Have questions?

Call +255 783 884 129

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, located in northern Tanzania, is one of Africa’s most beautiful and important wildlife destinations. Covering around 8,292 square kilometers, it is famous for its stunning scenery, rich wildlife, and deep cultural heritage.

At the heart of the area lies the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera, spanning about 264 square kilometers. It is home to one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. The crater floor is about 1,500 meters above sea level, surrounded by green highlands that rise to over 3,600 meters.

Inside the crater, you’ll find open grasslands, swamps, and a soda lake—perfect habitats for wildebeests, zebras, buffalos, elephants, and predators like lions and hyenas. The crater walls are covered with lush forests, while the highlands outside are home to the Maasai people who graze their cattle in harmony with nature.

Ngorongoro is not only a place of breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife but also a living example of people and nature coexisting together. It truly is a destination where adventure, beauty, and culture meet.

Wildlife of Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro is one of the best places in Africa to see wildlife all year round. The crater alone hosts about 25,000 large animals, including the famous Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos.

You will also find large herds of zebras, wildebeests, hippos, and gazelles, along with many beautiful bird species such as flamingos, cranes, and vultures. Lions and hyenas are common predators here, taking advantage of the abundant prey.

Outside the crater, the Maasai people live side by side with the wildlife, continuing their traditional way of life. This balance between humans and nature makes Ngorongoro a truly special and unforgettable place for safari lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Key Attractions and Activities

Ngorongoro offers a wide range of amazing experiences for every traveler:

  • Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive: Explore the famous crater and enjoy close-up sightings of the Big Five, zebras, wildebeests, flamingos, and more.

  • Olduvai Gorge: Visit one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, known as the “Cradle of Mankind,” and learn about early human history.

  • Empakaai Crater: A hidden gem with a stunning soda lake surrounded by forests—perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

  • Cultural Visits: Meet the Maasai people and discover their traditional way of life, colorful culture, and ancient traditions.

Whether you’re looking for thrilling wildlife safaris, cultural encounters, or scenic hiking adventures, Ngorongoro offers something for everyone. It’s a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and culture all in one place.

The Meaning of “Ngorongoro”

The name “Ngorongoro” comes from the Maasai language. It is said to be the sound made by a cowbell (“ngoro ngoro”), symbolizing the Maasai’s deep connection to the land and their cattle.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area was established to protect both wildlife and the cultural heritage of the Maasai people. Unlike national parks, the Maasai are allowed to live and graze their animals here, creating a rare example of humans and wildlife living together peacefully.

The name “Ngorongoro” therefore represents harmony between people, animals, and nature a true symbol of balance and coexistence.