Africa's Eden, where nature, wildlife, and humanity coexist harmoniously. Home to the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, 25,000 large animals, and the cradle of mankind at Olduvai Gorge.
Ngorongoro District, Arusha Region
8,292 sq km
1959
25,000+ Animals
500,000+
NCAA
Africa's Eden, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area stretches across an area of 8,300 sq. km. It's one of the only places on our planet where nature, wildlife, and humanity coexist harmoniously. This protected area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's located in the Ngorongoro District.
The NCA is named after the Ngorongoro Crater, a huge volcanic caldera within the area's premises. Going back almost 2.5 million years ago, the calderas in the NCA were formed after major eruptions. A once-active volcano erupted so fiercely that it caused an explosion, creating what we now refer to as the largest intact caldera in the world.
The land inside the area is multi-purposeful, providing a haven for wildlife as well as humans. It serves as a way to advance human development without leaving footprints on natural resources. In the modern era, the land of the NCA is the only conservation area across Tanzania that helps in wildlife conservation as well as allowing human habitation.
Some fossil pieces of evidence were found in the Olduvai Gorge showing that hominid species were occupying the area for 3 million years. The name was given by the Maasai pastoralists and it resembles the sound a cowbell makes. Ngorongoro means 'big hole' in English. If the volcanic eruption hadn't happened then, the Crater could have been as tall as Mount Kilimanjaro.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is easily accessible. You'll have a couple of options to choose from – by road or by air.
The NCA is about 180 km from the town of Arusha. There's a paved road connecting the NCA and Arusha which enters the area through the Loduare Gate. The gate is about 30 km from the town of Karatu.
Another option is driving from Serengeti National Park. There's a good gravel road through the Naabi Hill Gate.
Flying into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is by far the most convenient option. You can get to NCA by charter plane. An airstrip is situated on the rim of the crater close to the headquarters.
This is the southernmost gate of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It's one of the most popular gates for visitors because of its proximity to the town of Arusha. The gate is located close to the hippo pools and Lake Magadi. Opening hours are from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
This gate is the main access point for the Western Corridor region. Located around 145 km from the Seronera region. This gate is also the administrative checkpoint and has the offices of both the Tanzania National Park Authority and Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority. Opening hours: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, last entry 4:00 pm.
| Category | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Visitors above 16 | $50 | Adult entrance fee |
| Ages 5-16 | $10 | Children's entrance fee |
| Under 5 years | Free | No cost for young children |
Ngorongoro Conservation Area experiences a mild, temperate climate. Generally, there are two wet seasons: short rains (October to November) and long rains (March to May).
Wildlife in Ngorongoro Conservation Area is excellent throughout the year. The vegetation of the crater floor is shortest in the dry season, making spotting wildlife easier. The spectacular landscapes in the wet season are some of the best you'll ever see.
January is the breeding season or mass calving season in Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Nearly 8,000 newborn babies are born each day. Right after birth, these calves can be seen running around the grasslands, but face challenges from predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Mothers form protective barricades while moving in herds.
February is a great time to see the wildlife of the NCA in action. The calving season continues in full flow, providing great photographic opportunities. You'll see many predators surrounding the plains in search of their next meal.
For travelers looking for an exclusive safari experience, March is the best option. You'll be able to get the best Ngorongoro accommodation options within a reasonable price range.
The long rains start at the end of March and continue in April and May. Following this, Ngorongoro Conservation Area turns into a stunning landscape filled with diverse wildlife.
June is possibly the most optimal month to visit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The long rains have begun to die down, yet the surroundings are still green and vibrant. The safari circuit is less crowded as peak season only starts at the end of June and early July.
July marks the start of peak season with more visitors. The long rains are a distant memory, and wildlife viewing is amazing. August is one of the driest months with yellow and dusty landscapes and shorter grass making wildlife viewing convenient.
The dry season continues in September, leaving the crater floor looking like a bowl of dust with dry and yellow grasslands. Warm clothing is advised for visitors because of cold nighttime temperatures.
