Ngorongoro Conservation Area Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Ngorongoro Conservation Area with this comprehensive guide, including places to visit, hiking routes, food and drink scene, accommodation options, local culture and customs, and safety and health tips.


Introduction to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited tourist destinations in Tanzania. Located in Northeast Tanzania, the conservation area covers over 8,000 square kilometers, including the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater, the Empakai Crater, the Olduvai Gorge, and the Olmoti and Embagai craters. The area is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and the endangered black rhinoceros. Visitors can explore the area’s natural and cultural attractions, including museums, historical sites, and traditional Maasai homesteads.

List of Places to Visit in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Olduvai Gorge: This site is one of the world’s most important archaeological discoveries and the birthplace of humanity. Visitors can see ancient hominid fossils, stone tools, and animal bones.
  • Laetoli Footprints: Discovered in 1976, these 3.6 million-year-old footprints provide critical evidence of early human history and their bipedal abilities.
  • The Maasai Village: Visitors can learn about the Maasai culture, their traditional way of life, and participate in cultural activities such as dancing and spear-throwing.

Natural Attractions of Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ngorongoro Crater: The world’s largest unbroken caldera, this natural wonder is home to a wide range of wildlife and bird species, including flamingos, zebras, wildebeests, and hyenas.
  • Empakai Crater: A deep freshwater crater lake, surrounded by dense forest and inhabited by buffalos, hyenas, and leopards.
  • Olmoti and Embagai Craters: These two craters offer scenic views of the area and provide opportunities for hiking and bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in Tanzania. These include:

  • Ngorongoro Crater Rim Hike: This hike takes approximately six hours and offers stunning views of the crater floor.
  • Empakai Crater Hike: This trail takes hikers through dense forest and past the crater lake, offering breathtaking views of the scenery.
  • Olmoti and Embagai hikes: These hikes offer opportunities for bird watching and provide stunning views of the area’s craters.

Best Things to Do in Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Activities and Tours

  • Game Drives: Visitors can take guided game drives through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, providing opportunities to view its diverse wildlife and plant species.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: This unique experience offers stunning views of the area’s landscapes and wildlife from above.
  • Cultural Tours: Visitors can learn about the Maasai culture by visiting their villages, participating in dances, and listening to traditional music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Day 1: Visit the Olduvai Gorge and Laetoli Footprints Day 2: Game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater Day 3: Take a hot air balloon ride Day 4: Hike to the Empakai Crater Day 5: Explore the Maasai Village Day 6: Take a cultural tour of the area Day 7: Hike to Olmoti and Embagai Craters

Food and Drink Scene of Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ugali: A cornmeal dish similar to polenta, often served with stews or vegetables
  • Nyama Choma: Grilled meat, often goat or beef, served with a side of rice or vegetables
  • Chapati: A flatbread served with stews or curry

Local Beverages

  • Tanzanian Coffee: Tanzania is known for producing some of the best coffee in the world, with coffee plantations located in the nearby Arusha region.
  • Banana Beer: A locally brewed beer made with bananas, popular amongst the Maasai.

Where to Stay in Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options available in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, ranging from high-end lodges to budget guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge: Located on the crater rim, this lodge offers stunning views of the area and luxurious accommodations.
  • Ngorongoro Farmhouse: A rustic farmhouse located near the Olmoti and Embagai craters, offering comfortable and affordable rooms.
  • Jambo Rooms: A budget guesthouse located in Karatu, offering clean and comfortable accommodations.

What to Buy in Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Maasai Beaded Jewelry: Handcrafted by Maasai women, these colorful and intricate pieces make for great souvenirs.
  • Tanzanite: A rare gemstone found only in Tanzania, visitors can purchase Tanzanite jewelry at local shops.
  • Coffee: Visitors can bring home locally sourced coffee from the Arusha region.

Local Culture and Customs of Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Maasai people have inhabited the area for centuries and maintain much of their traditional way of life. Visitors should respect their culture and beliefs, dress modestly, and ask for permission before taking photographs.

Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The best time to visit Ngorongoro Conservation Area is between June and September, and December to February, with dry weather and good wildlife viewing opportunities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Do:

  • Dress appropriately, covering shoulders and knees, and wear comfortable shoes for hiking
  • Take a guided tour for a more informative experience
  • Respect the wildlife and keep a safe distance

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the natural environment
  • Touch or feed the animals
  • Take anything from the conservation area, including plants and rocks

Safety and Health

Safety in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Visitors should always be aware of their surroundings, stay on designated trails, and avoid walking alone at night. It is also essential to have a reliable and registered tour operator when taking part in activities such as hiking and game drives.

Health in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Visitors should take precautions, such as getting vaccinations and taking antimalarial medication, before visiting the area. It is also essential to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and stay hydrated.

Getting to Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Ngorongoro Conservation area is accessible by road and air. Visitors can fly into the nearby Arusha airport or take a bus from major cities such as Dar es Salaam or Nairobi. It is recommended to arrange transportation through a reliable tour operator.

Airports Near Ngorongoro Conservation Area

  • Arusha Airport: Approximately a two and a half hour drive from the conservation area.

Bus Stations Near Ngorongoro Conservation Area

  • Dar es Salaam: Approximately 10 hours by bus
  • Nairobi: Approximately 7 hours by bus

Other Options

  • Private car: Visitors can hire a private car with a driver to take them to the conservation area.

How to Get Around in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The best way to get around the conservations area is by 4WD. Visitors can hire a car with a driver from reputable tour operators or participate in a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Serengeti National Park: A nearby national park known for its annual wildebeest migration, located approximately 145 kilometers from Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
  • Lake Manyara National Park: Known for its tree-climbing lions and diverse bird species, located approximately 70 kilometers from Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Conclusion

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Tanzania. From its natural wonders to its cultural attractions, the area offers an unforgettable experience that visitors will cherish for a lifetime. Remember to respect the local culture and wildlife and take necessary health and safety precautions. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can fully explore this beautiful and unique part of Tanzania.

Hand axe from Olduvai Gorge<br/>Over a million years old Hand axe from Olduvai Gorge
Over a million years old Mount Lengai seen from Lake Natron Mount Lengai seen from Lake Natron