Ngorongoro conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority

UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Garden of Eden” in Africa

Best Time to Go

All year around

Famous For Over 2M+

Big Five

UNESCO

World Heritage Site

Peak Time

June - October

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“Africa’s Lost Eden”

The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera. Often called the “Garden of Eden,” it’s a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife and dramatic landscapes. The name “Ngorongoro” comes from the Maasai word imitating the sound of cowbells.

This conservation area is unique, it protects both wildlife and the semi-nomadic Maasai people who live within its boundaries. It’s one of the few places where humans and nature coexist in harmony.

More About Ngorongoro

Ngorongoro was designated as a conservation area in 1959, separating it from Serengeti National Park to allow human habitation. It spans over 8,000 square kilometers and includes the crater itself, highland forests, grasslands, and archaeological sites like Olduvai Gorge.

The crater floor is about 260 square kilometers and hosts over 25,000 large animals. Its enclosed geography creates a self-contained ecosystem, making it one of the most reliable places to see the Big Five.

Wildlife in Ngorongoro

African Lions

Ngorongoro has a dense lion population, often seen lounging on the crater floor.

African Elephants

Mostly solitary bulls roam the forested crater rim, some with impressively large tusks.

Black Rhinoceros

One of the best places in East Africa to spot endangered black rhinos in the wild.

Birdlife

Lake Magadi attracts flamingos, while the crater’s varied habitats host over 500 bird species.

African Buffalo

Large herds graze the grasslands, often seen near water sources.

Plains Zebras & Wildebeest

Thousands of grazers roam year-round, forming a constant wildlife spectacle.

Safari Activities

Experience the Ngorongoro Crater through various exciting adventures.

Game Drives

Descend into the crater for a full-day safari. Wildlife viewing is exceptional year-round.

Cultural Visits

Visit Maasai bomas to learn about traditional lifestyles and customs.

Walking Safaris

Explore the Empakaai and Olmoti craters with a ranger for a more intimate nature experience.

Archaeological Tours

Explore Olduvai Gorge, where some of the earliest human fossils were discovered.

Things to Know Before You Go

Key Regions of the Conservation Area

Elevation: Approximately 3,700 meters (12,080 feet) above sea level
Region: Arusha, Northern Tanzania
Nearby Landmarks: Close to Olmoti Crater and on the route to Empakaai Crater
Volcanic Origin: An extinct volcano formed during the Pleistocene era

Hiking & Tourism

Best Season to Hike: May to October (dry season)
Experience: Hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the Rift Valley, Ngorongoro Highlands, and even spot distant peaks like Oldoinyo Lengai.
Cultural Significance: The Maasai people consider it sacred and have grazed livestock on its slopes for generations.

UNESCO Connection

Lolmalasin is part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

Ngorongoro Safari Ideas

The Serengeti is a great place to visit any time of the year. Take a look at some of our favorite safari tours that go there.

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useful FAQs about Ngorongoro Crater

What is the Ngorongoro Crater?

It’s the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, formed about 2.5 million years ago. It’s a natural enclosure teeming with wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Where is it located?

In northern Tanzania, within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, about 180 km west of Arusha.

Is Ngorongoro Crater part of Serengeti National Park?

No, but it’s adjacent to Serengeti and part of the larger Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.

Can I see the Big Five in Ngorongoro?

Yes! Lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards are all present, often spotted in a single day.

Is the wildlife confined to the crater?

Most large animals stay within the crater due to its enclosed geography, but the broader conservation area includes other habitats.

Are walking safaris allowed in the crater?

No. Walking safaris are permitted only in designated areas outside the crater, such as Empakaai and Olmoti.

When is the best time to visit?

June to October (dry season) offers excellent wildlife viewing. November to May (wet season) brings lush scenery and fewer crowds.

Is the crater open year-round?

Yes, it’s accessible throughout the year.

How do I get there?

By road from Arusha (3–4 hours) or via nearby airstrips like Lake Manyara. Kilimanjaro International Airport is the closest major hub.

Are there lodges inside the crater?

No lodges are inside the crater itself, but several luxury and mid-range accommodations are located on the rim with spectacular views.

Can I have a hot lunch inside the crater?

Yes, but it must be pre-arranged. Designated picnic sites are available for this service.

Is Ngorongoro suitable for children?

Yes, game drives are family-friendly. Some hiking areas like Nasera Rock are accessible with children when guided.

Light clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera, and comfortable shoes.

Can I hike Lolmalasin Mountain?

Yes, it’s the third-highest peak in Tanzania. Best climbed during the dry season (May–October).

Destinations to Add to Your Ngorongoro Safari

See more of Africa by adding extra stops/destinations to your safari. You’ll enjoy many kinds of wildlife and beautiful nature.