NGORONGORO CRATER

Located in Tanzania's Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the Ngorongoro Crater is a remarkable natural feature. It stands as the largest volcanic caldera globally, remaining inactive, unbroken, and unfilled. As a highly popular African destination, it captivates visitors with its unique characteristics. Delve into the top ten intriguing facts about the Ngorongoro Crater to uncover more about this extraordinary marvel.

The expansive Ngorongoro Conservation Area stretches from Serengeti National Park in the north to the Great Rift Valley in the east, covering over 8,000 square kilometers (3,200 square miles). It encompasses various notable features, including the Ngorongoro Crater, Ndutu, Olduvai Gorge, Empakaai, Olmoti Crater, and Oldonyo Lengai Mountain. This diverse landscape comprises forests, valleys, savannahs, craters, lakes, and swamps, providing a habitat for a wide array of animal species.

The remarkable Ngorongoro Crater takes center stage within this area. Formed around two to three million years ago when a massive volcano erupted and collapsed, it created a distinct ecosystem with a rich variety of vegetation. Today, the crater is renowned for hosting the highest concentration of wildlife in Africa. It is home to zebras, buffaloes, warthogs, baboons, elephants, flamingos, ostriches, and hippos. The crater also boasts a significant population of predators, including lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs, and leopards. Undoubtedly, one of the major attractions of the Ngorongoro Crater is the opportunity to witness the Big Five – buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion, and rhino. All these magnificent creatures can be observed within the 20-kilometer (12.5-mile) wide and 600-meter (2,000-foot) deep crater. Marvel at the diverse range of animals and the stunning colors of the landscape. The views from the crater rim overlooking the crater floor are truly breathtaking. Recognized for its natural splendor, the crater has earned its place as one of Africa's Seven Natural Wonders.

In addition to wildlife exploration, visitors to the area also have the chance to visit the Maasai tribe. The Maasai people are permitted to graze their livestock in this region. If you are eager to learn more about their fascinating lifestyle and rituals, we recommend booking a Maasai Tour.

If you are interested in incorporating the Ngorongoro Crater into your itinerary, take a look at our Tanzania safaris for inspiration or feel free to contact us for personalized advice.

The formation of the Ngorongoro Crater occurred when a massive volcano erupted and subsequently collapsed upon itself, leading to the creation of a caldera approximately two and a half million years ago.

When the Ngorongoro Crater was an active volcano, it is believed to have reached a size comparable to that of Mount Kilimanjaro, one of the world's highest peaks. Estimates of the original height of the volcano vary, ranging from 4,500 to 5,800 meters. The crater itself is about 610 meters deep and covers an area of 260 square kilometers.

Within the conservation area surrounding the Ngorongoro Crater, approximately 40,000 people reside alongside a remarkable abundance of wildlife. The area is home to around 30,000 animals, including leopards, cheetahs, elephants, hyenas, warthogs, buffalos, impalas, and serves as a significant habitat for endangered species like black rhinos and black-maned male lions.

Although giraffes are not found within the crater, as the steep sides make it challenging for them to descend, they can still be observed in the vicinity of the crater.

The Ngorongoro Crater, along with two other nearby craters (Olmoti and Empakai), was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. It is also recognized as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area holds great archaeological significance as one of the most important prehistoric sites globally. Within this area lies the Olduvai Gorge, where a major archaeological discovery took place in the 1950s. Fossils unearthed here represent the earliest evidence of the human species and significantly advanced our understanding of evolution.

Tourism plays a vital role in the economic growth of the region. However, visitor numbers are carefully monitored to prevent environmental damage. Each year, approximately 450,000 individuals visit the Ngorongoro Crater and gorge, and all visitors are required to obtain permits for entry.

Visitors to the Ngorongoro Crater account for roughly 60% of the total 770,000 annual tourists to Tanzania.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area served as a filming location for the Oscar-winning movie "Out of Africa." In one scene, the crater can be spotted as Denys takes off from the Olkurruk airstrip, flying over the Masai Mara and Ngorongoro.

Due to its stunning beauty and abundant wildlife, the Ngorongoro Crater is often referred to as "the Garden of Eden," symbolizing a paradise for animals and capturing the awe-inspiring essence of the region.

What are the most common animals in Ngorongoro?

Animals in Ngorongoro

Rhinos

Hippos

Lions

Grant Gazelles

Thomson Gazelles

Zebras

Wildebeests

Warthogs

Highland Antelopes

Elephants

Jackals

Ostriches