Ngorongoro Crater Holiday
Posted on September 28, 2009 with No Comments
The ‘eighth wonder of the world’ gives even the most seasoned traveler an experience of a lifetime. Combining both cultural and scenic elements of Africa, the area that surrounds the Ngorongora Crater boasts dramatic safaris, ancient herdsmen, and breathtaking views that will meet every holiday expectation.
Over 25,000 large animals populate the Ngorongoro Conservation Area including black rhinoceros, lions, leopards, elephants, reedbuck, buffalo, gazelle, and wildebeests. These animals roam the massive volcanic crater of Ngorongoro that covers 102 square miles of grassland. The towering walls of the crater create a naturally enclosed zoo that is also the world’s largest unbroken, unflooded volcanic caldera. This area has also been called the “Cradle of Mankind” because some of the world’s oldest human remains have been found here.
The Maasai people are a must-see while visiting the area. The semi-nomadic, Swahili ethnic group has occupied the Great Rift Valley for millions of years. Maasai warriors can be seen wearing the traditional scarlet cloaks, called shukas, and the people are one of the most distinctive indigenous African ethnic groups because of their tall, muscular build. Cattle are the primary focus of the Maasai culture and the tribe has grazing rights that allow them to roam the crater floor.
Accommodations during you visit are available at one of the three luxury lodges located directly on the rim of the mountain, in the nearby town of Kairufu, or on one of the many beautiful coffee plantations.
Transportation to the area is available from Arusha’s central bus station daily at 10am or from Park Village. It takes seven hours to get to the crater and another hour to reach the bottom of the crater. Expect a park fee upon arrival as well.
Category: Tanzania Adventure Holidays