Family Adventure in Ngorongoro Conservation Area

A Dream Begins

Today marked the beginning of our family's long-awaited adventure in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. After years of dreaming and planning, stepping onto Tanzanian soil felt surreal. The air was warm and carried the scent of the African wilderness, a stark contrast to the crisp air of Toronto we left behind. I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for the days to come.

The journey from Kilimanjaro International Airport was a scenic one, offering glimpses of the vast landscapes that Tanzania is known for. Habibullah and Farzana were just as captivated as I was, their eyes glued to the windows as we drove towards our destination. The anticipation was palpable, a shared excitement that only a family adventure can bring. We flew from Toronto to Kilimanjaro International Airport, and then took a scenic drive to the Ngorongoro Entrance Gate.
Our first stop was the Ngorongoro Entrance Gate. The process was a bit slow, with a bit of a queue of safari vehicles, but the friendly faces of the park staff and the sheer excitement of being there made it all worthwhile. As we passed through, a sense of entering another world washed over us. The landscape transformed, and the air grew crisp and clean. It was a moment of transition, leaving behind the familiar and embracing the unknown.


Explore the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes, just beyond the Ngorongoro Entrance Gate.

Sometimes, the greatest journeys are those taken with the ones you love, sharing moments that etch themselves into the heart forever.

Our first culinary experience was at the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, where we enjoyed a delightful breakfast. The lodge itself was stunning, perched on the rim of the crater, offering panoramic views that stretched as far as the eye could see. The breakfast buffet was a feast for the senses, with a variety of options that catered to every palate. From fresh fruits to local delicacies, it was the perfect way to fuel up for the day's adventures. I was glad to start the day with breakfast at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge.

Experience unparalleled luxury amidst breathtaking views at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge in Tanzania’s iconic crater.

After breakfast, we made our way to the Ngorongoro Crater Viewpoint. The view was simply breathtaking. The vast expanse of the crater unfolded before us, a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. I spotted a variety of animals, including elephants, zebras, and wildebeest, grazing peacefully on the crater floor. The sheer scale of the landscape was humbling, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature. The Ngorongoro Crater ViewPoint offered a breathtaking window into the heart of one of Africa's most incredible natural wonders. The scenery from the viewpoint is a vibrant mix of lush green plains, shimmering lake surfaces, and dense forest patches.


Explore the stunning Ngorongoro Crater ViewPoint, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its breathtaking wildlife and geological beauty.

Next on our itinerary was Lerai Forest. This serene forest is renowned for its rich biodiversity, featuring towering trees, lush undergrowth, and a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife. It was a welcome change of scenery, a chance to immerse ourselves in the tranquility of the African woodland. As we walked along the winding trails, we spotted monkeys swinging through the trees and colorful birds flitting about. The air was filled with the sounds of nature, a symphony of chirps, rustles, and whispers. The forest is particularly famous for its stunning acacia trees, which provide a picturesque backdrop, especially at sunrise and sunset. Lerai Forest is a Masai word referring to the tall yellow barked acacias. The trees in this forest are stripped off of their barks by the elephants.

Explore the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife of Lerai Forest NCA in Ngorongoro, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventurous travelers.

For lunch, we had the pleasure of dining at The Highlands, Ngorongoro. The camp combines striking contemporary design with the rich traditions of the Maasai. The setting was intimate and exclusive, nestled high on the slopes of the Olmoti Volcano. The food was exquisite, a fusion of international flavors and local ingredients. It was a culinary experience that delighted our senses and left us feeling refreshed and invigorated. The Highlands reimagines the traditional safari camp with its distinctive domed suites inspired by the shape of traditional Maasai bomas. It offers exclusivity and intimacy with nature, along with access to both the Ngorongoro Crater and more remote landscapes.


Experience luxury and nature intertwined at The Highlands in Ngorongoro - your gateway to Tanzania's incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes.

In the late afternoon, we visited The Tanzanite Experience at the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge. It was an interesting diversion, learning about the history and allure of this rare gemstone. While I'm not usually one for shopping on trips like these, Farzana was captivated by the beautiful stones and ended up purchasing a small pendant as a memento of our trip.


Discover the mesmerizing beauty of Tanzanite at The Tanzanite Experience, set against the stunning backdrop of Ngorongoro Crater.

As the day drew to a close, we settled in for dinner at the Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge. The lodge was perched on the rim of the crater, offering breathtaking views of the setting sun. The vast public rooms are extraordinarily spacious, with an inviting lounge and lobby decorated with indigenous sculptures and carved wooden columns. The Lemala Hill Restaurant caters to all tastes and fancies, as does the aptly-named Crater View Bar—both of which feature those huge windows overlooking the great crater's verdant floor. The food was delicious, a hearty meal that satisfied our hunger after a long day of exploration. As we ate, we recounted our favorite moments from the day, laughing and sharing stories. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day. The lodge sits on the rim's highest point, looking 1,600 feet down to the 100 square-mile, animal-thronged caldera of the once-fiery, now sublimely peaceful, volcano.


Discover unparalleled views and rich wildlife at Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, your gateway to Tanzania's stunning Ngorongoro Crater.

As I reflect on our first day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience this incredible place with my family. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area has already exceeded my expectations, and I am eager to see what tomorrow holds. We have an early start planned for a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater itself, a chance to get up close and personal with the wildlife that calls this place home. I'm especially excited about the possibility of spotting the elusive black rhino and learning more about the Maasai culture. I hope to find some unique crafts there. I know that tomorrow will bring even more unforgettable experiences, and I can't wait to share them with you all. I am also happy that I remembered to bring my camera, sunscreen, hat and comfortable walking shoes, but I am kicking myself for forgetting insect repellent and an extra memory card for the camera.
December in Ngorongoro means mild temperatures with average highs around 68°F and lows around 50°F. There's also a good chance of rain, so packing accordingly is key. Despite the possibility of showers, the landscape is lush and green, making for stunning scenery. Plus, the wildlife viewing is excellent year-round, so we're in for a treat.