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Ngorongoro Conservation Area

National park

About

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in northern Tanzania, known for its unique blend of wildlife and human habitation. Established in 1959, it spans over 8,292 square kilometers, featuring diverse landscapes such as highland plains, savannas, forests, and volcanic craters. The area is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact caldera, which attracts a wide range of wildlife, including the Big Five: lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino. The conservation area is part of the Serengeti ecosystem, hosting the Great Migration of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles. It also includes archaeological sites like Olduvai Gorge, significant for early human evolution. The Maasai people coexist with wildlife, practicing traditional livestock grazing. The area's biodiversity and cultural significance make it a unique and important conservation site, attracting over 500,000 visitors annually. Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 highlights its global importance for conservation and cultural preservation.