Miliwe Tours & Travel
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Destination details
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a renowned tourist destination in Tanzania, located in the northern part of the country. It covers an area of 8,292 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the “Big Five” animals, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
History of the Park
The area has a rich history and significance, and its conservation efforts play a vital role in protecting the region’s wildlife and natural resources. Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of Tanzania’s oldest conservation areas, established in 1959. The area was initially created to protect the wildlife and prevent hunting activities. Since then, the area has become a crucial wildlife conservation area that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area was once part of the Serengeti National Park. In the early 1950s, the Maasai people, who had been living in the area for centuries, were relocated to the outskirts of the park to create a protected area. In 1959, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area was officially established, and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979.
Significance of the Park
The conservation area is significant for its ecological and cultural significance. The area’s ecosystem is vital to the survival of several endangered and threatened species, including elephants, lions, leopards, and black rhinos. It is also home to over 500 species of birds, making it a top destination for bird watchers. Additionally, the area’s natural resources, including water and grazing land, are essential to the livelihoods of the Maasai people who live adjacent to the park.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area plays a vital role in Tanzania’s cultural heritage, and its conservation efforts are crucial to protecting the region’s wildlife and natural resources for future generations. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing Tanzania’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Location and geography
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is located in northern Tanzania, approximately 180 kilometers west of Arusha. It’s situated between the Serengeti National Park and Lake Manyara National Park.
Size and boundaries of the conservation area
The conservation area covers an area of 8,292 square kilometers and includes the Ngorongoro Crater, the Olduvai Gorge, and several other prominent landmarks. The area is bordered by the Serengeti National Park to the northwest, and the Lake Natron Game Reserve to the northeast.
Geography of the conservation area
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is known for its stunning landscape, which includes the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater. The crater is a massive caldera formed by a collapsed volcano and is home to a diverse range of wildlife.
Wildlife In Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the “Big Five.” The conservation area is also home to many species of antelopes, such as impalas, gazelles, and elands.
The "Big Five" Animals In The Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to all of the “Big Five” animals, including lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes. The area is known for its large herds of buffaloes and elephants, and it’s one of the best places in Tanzania to view rhinos.
Other notable animals In the Conservation Area
Aside from the “Big Five,” the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to many other notable animals, including cheetahs, hyenas, zebras, giraffes, and hippos. The area is also home to many species of birds, such as flamingos, pelicans, and storks.
Efforts to protect the wildlife in the conservation area
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a critical conservation area that is home to several endangered species, including black rhinos and wild dogs. To preserve the park’s biodiversity and protect its wildlife, several conservation initiatives are in place.
Partnerships with local communities
Ngorongoro Conservation Area has partnered with local communities surrounding the park to encourage their participation in conservation efforts. The park provides employment opportunities to local communities, which has reduced their dependence on poaching and other illegal activities that pose a threat to the park’s wildlife.
Anti-poaching campaigns
Poaching is a significant threat to wildlife in the park. To combat poaching, the park has implemented anti-poaching campaigns that involve the deployment of anti-poaching rangers, sniffer dogs, and aerial surveillance. These measures have helped to reduce poaching incidents and improve wildlife protection.
Research projects in the Park
Research projects in the park are essential for understanding the park’s ecology and the behavior of its wildlife. Some of the ongoing research projects in the park include wildlife monitoring, predator-prey dynamics, and studies on the park’s plant and bird life. The results of these studies help to inform conservation policies and initiatives in the park.
Activities And attractions
Safari tours and game drives
Safari tours and game drives are the most popular activities in Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Visitors can choose from various safari packages, including day and multi-day tours that allow them to explore the park and spot its wildlife. Game drives are usually conducted in open safari vehicles, and visitors can witness the park’s wildlife up close.
Walking safaris
Walking safaris are ideal for visitors who want to explore the park on foot. Walking safaris allow visitors to experience the park’s ecosystem up close and to witness its smaller inhabitants, such as birds, insects, and plants. Walking safaris are usually conducted in small groups and led by experienced guides.
Cultural visits to maasai villages
Visitors to the park can also visit Maasai villages located near the park. The Maasai people are one of Tanzania’s indigenous tribes, and visitors can learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life.
Hiking and trekking
For visitors who enjoy outdoor activities, hiking and trekking are great options. The park has several hiking trails that offer scenic views of the park’s landscape and wildlife. Visitors can also opt for multi-day treks that take them through different parts of the park.
Other recreational activities
Other recreational activities in the park include birdwatching, photography, and picnicking. The park has designated picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the beauty of the park. Visitors can also enjoy guided nature walks, which offer an opportunity to learn about the park’s flora and fauna.
Optional
One popular accommodation option in Ngorongoro Conservation Area is the lodges. These lodges offer a luxurious and comfortable stay in the middle of the wildlife reserve. They provide amenities such as swimming pools, spa services, and on-site restaurants. Some of the popular lodges include Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, and Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge.