The Eighth Wonder of the World
Ngorongoro Crater is the largest unflooded, intact caldera (collapsed cone of a volcano) in the world. Known as the Eighth Wonder of the World, its vastness and beauty are truly overwhelming; some believe that the crater constitutes the proverbial Garden of Eden. Many scientists suggest that before its eruption, this volcano was larger than Mt. Kilimanjaro. Today, it is part of the 3,200-square-mile (8,288-km²) Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a World Heritage Site characterized by highland plateaus, volcanic mountains, craters, extensive savannah, and forests. Altitudes range from 4,430 to 11,800 feet (1,350 to 3,600 m).
Africa’s Permanent Sanctuary
Ngorongoro contains possibly the largest permanent concentration of wildlife in Africa, with an estimated average of 30,000 large mammals. It is one of the best reserves in East Africa to see black rhino. Unlike the animals in the Serengeti, the resident wildlife here does not need to migrate owing to the permanent source of fresh water, making game viewing exceptional year-round.
The Descent and Crater Floor
The crater is approximately 12 miles (19 km) wide, and its rim rises 1,200 to 1,600 feet (365 to 490 m) above its expansive 102-square-mile (265-km²) floor. The steep descent into the crater along winding roads takes 25 to 35 minutes. The floor is predominantly grasslands, with two swamps fed by streams and the Lerai Forest. While the northern part has a reputation for being crowded, a private vehicle and a great guide can show you lots of wildlife away from other travelers.
Key Landmarks of the Floor
Lake Magadi: Also called Crater Lake and Lake Makar, this shallow soda lake near the western rim attracts thousands of flamingos and water birds. Dirt roads continue past the Mandusi Swamp, where viewing is best in the dry season (July to October).
Water Sources: The route continues over the Munge River—sourced in the Olmoti Crater—to Ngoitokitok Springs and the Gorigor Swamp. The Hippo Pool, fed by the Lonyokie River, is arguably the best place to view hippos.
Lerai Forest: Primarily composed of light-green fever trees (a type of acacia), this forest is a prime spot for elephant, waterbuck, and if you are very lucky, leopard.
Avian Diversity & Picnic Etiquette
Close to 400 bird species have been recorded. On the floor, look for the kori bustard, northern anteater chat, rufous-naped lark, rosy-breasted longclaw, superb starling, and rufous-tailed weaver. In the highlands and forested rim, birdlife includes the augur buzzard, golden-winged sunbird, malachite sunbird, tacazze sunbird, Schalow’s turaco, white-eyed slaty flycatcher, and streaky seedeater.
Traveler's Note: At picnic sites, vervet monkeys are aggressive regarding food. Black and yellow-billed kites often swoop for lunch plates; it is advisable to eat inside your vehicle or under a tarp.
Human Heritage: Coexistence with the Maasai
Since this is a conservation area and not a national park, wildlife, human beings, and livestock cohabit. Ground cultivation is prohibited, but the Maasai are allowed to bring their cattle into the crater for salts and water during the day, provided they exit by nightfall.
Regional Highlights & Adventure
Oldupai Gorge
Located 30 miles (50 km) west of the crater. Site of the 1.75 million-year-old Zinjanthropus boisei fossil found by Dr. Mary Leakey. Features a small museum overlooking the gorge.
Shifting Sands
Crescent-shaped "barchan" dunes made of volcanic ash from Ol Donyo Lengai. These 30-foot-high dunes move an average of 55 feet (17 m) per year across the plains.
Empakaai Crater
Located 20 miles (32 km) northeast. A stunning 5-mile diameter crater with a 1,000-foot descent that takes less than an hour. Offers views of the active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano.
Olmoti & Gol Mountains
Hike to the 10,165-foot Olmoti rim from Nainokanoka village. Further north, explore the Gol Mountains, OlKerian Gorge, and the striking landmark of Nasera Rock.
Luxury Accommodation at Ngorongoro
Staying within the NCA allows earlier access and later exits than those staying outside. Accommodations range from the western to the eastern rim:
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Set on the southwestern rim with 3 separate camps (North, South, and Tree). Stilted luxury suites feature claw-foot bathtubs and private butler service.
The Highlands Ngorongoro
Located on the slopes of Olmoti Crater with dome-shaped suites and wood-burning stoves. Offers Serengeti Lion Project participation and Empakaai hikes.
Entamanu & Lemala Ngorongoro
Entamanu (western rim) offers 6 heated tents with crater views. Lemala (eastern side) features 9 heated tents and a separate dining tent for a classic feel.
Serena & Sopa Lodges
Ngorongoro Serena (western rim) features 75 rooms with private balconies. Ngorongoro Sopa (eastern rim) has 96 rooms and a pool overlooking the crater floor.