Attractions in Ngorongoro Crater and Conservation Area
Attractions in Ngorongoro Crater. The Ngorongoro Crater and its surrounding Conservation Area are among the most remarkable wildlife and geological wonders in Africa. Located in northern Tanzania and part of the greater Serengeti ecosystem, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a rare blend of scenery, wildlife, history, and culture—all in one location.
Whether you are interested in game viewing, geology, or ancient human history, Ngorongoro has something unforgettable to offer.
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Ngorongoro Crater
At the heart of the conservation area lies the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. It spans over 260 square kilometers and drops more than 600 meters (2,000 feet) from the rim to the crater floor.
This natural enclosure creates a year-round habitat for a wide range of animals, including:
- Lions and spotted hyenas
- Elephants and buffalo
- Zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles
- Hippos and crocodiles
- Flamingos and waterbirds at Lake Magadi
The crater is also one of the few places in East Africa where you may spot a black rhino in the wild.
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Olduvai Gorge (Oldupai Gorge)
Often called the “beginiing of man,” Olduvai Gorge is one of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites. It’s where scientists discovered some of the earliest human remains, dating back over 1.8 million years.
A visit to the Olduvai Museum provides fascinating insight into early human evolution and archaeology. The gorge itself is a stunning geological feature worth exploring for its history and landscape.
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Empakaai Crater
Less famous than the main Ngorongoro Crater but equally beautiful, Empakaai Crater showcases a smaller volcanic formation with a deep blue soda lake. Flamingos and other birds gather along the shoreline, and lush green vegetation covers the crater walls.
You can take a guided hike down into the crater, offering panoramic views and peaceful nature trails.
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Olmoti Crater
Olmoti Crater is a less-visited but scenic destination within the conservation area. A short hike leads to a small waterfall and views into the grassy crater, which is home to Maasai herders and wildlife.
It’s ideal for those interested in gentle walking safaris and cultural encounters.
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Lake Ndutu
Situated on the border of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park, Lake Ndutu is a seasonal soda lake surrounded by acacia woodland and open plains.
During the Great Migration, thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and predators gather here, especially from December to March when calving season takes place.
Lake Ndutu is a key location for game drives and off-road photography during this period.
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The Maasai Villages
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is unique in allowing both wildlife and humans to coexist. The Maasai people still live and herd livestock within the area, offering a chance for cultural interaction.
You can visit authentic Maasai villages, observe traditional customs, and learn how the community lives in harmony with nature. These visits must be done respectfully and preferably through registered cultural programs.
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The Lerai Forest
This beautiful acacia forest lies on the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. It offers shade and a habitat for elusive animals like leopards, elephants, and bushbucks.
It’s one of the best spots in the crater to observe forest-dwelling species and take scenic photos of wildlife framed by lush vegetation.
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Munge Waterfall
Flowing from the rim into the crater, Munge Waterfall is a seasonal cascade that adds beauty to the already spectacular scenery. While not always flowing, it’s a highlight during the wet season and can be seen from select parts of the rim.
Plan Your Tour
To visit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you’ll need a valid permit and a registered guide. Most safaris start from Arusha and combine Ngorongoro with Serengeti, Lake Manyara, or Tarangire National Park. Accommodations range from luxury lodges on the crater rim to mid-range tented camps and nearby lodges.
For the best wildlife viewing and weather, travel between June and October or during January to March for the calving season around Lake Ndutu.
