Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area is a protected area and a World Heritage Site located 180 km (110 mi) west of Arusha in the Crater Highlands area of Tanzania. The area is named after Ngorongoro Crater, a large volcanic caldera within the area. The conservation area is administered by the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority, an arm of the Tanzanian government, and its boundaries follow the boundary of the Ngorongoro Division of the Arusha Region.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania is a unique place to visit. It’s a spot where nature and human culture have blended together for centuries. The Maasai people have lived here, herding their cattle, alongside the diverse wildlife. The area was recognized for its importance and was established as a conservation area in 1959. This made it a place where both humans and animals could coexist. But it’s not just the people and wildlife that make Ngorongoro special, there’s also stunning scenery to take in.
Furthermore, Ngorongoro is home to the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. This caldera, or giant crater, is an impressive sight. It spans around 19 kilometers and provides a sanctuary for countless animals. Here, you’ll see lions, elephants, zebras, and even the elusive black rhino. In fact, Ngorongoro Crater is known for its high density of wildlife, making it a must-visit spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Plus, there’s the chance to observe the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo) in their natural habitat.
Humans, Animals, and the Environment,
Finally, a trip to Ngorongoro is not just about the wildlife. This conservation area is also rich in human history. It’s home to Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world. Here, some of the earliest evidence of human ancestors was discovered, adding another layer to Ngorongoro’s charm. Overall, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is more than just a park; it’s a testament to the enduring bond between humans, animals, and the environment. Whether you’re a history buff, a wildlife lover, or a fan of stunning landscapes, there’s something in Ngorongoro for everyone.
The crater in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to more than 25,000 large animals. Among these are black rhinos, African buffaloes, also known as Cape buffaloes, and hippos. Other animals, such as blue wildebeest, Grant’s zebra, common eland, and different types of gazelles like Grant’s and Thomson’s, also live here. Waterbucks are often seen near the Lerai Forest.
Though the crater seems like a natural home for many types of wildlife, it’s interesting that about 20% of wildebeests and half of the zebras leave during the wet season. This is actually the time when these animals are seen the most.
Outside Ngorongoro Crater
The area around Ngorongoro Crater is rich in wildlife. Many animals, including cheetahs and lions, live west of the protected area near Ndutu Lake. You’ll often see hartebeest, spotted hyenas, and jackals in the region. Although it seems the African wild dog population might have shrunk recently. Servals, a type of wild cat, are common west of the Crater.
Every year between December and June, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area hosts a huge migration. About 1.7 million wildebeests, 260,000 zebras, and 470,000 gazelles travel through the area. These animals roam across the plains in search of food, with the exact path changing with the yearly rainfall.
Serengeti National Park
Tarangire National Park
Ngorongoro Conservation
Lake Manyara National Park
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