Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Yes, a safari in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater is a must do! Why?

Firstly, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest un-flooded and unbroken caldera in the world. At approximately 20 km across and 600 m deep, this cavernous volcanic crater is a breathtaking natural wonder that will leave you speechless.

Standing on the rocky rim and looking down at the crater floor, you have the highest density of wildlife in Africa at your feet. Most notably, a safari in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater gives you one of the best possible chances of seeing the endangered Black Rhino as this protected idyll is one of the few places where they continue to breed and thrive.

Additionally, you may also be lucky enough to see leopards, majestic black-maned lions, and flocks of flamingos.

Facts About Safari in Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater History

Interestingly, the name ‘Ngorongoro’ is onomatopoeic in origin. Maasai cattle herders reportedly gave the crater its name inspired by the sound of their cow-bells ‘ngoro ngoro’. Due to the establishment of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), these cows and their Maasai herdsman can still be seen in the crater making their descent to greener fields or grazing amongst the herds of wildlife.

Maasai People, shared Ecosystem and Culture

While Ngorongoro’s past stretches back to ancient times, the historical backdrop of the Maasai goes back around 200 years when these African pastoralists colonized the region in considerable numbers. Their traditional lifestyle of subsistence farming and cattle farming enables them to live in close proximity to wildlife and in harmony with nature.

This secured area is one-of-a-kind due to its efforts to protect the way of life for both humankind and wildlife. Inside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the Maasai people are allowed to march their cattle alongside the likes of antelope, buffalo, wildebeest, and zebra. No photo could do it justice – some things just have to be enjoyed in the moment and live on in the memory.

Experience Lake Natron & Mount Oldoinyo Lengai Volcano mountain

Literally translated as “The Mountain of God”, Mount Oldoinyo Lengai is revered as sacred by the local Maasai communities. It is apt, then, that as you stand on the summit you could almost be said to be looking directly into the fires of hell, as it overlooks the caldera of Tanzania’s only officially-certified active volcano and the world’s only carbonatite volcano. With an eruption every seven years, smoke billows from the crater as locals are reminded of Lengai’s formidable power.

Climbing Oldoinyo Lengai is a demanding challenge as the rocky, ash-covered slopes are crumbly and unstable, and the ascent is steep. Additionally, the heat can be crippling, which is why it is best to set out early in the morning and aim to reach the summit at sunrise.

Get in Touch to Start Planning Your Ngorongoro Safaris

Ready to start planning? Call us at +255688115564 or email us  to speak with our safari expert and start planning your unforgettable journey to Africa.

Tour ideas to get you dreaming

Serengeti Migration Safari

Serengeti Migration Safari in Tanzania

3 Days Zanzibar Beach Holiday

Zanzibar beach, Zanzibar Archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean

3 DAYS SAFARI

JOINING SAFARI: 3 DAYS SAFARI- TARANGIRE N.P,

4 DAYS SAFARI

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK, NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA, LAKE MANYARA

7 DAYS SAFARI-NATIONAL PARK

SAFARI-SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK, NGORONGORO CONSREVATION