The Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania is famed for the huge crater which lies within its boundaries. Once a volcano the size of Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro imploded over two million years ago leaving a spectacular crater. Some 16-19km in diameter with walls up to 610m high, the Ngorongoro Crater is high up the list of the most spectacular places to visit whilst on an African safari. Mineral-rich soils cover the flat open bowl, bringing large herds of zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, Grant's gazelle and Thompson's gazelle to feed on the nutritious grasses. Black rhinos are commonly sighted in the open grasslands, and the occasional huge bull elephant can be seen, with some of the longest tusks in Africa.
The Ngorongoro Crater floor has one of the densest concentrations of predators in Africa. The lion population is known for its complete lack of fear of the many vehicles which pass through the area. Don't be surprised if a tired lion seeks shelter right in the shade of your safari vehicle!
The Lerai Forest deep within the Ngorongoro Crater, made up almost exclusively of yellow-barked fever trees, is a popular hiding spot for the area's resident leopards, while hyenas can often be found trying to sneak up on the flamingos feeding in the shallows of Lake Magadi: a fascinating sight for anyone on a safari to Tanzania.
Although there is no accommodation within the Ngorongoro Crater itself, the lodges found on the rim are known for their spectacular views across the crater.
