NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA . . . News!
Dry season
slowly took hold over the month of June and by early July any sign of rain
disappeared from Ngorongoro.
The greens faded to silvery beige
and once again the dark trunks of the many species of acacias found here,
stand out in dark relief.
All the views from the rim are breathtaking but when on the northern and eastern
sides, the outstanding views of 'Oldoinyo Lengai',
Maasai Mountain of God, are unforgettably
beautiful.
Across The Great Rift Valley, when
the light is right, Kilimanjaro
can be seen, a perfect site for camping.
The forest is a mix of Fig, Crotons, Acacia and
Hagenia to name a few. Flowers abound even in the dry season
and sunbirds, turacos and Sykes Monkeys
are always seen there.
Nights can be cold there at this time of the year as it is our winter, but
swirling mists early in the mornings give way to sparkling
days and magnificent vistas for as far as the eye can see.
Here, 3000 metres above the crater floor, far can be very far indeed.
Ngorongoro Crater is also a sight
not to be missed at this time of year.
Lake Makat
which is almost in the middle of the crater floor, is edged with a white
soda crust as the lake dries up. Towering
dust devils skip across the many animal tracks embossed along
the shoreline and jackals living
on or near the soda crust are bleached blond in contrast with their neighbours
living further away which have much more colour in their coats.
The marshes and swamps abound with
life as most animals eventually come to drink at sometime during the day.
A excellent refuge for the huge elephants
which inhabit the crater, a watery paradise for the
hippo population and perfect hunting ground for lions.
Just two of the highlights of dry season in The
Ngorongoro Conservation Area and just two of the many and varied
places for the lucky visitor to enjoy.
First visitors quickly become returning
visitors, we welcome you back.
July - August 2003
