Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area stands as one of nature’s most remarkable sanctuaries, where the rhythm of wildlife and the heartbeat of ancient landscapes coexist in harmonious splendor. Nestled within the heart of Tanzania, this UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a geological marvel with its breathtaking volcanic caldera but a living, breathing ecosystem that supports a diverse tapestry of flora and fauna. From the majestic elephants that roam its plains to the elusive big cats that stalk the grasslands, Ngorongoro offers an unrivaled opportunity to witness nature at its most raw and beautiful. As a wildlife ecologist and tour operator, we invite you to explore this unique haven, where the cultural richness of the Maasai people blends seamlessly with the wild pulse of Africa, offering an experience that is both awe-inspiring and deeply transformative.

Multiple land use Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a “multiple land-use area” because it allows both wildlife conservation and Maasai pastoralism to coexist. After the Maasai people were evicted from the Serengeti Ecosystem in early 1959 by the colonial government, they agreed to provide them with free education, medical care, and food supplies within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

However, starting in mid-February 2022, the government stopped the food supply, while continuing to offer education and medical services. This shift is part of a broader strategy to reduce the Maasai population and cattle numbers in the area to ensure the long-term sustainability of the ecosystem. In parallel, the government is constructing a new village for the Maasai in Msomera, Tanga Region, where permanent houses and social services are being built to support their transition while protecting the Ngorongoro ecosystem.

Activities in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area

• Visit Olduvai Gorge – The Cradle of Mankind
• Trekking the Gol Mountains & Nasera Rock
• Hot Air Balloon Safari (Seasonal in Ndutu)
• Visiting Salei Plains & Engaruka Ruins
• Empakaai and Olmoti Crater Hikes
• Discover the Laetoli Footprints
• Exploring the Shifting Sands
• Cultural Visits to Maasai Villages
• Wildlife filming & photographic safari
• Flowers blooming season
• Birdwatching

Special Bird Species to See in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering a stunning array of species, including several East African endemics. The grasslands come alive with the calls of Lynes’s Cisticola and Hunter’s Cisticola, while the Red-cowled Widowbird and Jackson’s Widowbird dazzle during their elaborate mating displays. In the lush montane forests, you’ll find the melodious Grey-capped Warbler, the elusive Brown-headed Apalis, and the striking Schalow’s Turaco. Highland meadows are home to the Sentinel Lark and shimmering sunbirds like the Tacazze, Green-headed, and Golden-winged Sunbird. Other must-see species include the vibrant Eastern Double-collared Sunbird, the rare Mbulu White-eye, and the secretive Purple-throated Cuckooshrike. Keep an eye out for the Brown Parisoma, a master of disguise in the dense foliage. With its breathtaking landscapes and remarkable birdlife, Ngorongoro is a dream destination for any bird lover.

Climate

The climate of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is generally temperate, with cool temperatures at higher altitudes and more moderate conditions at lower elevations.

• Dry season (June to October): This period is characterized by warm days and cooler nights, making it ideal for wildlife viewing.
• Wet season (November to May): This period includes the short rains (November to December) and the long rains (March to May). The climate is generally mild, with occasional heavy showers, and the landscape becomes lush and green, perfect for bird watching and flower blooming.

Temperatures typically range between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F), with cooler temperatures at the crater rim and warmer conditions in the lower regions of the conservation area.

Best Time to Visit

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a year-round destination, but the dry season (from June to October) is particularly ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources. For bird watchers, the wet season (from November to April) is great, as many migratory birds arrive. The flower blooming season is during the short rains, typically November to December, creating a beautiful landscape. Additionally, the calving season in Ndutu occurs from December to March, when the wildebeest gives birth, offering an incredible wildlife spectacle.

How to Get there

To get to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you can fly to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). From there, you can take a domestic flight to Manyara or Seronera airports, or drive for about 4-5 hours from Arusha. The area is accessible by 4×4 vehicles via well-maintained roads, with routes leading through the scenic landscapes of the Serengeti or Lake Manyara. Ensure your vehicle is equipped for the rugged terrain, especially during the rainy season.