This is a transition month in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The beginning of October is the peak of the long dry season, while towards the end, the short rains arrive bringing relief from the extending dryness.
The NCA tends to be warm and wet in November. The short rains create a spring-like atmosphere after the long dry season. The first Palearctic migratory birds start arriving in November, making for a sensational birdwatching experience. December sees the short rains provide a refreshing feel, initiating breeding activity among birds and mammals.
Planning for a Safari in Tanzania takes time and effort. Here's a complete packing guide to help you prepare for a Ngorongoro Safari.
Breathable and comfortable fabrics are essential. Avoid bright colors and military-inspired clothing.
Capture the once-in-a-lifetime experience with proper equipment.
Note: Don't bring hairdryers or straighteners - most accommodations won't have enough power capacity.
Essential documents for a smooth trip.
Better to be safe than sorry.
Important: No plastic items allowed - they are banned in Tanzania. Use zip lock bags instead.
The ecosystem of Ngorongoro is a combination of wildlife, birdlife, and vegetation that work together to form a thriving bubble of life.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area's primary flora includes vibrant green vegetation and desert plants. The area combines plenty of short grass for grazing, arid and semi-arid plants, highland forests, and lowland vegetation.
African Civets, Caracals, Baboons, Hippos, Serval Cats
Grant's gazelles, Gnus, Mountain Reedbucks, Elands, Hartebeests
Cheetahs, African Wild Dogs, Black-backed Jackals, Spotted Hyenas, Bat-eared Foxes
Cape Buffalo, Lion, Rhinoceros, Leopard, Elephant
More than 550 species of birds have been recorded in the NCA, including both resident and migrant species. With such a huge bird population, Ngorongoro can turn even the most uninterested into seasoned birdwatchers.
Lake Magadi on the crater floor is often filled with thousands of lesser flamingos and other water birds. They can also be seen around Empakaai Crater Lake and Lake Ndutu.
NCA welcomes migratory birds from Europe and Northern Africa from November to April, including pallid harriers, European bee-eaters, European storks, and Caspian Lapwing.
There's a lot to discover in and around the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Here are the best places to visit.
At the distant end of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area stands the Cradle of Mankind – the Olduvai Gorge! This is one of the most important prehistoric sites on our planet. Named after the Maasai word 'oldupaai' for the wild sisal that grows around the area.
The earliest remains of Homosapiens were found here by Dr. Louis and Mary Leakey, nicknamed 'Nutcracker Man.' There's a museum where you can visit and admire the 2 million years old fossil remains. Guided walks around the gorge are also available.
This is where you will see the stunning sights of Ngorongoro's crater floor. Look closely at the floor below and you'll witness herds of zebras, buffaloes, and wildebeests running across the surroundings. Another unique sight will be the huge elephants on the edge of the Lerai Forest.
This lake's name means "salty" in the Maasai language. It's a shallow soda lake located in the southwestern region of the Ngorongoro Crater. Lake Magadi is home to several lesser flamingos, making it a perfect place for birdwatching enthusiasts and a must-visit destination on safaris in Tanzania.
Located in the northern Ngorongoro District, Lake Natron is perhaps the most beautiful of all the Rift Valley lakes. This lake is renowned for being the breeding ground of lesser flamingos. A great attraction close to the lake is the 'Mountain of God' – Ol Doinyo Lengai! This is an active volcano located just south of the lake in the Gregory Rift.
A hidden gem of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area located along the highland region. Here, you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views and a glimpse of the Ol Doinyo Lengai. Just below the crater floor, birdwatching opportunities are plentiful. You'll see flocks of flamingos along with animals like elephants, cape buffaloes, and hyenas.
Another hidden gem of the NCA! This crater is a fascinating remain of the volcanic activity that shaped the highland region. The name means "cooking pot" in the Maasai language. You'll see beautiful birds here, including the Verreaux's Eagle and augur buzzard. There's also a small waterfall called Munge waterfall at the edge of the crater floor.
