Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa’s most iconic landmarks, boasting the highest density of wildlife on the continent. Often referred to as the ‘eighth wonder of the world,’ this extraordinary site has gained international acclaim, drawing a growing number of visitors each year. While encountering other safari vehicles is inevitable, the unparalleled wildlife viewing in this breathtaking setting makes every visit unforgettable. There is truly nowhere else in Africa like Ngorongoro.

As the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, the Ngorongoro Crater forms a spectacular natural amphitheater spanning approximately 265 square kilometers, with crater walls rising up to 600 meters. At any given time, around 30,000 animals inhabit this thriving ecosystem. Perched over 2,200 meters above sea level, the crater rim has its own distinct climate. From this vantage point, visitors can marvel at the tiny shapes of animals moving across the crater floor far below. Wisps of clouds frequently drift around the rugged rim, and this remarkable location remains one of Tanzania’s few places where nighttime temperatures can be surprisingly cool.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area Facts

Long before Kilimanjaro earned the title of "The Roof of Africa," the Ngorongoro Crater dominated the continent with a colossal supervolcano that stood even taller and mightier. Three million years ago, this geological marvel towered over the land before collapsing to form the breathtaking caldera seen today. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area boasts one of the most diverse ecosystems in East Africa, offering visitors the chance to encounter nearly every regional animal species. The crater itself is home to approximately 25,000 large animals, including ungulates, buffalo, warthogs, hippos, and elephants, making it an unparalleled wildlife haven.
• Home to a thriving population of lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs, and leopards.
• Contains the earliest evidence of human ancestors, including the fossilized footprints at Laetoli.
• Features the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, often called the eighth wonder of the world