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Ngorongoro Crater
(Tanzania)
Often called the eighth wonder of the world, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in northern Tanzania boasts a blend of landscapes, wildlife, people and archaeology that is unsurpassed in Africa.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area covers a huge area and includes, alongside its eponymous famous crater, the archaeological site at Olduvai Gorge, and huge expanses of highland plains, scrub bush, and forests that cover approximately 8300 square kilometres. A protected area, only indigenous tribes such as the Masaai are allowed to live within its borders. Lake Ndutu and Masek, both alkaline soda lakes, are home to rich game populations, and surrounded by a series of peaks and volcanoes which create a stunning backdrop, completing the conservation areas unique and beautiful landscape. Of course, the crater itself, actually a type of collapsed volcano called a caldera, is the main attraction. Accommodation is located on its ridges and after a beautiful descent down the crater rim, passing lush rain forest and thick vegetation, the flora opens to grassy plains throughout the crater floor. The game viewing is truly incredible, and the topography and views of the surrounding Crater Highlands out of this world.
This truly magical place is home to Olduvai Gorge, where the Leakeys discovered the hominoid remains of a 1.8 million year old skeleton of Australopithecus boisei, one of the distinct links of the human evolutionary chain. In a small canyon just north of the crater, the Leakeys and their team of international archaeologists unearthed the ruins of at least three distinct hominoid species, and also came upon a complete series of hominoid footprints estimated to be over 3.7 million years old. Evacuated fossils show that the area is one of the oldest sites of hominoid habitation in the world.
The Ngorongoro Crater and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are without a doubt some of the most beautiful parts of Tanzania, steeped in history and teeming with wildlife. Besides vehicle safaris to Ngorongoro Crater, Olduvai Gorge, and surrounding attractions, hiking treks through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area are becoming increasingly popular options. Either way you choose to visit, the Crater Highlands are an unforgettable part of the Tanzanian experience.
Accommodation in Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania)
The Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is located on the edge of Ngorongoro Crater, one of Tanzania's most famous World Heritage Sites.
Gibb's Farm overlooks a coffee plantation and the northern Tanzanian hillsides near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Kirurumu Tented Camp is set high on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, enjoying a marvellous, uplifting and panoramic view eastward over Lake Manyara, the Rift floor and Mt. Losimingori.
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is perched on the jagged rim of the crater
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge sits perched on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, with a stunning view of the crater plains below.
Plantation Lodge is set on a working coffee and arable farm just outside Karatu
At the heart of the northern Tanzania safari circuit, Rhotia Valley Tented Lodge is located halfway between the Rift Valley escarpment and Ngorongoro Gate, three miles from the main Arusha to Karatu road.
Other regions in Tanzania
Arusha National Park is located just outside the city, and encompasses the stunning Mt.Meru, Africa’s fifth highest mountain.
The largest city in Tanzania, Dar es Salaam is a bustling sea port with a great deal to offer to travellers
Gombe is the smallest of Tanzania's national parks, but thanks to the world renowned zoologist Dr Jane Goodall, it is one of the best known.
Located far off the beaten track, Katavi is Africa at its most wild - unadulterated bush settings, spectacular views, and rich wildlife.
Kilimanjaro climbs: dates, prices and information about treks and wilderness routes, Shira, Lemosho, Rongai, Kibo Uhuru and Mweka, from rain forest to the Arctic summit. Gane and Marshall is a dedicated tour operator and a centre of excellence for Kilimanjaro Climbs. Jeremy Gane was the project manager and leader of the Comic Relief 2009 celebrity Kilimanjaro climb.
Lake Manyara National Park occupies a 50km stretch along the base of the 600-metre high Rift Valley escarpment
Mafia Island is a popular beach destination for those looking to relax after a safari.
Mahale Mountains National Park
Mahale Mountains National Park is located in one of the most remote and secluded areas of Tanzania
Mikumi National Park is situated along the northern border of the Selous
Ngorongoro Conservation Area in northern Tanzania boasts a blend of landscapes, wildlife, people and archaeology
Traditionally part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, Pemba is fast becoming a unique destination in its own right.
Ruaha is a remote bastion of spectacular wilderness, undisturbed wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.
Selous is the largest game reserve in Africa and contains some of the greatest concentrations of big game left on earth.
The Serengeti National Park is one of the largest and best game reserves in Africa.
Today, many of the winding streets and high townhouses of old Stone Town remain unchanged and visitors can walk between the sultan’s palace, the House of Wonders, the Portuguese fort and gardens, the merchants’ houses, and the Turkish baths of the old city.
Here ancient Swahili history, culture and hospitality combine with hundreds of miles of endless beaches and the warm Indian Ocean.
Named after the river that flows through the park, Tarangire National Park is one of the lesser known Tanzanian National Parks, giving it a real air of undiscovered Africa.
Zanzibar’s coastline offers some of the best beaches in the world, but sand and surf vary depending on what side of the island you’re on.
Example itineraries in Ngorongoro Crater
Light Mobile Safaris Information
North Tanzania Light Mobile Safari general information. What is included and example costs.
This seven day small group safari is a great option for those who wish to experience the main highlights of northern Tanzania. You will visit the world famous wildlife plains of the Serengeti, the unique Ngorongoro Crater as well as Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks.
This six day small group safari is a great option for those who wish to experience the main highlights of northern Tanzania. You will visit the world famous wildlife plains of the Serengeti, the unique Ngorongoro Crater as well as Lake Manyara National Park.
Ngorongoro Tarangire Manyara Safari Deal
Three Days and Two nights Ngorongoro, Tarangire, & Manyara Safari Deal £532 pp. Minimum group size to run - 2 persons. Singles, couples, small groups welcome. Every Sunday in Safari Seasons
