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Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Introduction

Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa's most iconic natural wonders and home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo). Located in northern Tanzania, this vast volcanic crater has been a source of fascination for scientists, explorers, and tourists alike since ancient times. The crater is also an important habitat for numerous species of flora and fauna.

Key Facts

  • Location: Ngorongoro Crater is situated about 220 kilometers (137 miles) northwest of the city of Arusha.
  • Size: The crater has a diameter of approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles).
  • Depth: It reaches an average depth of 180 meters (590 feet), with some areas reaching as deep as 600 meters (1,969 feet).
  • Age: The crater is estimated to be around 2 million years old.
  • Volcanic origin: Ngorongoro Crater was formed by the collapse of a volcanic mountain, creating a caldera that eventually filled with soil and rock.

Historical Context

Ngorongoro Crater has been home to various cultures throughout history. The first recorded mention of the crater dates back to 1000 AD by Arab explorers, who referred to it as "Nagrohongo". In the late 19th century, European settlers began to explore and map the area.

Significant Contributions

  • Cultural significance: Ngorongoro Crater holds great cultural importance for local communities, providing a unique habitat for various wildlife species.
  • Scientific research: The crater has been an important location for scientific studies on ecology, conservation biology, and geology.
  • Tourism development: The crater's natural beauty and biodiversity make it a popular tourist destination.

Notable Attractions

  • Ngorongoro Conservation Area: A protected area that encompasses the entire crater and surrounding areas.
  • Olduvai Gorge: An ancient archaeological site located near the crater, famous for its fossil evidence of early human evolution.
  • Mkalla Bay: A scenic coastal area on the rim of the crater, offering stunning views of Lake Victoria.

Olduvai Gorge

Description

Olduvai Gorge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's most significant archaeological sites. The gorge was formed around 2 million years ago by the erosion of volcanic rocks.

Fossil discoveries

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  • Keywords: Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania, wiki, history, attractions, facts
  • URL: https://worldbestplaces.com/places/ngorongoro_crater_tanzania