying & getting there
Where you'll stay
- Crater rim lodges
- Luxury tented camps
- Budget camping
Getting there
3-4 hours drive from Arusha via paved road. Charter flights available to nearby airstrips.
Before you go
- 1.No night game drives in crater
- 2.Maximum 6 hours on crater floor
- 3.No off-road driving
- 4.Cultural sensitivity required in Maasai areas
Ngorongoro Conservation Area, planned around you.
Tell us when you'd like to travel and how you like to explore. We'll shape a private itinerary and reply within 24 hours.
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