Family Adventure in the Ngorongoro Crater

First Impressions of the Crater

After years of anticipation, our family adventure in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area has finally begun! Leaving behind the familiar streets of London, we embarked on a journey to Tanzania, a land brimming with natural wonders and vibrant cultures. Today marked our arrival and first foray into this breathtaking landscape, and it's safe to say that the reality far exceeded our expectations.


The journey from Kilimanjaro International Airport was smooth, and as we approached the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the landscape began to transform. The air grew crisper, the vegetation lusher, and the anticipation within our family reached fever pitch. Aisha and I exchanged excited glances, while Farah and Imani peered out the windows, their eyes wide with wonder. This was it – the adventure we had all been dreaming of.


Our first official stop was the Ngorongoro Entrance Gate. The sheer scale of the conservation area was immediately apparent. After completing the necessary formalities, we continued our ascent, the road winding its way up to the rim of the crater. With every turn, the views became more spectacular, offering glimpses of the vast plains stretching out before us. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and humility in the face of such natural grandeur.


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

The earth has music for those who listen.

Our first culinary experience was at the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, where we enjoyed a delightful breakfast. The lodge itself is a marvel, seamlessly blending into the landscape with its natural stone and ivy-covered walls. The interior is adorned with African artifacts and frescos, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. As we savored our meal, we were treated to panoramic views of the crater below, a tantalizing preview of the wonders that awaited us. The kids were particularly thrilled, pointing out various landmarks and trying to spot any signs of wildlife.


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


After breakfast, we decided to indulge in a bit of souvenir shopping at The Tanzanite Experience, located within the Serena Lodge. Aisha has always loved gemstones, and Tanzanite, with its unique blue-violet hue, is one of Tanzania's treasures. We learned about the history and properties of this beautiful stone, and Aisha eventually chose a stunning pendant that she will cherish forever. Farah and Imani found some smaller pieces to remind them of our trip.


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


Finally, the moment we had all been waiting for arrived – our descent into the Ngorongoro Crater. As we began our drive down the steep, winding road, the landscape transformed once again. The crater floor is a world unto itself, a microcosm of East African scenery teeming with wildlife. We were immediately greeted by herds of zebras and wildebeest grazing peacefully in the open plains. In the distance, we spotted a family of elephants making their way towards a watering hole.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination in Tanzania.


Our lunch at the Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge was another highlight. Perched on the highest cliff of the crater rim, the lodge offers breathtaking views of the entire area. The architecture is inspired by local African styles, and the spacious rooms provide a comfortable and relaxing environment. As we dined, we watched the sun cast long shadows across the crater floor, creating a magical and unforgettable scene.


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


As the day drew to a close, we made our way to the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, our accommodation for the night. This lodge is renowned for its luxurious amenities and exceptional service, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. Our suite was beautifully decorated with elegant furnishings and offered stunning views of the crater below. We felt like royalty as we settled in, ready to reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.


Discover unparalleled luxury and stunning wildlife views at andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge in Tanzania's breathtaking conservation area.


Before dinner, we took some time to relax and unwind. Aisha enjoyed a herbal massage at the lodge, while I browsed the African wildlife library. The kids were content to simply sit on the balcony, watching the stars begin to appear in the night sky. It was a perfect moment of peace and tranquility, a reminder of the beauty and serenity of nature.


Our first day in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area culminated in a memorable dinner at the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. The dining experience was exquisite, with a menu featuring both traditional Maasai fare and international cuisine. The atmosphere was relaxed and candle-lit, and the service was impeccable. As we savored each dish, we shared stories and laughter, reliving the highlights of the day.


As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Today has been an extraordinary experience, a testament to the beauty and wonder of the natural world. I am so grateful to be able to share this adventure with my family, to witness their joy and excitement as they discover the magic of Ngorongoro. We are all looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to explore the Lerai Forest NCA and the Viewpoint, Ngorongoro Crater. And perhaps, if we are lucky, we'll have a drink at the Ngorongoro Lions Paw by Karibu Camps & Lodges.


Tonight, as I drift off to sleep, I will dream of the Ngorongoro Crater, of the wildlife that roams its plains, and of the memories we are creating as a family. This is just the beginning of our Tanzanian adventure, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.