After breakfast depart to the Ngorongoro Conservation area with a brief stop at the Oldupai Gorge, one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world to learn on human evolution. We will enjoy an on-site talk on the interpretation of the gorge by the resident guide before continuing your journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Proceed towards the rim of the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater stopping occasionally to admire the breath-taking vista unfolding before you. Arrive for check in, thereafter lunch.
This afternoon just relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the crater, the largest unbroken caldera in the world. It has been described as one of the great natural wonders of the world. Eight million years ago, the Ngorongoro Crater was an active volcano but its cone collapsed, forming the crater that is 610 meters deep, 20 kilometers in diameter, and covers an area of 311 sq. km. Spectacular as it is, the crater accounts for just a tenth of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The crater is home to many species of wild game and birds. With the exception of impala and topi (due to fierce competition with the wildebeest) and the giraffe (because there is not much to eat at tree level), almost every species of African plains mammal lives in the crater, including the endangered black rhino, and a dense population of predators.
The birdlife, which includes the flamingo, is mainly seasonal, and is also affected by the ratio of soda to fresh water in Lake Magadi on the crater floor. Enjoy dinner and overnight at your lodge.
NOTE: Warm jacket/cardigan is highly recommended.
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES:
Visit to an ‘off the beaten’ track Masai Manyatta
This afternoon, you may opt to visit a traditional Maasai Manyatta (off the beaten track) and experience the culture of this world famous community. The Masai still live as they did for centuries -interact with these nomadic people and experience their way of life as you learn about their customs and traditions.