Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Quick Fact: The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tanzania, is home to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s largest calderas. This unique ecosystem supports a remarkable concentration of wildlife, including the Big Five, making it a prime destination for safari enthusiasts.
Climate
The climate in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area varies from cool and temperate on the crater rim to warmer conditions in the crater floor. Due to its high elevation, temperatures can drop significantly at night. The area experiences two rainy seasons, from November to December and from March to May, with the rest of the year being relatively dry.
Getting There
Quick Fact: Accessing the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is typically via road from nearby towns such as Arusha or Karatu. Many visitors also arrive as part of organized safari tours from various points in Tanzania. There are no airports within the conservation area itself, but Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) are common entry points for travelers flying into the region.
Attractions
Quick Fact: The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is renowned for its stunning attractions, most notably the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s largest intact calderas. Within the crater, visitors can enjoy unparalleled wildlife viewing, including sightings of the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros). Other attractions in the area include the Olduvai Gorge, known for its significant archaeological discoveries, and the stunning Empakaai Crater with its flamingo-filled lake.
