The drive from Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater was not bad at all compared to the drive from Nairobi to Maasai Mara and Maasai Mara to Serengeti. Starting at 8:30 am from Acacia Central Camp, it took us about an hour to reach the Ngorongoro Reservation gate. Upon taking a short rest stop at Ngorongoro Reservation gate, it took us another 3 hours to get to the Ngorongoro Crater. On the drive, we saw the migration of thousands and thousands of wildebeest, zebras, impalas, and gazelles moving from Serengeti to Ngorongoro.
The Ngorongoro Crater was formed 2-3 million years ago by a massive volcanic eruption that caused the entire mountain to collapse, forming a caldera. Over time, rainwater and other natural forces filled the caldera, creating the lush, fertile environment that now supports a wide variety of wildlife. This natural wonder covers an area of about 260 square kilometers (100 square miles), making it very easy to spot all wildlife here.
It's often referred to as the "Garden of Eden" due to its incredible biodiversity and the unique ecosystems that have evolved there. The locals say that it is considered the heaven for wildlife on earth as once they make their way to the crater, they never want to leave. The descent from the rim to the crater offers beautiful views with wildlife all around you.
Most tours get a 1-day pass to be in the Ngorongoro reservation area, so plan your visit accordingly as you have to be out of the reservation area in exactly 24 hours or get another day pass. Our excitement peaked when we spotted our 5th big five, the rhino. Rhinos are very shy animals, and it is very hard to spot them in the massive area of Maasai Mara and Serengeti. To our surprise, we spotted 5-6 rhinos here.
Ngorongoro Crater is home to a significant population of the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. Numerous prides of lions roam the area, making them very easy to find. Elephants and buffalo can be seen grazing across the lush plains, while leopards and rhinos require a bit more patience and luck to spot.
The presence of an alkaline lake in the middle of the crater attracts a multitude of flamingos, painting a surreal scene. The lake’s unique chemical composition provides an ideal habitat for these elegant birds, making their sighting a delightful and unusual experience.
The entire game drive within the Ngorongoro Crater only takes about 4-5 hours, offering ample opportunities to witness the abundant wildlife in their natural surroundings. After an exhilarating day of exploration, we headed to Lions Paw Camp, located at the rim of the crater, for our night stay. Lions Paw offers a unique glamping experience, with luxurious tents and stunning views, especially during sunset when the golden hues descend over the crater, creating an awe-inspiring panorama.
Ngorongoro Crater is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse ecosystems make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you're watching the great migration, spotting the Big Five, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views. Ngorongoro Crater offers an unparalleled encounter with nature's wonders.
The next morning marked our departure day. It was a five-hour drive to Kilimanjaro International Airport, from where we took our flight back to New Jersey. The journey was a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, leaving us with unforgettable memories of the Ngorongoro Crater.
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