The largest crater in the world is a haven for a remarkable assortment of wildlife. The Ngorongoro site was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1980 because it boasts one of the most marvelous natural phenomena on Earth: a huge crater that acts as a vast natural zoo. Three million years ago, a major eruption devastated the Ngorongoro volcano and the collapse of the cone left the largest caldera in the world – a staggering 12 miles in diameter. Surveying this site is a truly awe-inspiring feeling, one that grows with the discovery of more and more African species of flora and fauna as you approach the bottom of the crater. The reserve contains other less impressive but equally admirable extinct volcanoes as well as two outstanding palaeontological sites in Olduvai and Laetoli. The Ngorongoro Crater – with its lush green plains, woodland trees, and wildflowers – is one of the most popular travel destinations in Tanzania. A stunningly beautiful place, it’s often referred to as the ‘Garden of Eden’. Ngorongoro has been the site of numerous archaeological discoveries over the years, and it’s now one of the best places for the safari in East Africa. Another amazing site is the Olduvai Gorge, a 14km long ravine. To protect this incredible natural wonder, visitor numbers are closely monitored, and you must obtain a permit to enter the crater and the gorge.