Ngorongoro is a volcanic crater. The crater is 610-meter-deep, and the floor is around 250 square km. It was formed when a giant volcano exploded and collapsed more than two million years ago. The mix of forest, canyons, grassland, and lakes forms an ideal habitat for many animals and birds. The forest provides shelter for animals like elephants, elands, monkeys and various bird species.

The crater basin is covered by open short grass plains with freshwater lakes and swamps. The area contains over 25,000 large animals also including wildebeests, rhinos, zebras and lions. The Maasai have been occupying the area for a long time and are living in harmony with the environment and wildlife. They continue to practice their ceremonies and wear their colorful blankets and beaded jewelry.