What about you journey with us to a land that defines what a holiday destination holds. With an open blue sky, a vast water body, rolling hills and one of the largest volcanic calderas on earth, a tell of Ngorongoro crater is a Unique one. Ngorongoro crater was established in 1959, to accommodate both the semi-nomadic Masai pastoralists and wildlife. The conservation comprises of magnificent crater; one of Africa’s natural wonders; and Olduvai gorge- a place with some of the fossils believed to be for some of the first humans on earth. Over 25000 animals; inclusive the zebras, Grant gazelles, wildebeests, black Rhinos and the wild cats call home.

Ngorongoro crater area is situated in the northern safari circuit of the republic of Tanzania in the eastern part of Africa. Tanzania is the largest country in east Africa, neighbored by Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and more. About 40% of its land surface is covered by water bodies, mountains, and national parks. Ngorongoro Conservation area measures about 8288sqkm, with wetland, woodland, forest and ancient volcanoes. Its crater is over 2-3million years old. It is neighbored by Kenya boarder to the south, Serengeti national park to the North West as well as the eastern arm of the Great Rift Valley. A road trip from Arusha/Kilimanjaro national park is about 5-6 hours, with stunning view of the landscape, dotted homesteads and busy towns.

Activities at Ngorongoro conservation Area

Game drive and Wildlife safari

Kobs, jackals, leopards, Rhinoceros, elephants, Buffaloes, wildebeest, zebras, warthogs,  cheetahs, hyenas, lions, and more. Keep your eyes open and you will keep counting for about 3-4 four hours, or for a full day across the open savannah grassland. On a 4wd, you get to safely draw closer to the animals as the ranger guide explains whatever you need to know about the animals such as the names, unique behaviors, habitat and what they feed on.

Birding

Ngorongoro conservation area has over 550 birdsepecies thus one of the best birding destinations in the republic of Tanzania. Through the designated birding areas, you can chance among others; the koori bustard(the bird with the largest nest on earth), flamingoes,  forest buzzard, white eyes slaty, golden winged sunbirds, egrets, and many more. The best time to watch the birds is early morning or late in the evening hours when there is no much heat.

Hot air balloon

This is one of the most adventurer’s ways of exploring Mother Nature. You have an aerial view of the animals, birds, the landscape, water bodies and the crater. The activity takes about an hour, and ends with a bush breakfast experience where you have a toast of Champaign and a variety of eats and drinks. On a good day, the animals you have desired to watch come your way.

Cultural activities

Ngorongoro conservation area is one of the only few places on earth where you will spot human settlements and activities with wildlife. We have the Masai warriors and Tanzania’s last Bushmen. Over 300 years ago, the Bushmen arrived and settled in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro areas. They are among a few tribes who have upheld to their primitive live which visitors experience when with them. It is an ancient culture here, with a rich history, and stories. The Masai warriors on the other hand remain an entertaining culture with unique stories, and activities. If not taking visitors to their kraal and cottages, you will have an unforgettable time of songs and stories of how their forefathers depended on cattle for wealth and fame.

Nature and crater view safari

Explore one of the largest craters on earth on foot. You may want to have a close look at the wonder, study, do photography or for any other reason. The guides will accompany you through the crater rim where get to watch the open grass land, woodland, the acacia forest cover, the Masai warriors with herds of cattle to or from their kraals, the birds, and more. The hike crates a moment of relief, fun, and uncovering Mother Nature.

Best time for Ngorongoro Visit and what to Carry?

Ngorongoro crater is open for tourism all year round, with activities starting at 6am and gates close by 7pm. The best weather for travel is in the months of June to September or January to March. The duration of your stay guides on what you will carry for the trip. Among the many include: a waterproof hiking boots, long sleeved shirts, good camera, binoculars, a hat, warm cloths, insect repellant and more.

In conclusion, plan your trip to Ngorongoro conservation area and have unforgettable safari experience. There is no worries about accommodation at the area, accessibility, safety and fun. All you need is to book at least three months in advance for proper planning. Other destinations to combine with Ngorongoro include; Serengeti National park, Mount Kilimanjaro, Lake Manyara, Arusha national park and more.