Ngorogoro Crater

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Down into Ngorogoro Crater today. 200 square mile collapsed volcanic crater with high concentration of animals. Hippos fighting, lions mating, millions of pink flamingos. Exciting drive 1000 ft down into crater. Later visited Masai village. Circular enclosure with central corral for livestock surrounded by multiple huts- one for each wife. 17 huts and 30 children in village we saw, father 77 years old- don't know how he does it. Huts made of acacia tree limbs and dried cow dung. Barely could fit through entrance into hut. Two sleeping areas and fire in center. No electricity or water. Husband rotates between huts. Visited school where children were learning Masai, Swahili and English. Children 5 - 6 years old spend days herding goats and cattle.

They walk dozens on miles each day with shoes made from motorcycle tires which provide good traction and protect their feet.Watched traditional dances and school lessons and them were hassled to buy trinkets and give money to support education. Paying to go into village is only way to get photos of their brilliant colored dress. Otherwise photos prohibited as they feel you are stealing their image. Masai are seen throughout Ngorogoro herding their livestock.

Staying at great lodge over looking jungle side of crater and coffee plantation. No spiders.....





Tomorrow we drive to Tarangire nation park where elephant herds number in the hundreds. Will stop at Tanzanite shop in village on the way. One more day of safari then on to beach in Zanzibar to relax.

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Comments

[Nancy Martin]

Beautiful Pictures
It looks like you and Jeff are having a great time. Have fun. Nancy

[Cindy]

I love all your pictures. So interesting!! Sounds like every day is so exciting. Linda you look cute in your Safari outfit:)

[Mom]

Impressive!
Following you along and wishing I could be there too. Would love to have seen the Masai villages. Love you and stay safe.