Ngorongoro Conservation Area Guide

Africa is home to many eccentric and rare animal species and Tanzania in specific is no exception. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is part of the Serengeti ecosystem, along with Serengeti National Park. 

Named after the world’s largest intact and unfilled caldera, the Ngorongoro Crater, it provides a home for Maasai people who live alongside the region’s wildlife.

Interesting Facts about Ngorongoro Conservation Area 

• The area has been home to pastoralist tribes: the Mbulu, the Datooga and most recently, the Maasai, for the past 2000 years.
• For around three million years, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area has been occupied by hominid species. 
• Proved by anthropological discoveries, the Ngorongoro Crater was created by a major volcanic eruption.
• In 1976, the area was established as a sanctuary for wildlife.

Location 

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is located in northern Tanzania. It is 180 kilometers from west of Arusha. 

How to Get to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

By Air

You can fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and then drive to Ngorongoro, 230 kilometers from the airport. The drive is about 5 hours.

Arusha Airport  (ARK) is small, but it is the closest airport to Ngorongoro. You can land in Arusha Airport and then take a 3-hour drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The distance is 170 kilometers. 

By Road

Head to Ngorongoro Conservation Area by road from Nairobi. The distance is 400 kilometers, a 7-8 hour drive. It is not recommended to drive on your own, as it is exhausting. A good alternative is to fly to Nairobi and then take a local flight to Arusha. Afterwards, take a 3-hour drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Best Time to Visit 

Ngorongoro Conservation Area has a subtropical climate. As all regions in East Africa, the area has a dry season and a rainy season. 

The winter dry season lasts from June to August, whereas the summer rainy season lasts from November to April. 

The best time to visit Ngorongoro Conservation Area is all year round, because each season has its advantages and disadvantages. It is better to visit the area during the dry season, if you want the best weather and the best game viewing. 

During December and March, it is the great period to witness the Great Migration. In Summer, impressive numbers of rare migrant birds can be spotted. 

There is a benefit of travelling during the rainy season which is there will be fewer people and lower prices. Besides, a huge number of flamingos are spotted on the region’s soda lakes when the water level is high.

Many travelers include Ngorongoro in their Tanzania tours, combining wildlife safaris, cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes in one unforgettable journey.

Wildlife of Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is residence to an amazing diversity of wildlife such as Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles, wildebeest, zebra and large herds of buffalo. The Ngorongoro Crater alone includes approximately 25,000 large game animals. 

The large number of wildlife gives credit to the crater to be almost the best place in Tanzania to witness the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and black rhino). The crater also supports the left population of black rhino left in the country. 

The grass plains play an annual role during the Great Migration. The plains host approximately two millions of wildebeests, zebras and other antelopes. The abundance of prey is a factor of attracting many different species predators such as cheetah, hyena, lion and the endangered African wild dog.

500 bird species have been spotted in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, 400 can be found in the crater itself. Many of the birds found in the conservation are unique to Tanzania or East Africa, which include endemics  and near-endemics such as the Jackson’s widowbird, the Hartlaub’s turaco and the rufous-tailed weaver. 

The seven East African vulture species are here. Vast flocks of flamingos are represented in Lake Magadi, Lake Ndutu and the Empakai Crater Lake.

Book our 8-day Tanzania Safari Tour and enjoy the best of Tanzania!

Cultural and Local Experiences

Maasai Villages and Traditions

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is not only home to abundant wildlife but also to the Maasai people, who have lived in the region for centuries. Visitors can learn about Maasai traditions, clothing, and pastoral lifestyle, including cattle herding and traditional ceremonies. The Maasai are known for their colorful attire and unique beadwork, which reflects their cultural heritage. Exploring their villages offers a glimpse into a way of life that has been maintained for generations, providing a rich cultural contrast to the area’s natural beauty.

Guided Tours and Community Visits

Many travelers explore the Ngorongoro region through guided cultural tours, which often include visits to local villages, markets, and schools. These tours are designed to be informative and respectful, giving visitors insight into the Maasai community while supporting local livelihoods. Community visits can also include demonstrations of traditional crafts, storytelling, and opportunities to participate in daily activities, making it a meaningful complement to wildlife safaris.

What You Should Know Before Visiting Ngorongoro

Packing Essentials

When visiting Ngorongoro Conservation Area, it’s important to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing, and layers for cooler mornings and evenings. A rain jacket is useful during the wet season, and a small backpack can hold water, snacks, and personal items during safaris.

Health and Safety

Travelers should take precautions such as vaccinations, mosquito repellent, and drinking bottled or purified water. Follow park rules and local guidance during game drives, stay inside vehicles where instructed, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. It’s also recommended to carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary personal medications.

Responsible Tourism Practices

Visitors are encouraged to respect local communities and the environment. Support the Maasai and other local communities by buying handmade crafts or guided tour services, and avoid littering in natural areas. Stay on designated paths, refrain from feeding wildlife, and follow park regulations to help preserve Ngorongoro’s unique ecosystem for future generations.

Discover the wonders of Tanzania with our Tanzania safari tours and African safari tours!

FAQS