These series of ridges rise from the short grass plains near the northern edge of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. These mountain ridges are believed to have originated millions of years before the Ngorongoro Crater. Several herbivores live in the areas surrounding the Gol Mountains. The amazing Nasera Rock is also located close to the mountains.
Both these lakes are located in the far western region of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The shorter vegetation around the lakes attracts several animals, including herbivores and a range of bird species.
Few Tanzania destinations are as rich in wildlife and legacy as the NCA. This wonderful region is a must-visit for any safari enthusiast.
The foremost thing every traveler needs to do is go on game drives in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is going to be the best experience on your Tanzania Safari Tour. The area is overflowing with wildlife and is one of the best places in Africa where you can spot the Big Five.
Once you reach the Ngorongoro Crater floor, you'll observe different animals that were too small to be seen from the rim. Our safari guides will take you to every section of the crater, including Lerai Forest and Lake Magadi. You can spend an entire day on a game drive and enjoy a lovely picnic by the Hippo Pool.
Exploring the rich surroundings and seeing animals and birds up close is a wholly different experience. This is exactly what you'll enjoy in the NCA by going on short and long nature walks along the crater rim. Bask in the cool breeze and relax your mind in the quiet and peaceful surroundings of Ngorongoro.
Tanzania Cultural Tours are a great way to learn about the lifestyle of the native tribal communities. There's no better place to go on cultural excursions than the NCA because the Maasai people live in harmony with the area's surroundings and wildlife.
On a visit to the Maasai villages, you can buy native arts and crafts at the cultural centers and shops. The region around Lake Eyasi is home to the native hunter-gatherer tribe known as the Hadzabe, who still live their life in a primitive way with culture untouched by outside influences.
The extensive wildlife and gorgeous landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area make it a picturesque safari destination. The best time for a photographic safari is during the early morning and late evening. On top of wildlife, you will also be able to capture stunning sunrises and sunsets.
Safaris to Tanzania would be incomplete without learning about our ancient ancestors. The NCA takes this one step further! This is the place where trails of ancient human footprints were left. Take a journey to this remote place and marvel at how far human beings have come.
After a day full of game drives along the crater rims of the NCA, you will need a comfortable bed. Ngorongoro doesn't disappoint! There is a range of accommodation options, including budget, mid-range, and luxury choices.
Budget Choice
Situated right in the lap of Mother Nature, this Ngorongoro accommodation is the perfect choice for budget travelers. Those who want a great natural experience certainly won't be disappointed.
Mid-Range Choice
A blend of authentic Tanzanian wilderness and luxury, this accommodation falls into the mid-range category. Karibu Camps offer you top-notch facilities along with unparalleled hospitality and comfort.
Luxury Choice
A safari lodge that's on top of the world! An exotic blend of Victorian furnishings with touches of African influences. If you want the utmost luxury with amazing amenities, there's no other perfect choice than this accommodation.
The NCA is home to the world's largest intact caldera – the Ngorongoro Crater!
Home to some of the densest concentrations of predators in Africa.
There are close to 25,000 large mammals in the NCA.
One of the best destinations in East Africa to spot endangered animals and the Big Five.
One of the most significant prehistoric and human archaeological research sites on our planet!
Around 42,000 people live inside the premises of Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
More than 600,000 people visit the NCA every year.
There's a 7-mile lake in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area called Lake Magadi.
Just like many travelers, the NCA has tugged the heartstrings of celebrities too. This charming destination has been visited by several well-known famous individuals through the years.
Civil Rights Leader
Former President of the United States
Queen of Denmark
Actor and Comedian
British Royal Family
Legendary Actor
Some scenes from the Academy Award-winning movie "Out of Africa" and John Wayne's "Hatari" were filmed in Ngorongoro. The entire delegation attending the 2008 Leon Sullivan Summit which took place in Arusha National Park also visited the NCA.
Experience the wondrous capital of conservation where humanity and wildlife coexist in harmony. Visit the world's largest intact caldera and walk in the footsteps of our ancestors at the cradle of mankind.
Professional guides with deep knowledge of the area
Entry fees, transport, and accommodation included
Meet the Maasai and learn about ancient human history