NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a breathtaking destination located in northern Tanzania. This area is a testament to the unique blend of natural wonders and cultural significance. The conservation area is home to the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater, which is the world's largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera. The crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a natural wonder that should be on every traveler's bucket list. In addition to the crater, the conservation area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five, and offers a unique cultural experience with the Maasai people, who have been living in the area for centuries. Whether you're a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for an adventure, Ngorongoro Conservation Area has something for everyone.

When to visit:

The best time to visit Ngorongoro Conservation Area is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the grass is shorter, making it easier to spot wildlife. However, it is also peak tourist season, so it can get crowded. The wet season, from November to May, is also a good time to visit, as the scenery is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists. However, some areas may be inaccessible due to flooding.

History:

Ngorongoro Conservation Area has a rich history that dates back millions of years. The area was once a massive volcanic mountain that collapsed millions of years ago, leaving behind the Ngorongoro Crater. The Maasai people have been living in the area for hundreds of years and have a deep spiritual connection to the land. In the 1950s, the area was declared a conservation area to protect its unique wildlife and ecology.

Wildlife:

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the famous Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. In addition, there are several other species of mammals, such as zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, and cheetahs. The area is also home to over 500 species of birds, making it a haven for bird watchers.

One of the main attractions of the area is the Ngorongoro Crater, which is a natural amphitheater that measures 20 kilometers in diameter and is home to an incredible concentration of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see large herds of zebras and wildebeests, as well as predators such as lions and leopards. The crater is also home to the endangered black rhino, which is one of the few remaining populations in the world.

Activities:

Here are some of the activities you can enjoy while visiting Ngorongoro Conservation Area:

• Game drives in the Ngorongoro Crater
• Walking safaris with Maasai guides
• Visiting the Maasai village and learning about their culture
• Bird watching
• Hiking to the Empakaai Crater
• Picnicking in scenic spots
• Night game drives for a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife
• Photography and filming of the stunning landscapes and wildlife
• Educational visits to Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world
• Hot air balloon safaris over the crater for a bird's eye view of the area

Accommodation:

There are several accommodation options in and around Ngorongoro Conservation Area, ranging from luxury lodges to budget campsites. Some popular options include Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, and Ndutu Safari Lodge.

Getting there:

The easiest way to get to Ngorongoro Conservation Area is by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport and then taking a chartered flight or driving to the area. The drive from Arusha takes about 3 hours.