Welcome to Ngorongoro Lengai UNESCO Global Geopark

Where Earth Tells it’s
Oldest Stories..

Welcome to Ngorongoro Lengai UNESCO Global Geopark

The geopark, located in northeastern Tanzania, received official global geopark status from UNESCO in 2018. UNESCO describes global geoparks as single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development.

At Ngorongoro Lengai Geopark, local and regional partnerships have been formed to promote and conserve not only the geological wonders of the geopark, but also the rich cultural, biological and historical identities of the area. Ngorongoro Lengai Geopark is one of only two global geoparks currently located in Africa (the other is in Morocco) and one of 147 worldwide.

Major Attractions

Ngorongoro Lengai UNESCO Global Geopark is a place where the earth speaks in lava flows, ancient footprints, and the roar of lions across the plains. Our major attractions aren’t just destinations; they are living landscapes, each with a story to tell. From the sacred heights of Mount Lengai to the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater, from the wild heart of our ecosystems to the deep echoes of Olduvai Gorge, every site offers a glimpse into the wonder of our world.

Oldonyo Lengai

Ngorongoro Crater

Geo Wildlife

Oldivai George

Georoutes

Our georoutes are more than just paths; they are journeys through time, winding across breathtaking landscapes shaped by ancient forces. Each step takes you closer to hidden wonders, from volcanic peaks to fossil-rich valleys, revealing the secrets of this incredible geopark. Whether you’re seeking adventure, knowledge, or quiet reflection, these routes invite you to slow down and truly connect with the land. Choose your path, and let the earth guide you.

Caldera Route

This route takes one on a one-day tour along the crest of the Ngorongoro Volcanic Highlands. It starts inside Ngorongoro Crater (or caldera), which is the jewel of Ngorongoro Lengai Geopark. The caldera itself is the largest, intact caldera on earth and is home to breath-taking array of animals and plants.  

The crater also features sites sacred to the area’s resident tribes.  After leaving the caldera, you will pass by Olmoti and Empakaai volcanoes, both of which also have large craters, and Loolmalasin Mt., the third-highest mountain in Tanzania. At the end of the route, you will be rewarded with a view of Oldoinyo Lengai Volcano.

South Route

The South Route explores many different cultural sites in the Geopark. It begins in Karatu, on the southern flank of the Ngorongoro Highlands, and weaves southwest from there to regions on the north and east sides of Lake Eyasi. 

In addition to visiting several different local tribes and an important agricultural area, the route takes you to see the world-famous Laetoli Footprints.

Oldonyo Lengai Route

The Oldoinyo Lengai Route begins in Karatu and heads north along the East African Rift Zone to the Oldoinyo Lengai Volcano, Lake Natron, and lastly to the Engaresero Footprint. 

The route offers amazing views of the rift escarpment, as well as stops at several unusual volcanic features called maars and tufa towers. Two archeological sites and a refreshing waterfall are also visited along this route.

North Route

The route begins from the south entrance of Ngorongoro-Lengai Geopark at Loduare Gate to reach the base of the Gol Mountains at Olkarien Gorge geosite, close to the border of Serengeti. This is a unique safari experience in which the Earth history intimately linked with the human history inside wonderful and unique landscapes.

The safari that will take you back to millions of years of volcanic eruption, creation of calderas, and then the life of our ancestors on Serengeti Plain at Olduvai Gorge and its surroundings.

News & Updates

There’s always something unfolding here; a new discovery, a community milestone, an exciting event, or a moment of natural wonder worth sharing. Our News & Updates section brings you closer to the life of the geopark. Whether it’s scientific findings, conservation efforts, local voices, or visitor stories, this is where you’ll find the latest from the heart of Ngorongoro Lengai.

International Women’s Day 2025

May 30, 2025
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Contacts

  • cc@ncaa.go.tz
  • telephone +255 27 253 7019

  • +255 734 160 015
  • P.O. Box 1, Ngorongoro Crater
Arusha, Tanzania

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