The Ngorongoro Crater
Destinations
Northern Circuit
Overview
This expansive and picturesque caldera boasts a thriving ecosystem, harboring approximately 25,000 large animals, including the world’s densest population of lions and spotted hyenas, as well as majestic old tuskers and East Africa’s remaining black rhinos.
According to legend, the Ngorongoro was once a towering mountain rivaling Kilimanjaro in height. About 3 million years ago, a cataclysmic eruption shattered the mountain, blanketing the Serengeti in ash while the crater floor sank into the earth. Today, the rim stands at 2,285 meters (7,497ft), encompassing the world’s largest complete volcanic caldera, spanning approximately 18km (11 miles) in diameter and covering an area of 260 sq km (100 sq miles). Its sheer-sided rim, rising over 600 meters (1,969ft) at its highest point, offers a mesmerizing vista of unparalleled natural beauty. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Ngorongoro Crater remains a testament to the earth’s tumultuous history.
Descend into the crater floor, a veritable Shangri-La teeming with wildlife and lush vegetation. As one of the most densely populated game areas globally, it serves as a sanctuary for endangered species, including the elusive black rhino and the increasingly rare cheetah. With At Acacia Bliss Tours & Safaris, a tour to the Ngorongoro Crater is at the highest of our recommended places to visit for an unforgettable safari experience.
Situated in northern Tanzania, about 180 kilometers northwest of Arusha, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) is a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and archaeological significance. Nestled southeast of the Serengeti National Park and just north of Lake Manyara National Park, this natural marvel is often referred to as “Africa’s Eden.”
Geological Marvel
The Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, is a breathtaking geological wonder. With a depth of 610 meters, a diameter of 16 kilometers, and covering a surface area of 540 square kilometers, the crater is a stunning sight to behold. This natural amphitheater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most significant natural landmarks.
Diverse Wildlife
The crater floor is teeming with wildlife, making it a prime destination for safari enthusiasts. You can observe almost every species of big game, including zebras, wildebeests, black rhinos, antelopes, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, cheetahs, leopards, and numerous monkeys.
Notably, the crater hosts many large bull elephants, although female breeding elephants are less common due to the steep crater walls. Bird watchers will find a paradise here, with thousands of flamingos inhabiting Lake Magadi’s shallows and hundreds of other bird species throughout the area.
- Cultural and Historical Significance
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage. The Maasai people, with their distinctive customs and traditions, live harmoniously alongside the wildlife. Additionally, the area includes Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world. This site gained fame through the discoveries of the Leakey family, who uncovered a 1.8 million-year-old hominid skeleton, offering invaluable insights into early human evolution.
Experience Ngorongoro Crater with
Acacia Bliss Tours & Safaris
To fully appreciate the wonders of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a guided safari with Acacia Bliss Tours & Safaris is highly recommended. Our expert guides will ensure you experience the best of this natural and historical treasure, from the diverse wildlife to the rich archaeological sites.
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Get in touch
Arusha Tanzania
+255 655 316 215
info@acaciablisstours.com
