16.2.2025: Safari in the Ngorongoro - Crater.
Today we visit the famous Ngorongoro crater, a huge Caldera with an incredible density of wild animals.
First it goes up to the crater rim, with a wonderful view place.
Wilfried and Lorli are enthusiastic.
Now we drive along the upper rim of the crater about 1/3 of the circumference; here, in between we reach an altitude of 2.400 m asl. The descent road to the crater was plastered a few years ago, so it is no more washed out during rain season.
First impression on the crater floor: Gnus in abundance
The central crater lake is rather large at the moment due to recent rain; it is populated by numerous flamingoes.
Crater lake
Zebras come to drink
Flamingoes
Zebras
A lion walking
The surrounding animals take care, ...
... especialy this buffalo. He however knows, ...
... that only 3 lions are not dangerous for him and his fellows. More lions are needed.
But they are alarmed a bit.
Two Elephant bulls.
Crown crane
Thomson gazelle, a bit wet from a short rain shower
The shower is drawing off at this pond, where we stop for lunch.
Guinea fowls are interested in this place, looking for some wasted food.
Hippoes in the water, but very distant, so I have to zoom in maximally (600 mm) and put the camera on the lunch bag places of the lunch table.
A group in midst the pond, they seem to be interested in each other in some way.
Diving away at times.
Three visible animals at least, it seems
Guinea fowl
Once more the pond.
A huge herd of buffalos and numerous cow egrets.
A hyena walking around. There must be something on the way nearby ...
... and indeed: we find a big familiy of lions with 10 animals at least.
This lioness is sprawling in the grass.
This one laying around on the road.
The chief of the clan is watching his prey, a buffalo largely gnawed off.
At least, he leaves the table for the ladies.
But it seems they need some time to realize that the prey is free now.
I don´t mind those many safari cars
Buffalo and cow egret.
In the evening, we are just in time back in our accomodation at Lake Manyara.
Evening at Lake Manyara
