Olduvai Gorge
The 'Cradle of Mankind' — a 48km paleoanthropological site in the Serengeti where Louis and Mary Leakey discovered some of the oldest human ancestor fossils ever found.
About This Destination
Olduvai Gorge (also written Oldupai Gorge) is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the world — a 48-kilometre ravine cut by a seasonal stream through the Serengeti Plain, exposing two million years of geological and evolutionary history.
It was here that Louis and Mary Leakey made their landmark discoveries of early human ancestor fossils, including Australopithecus boisei and Homo habilis, revolutionising the understanding of human evolution.
The site is now managed as a museum and research site within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with excellent guided tours explaining the excavation history and the significance of the fossils found here. Most Northern Circuit safari itineraries stop at Olduvai on the drive between the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Destination Highlights
Top Experience
Visit the “Cradle of Mankind”
Cultural Value
Insight into early human evolution
Tour Highlight
Guided museum visit & gorge viewpoint
Safari Add-On
Stop between Serengeti & Ngorongoro
Learning Experience
Fossils, tools & human origins
Vibe
Historical, educational & unique
Best Time to Visit
Year-round; accessible on the Serengeti–Ngorongoro road
Location Map
Photo Gallery
Safari Packages Visiting This Destination
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. We can build a safari around this destination and combine it with nearby parks and accommodation options.
We usually recommend combining this destination with other parks for the best safari flow.
Need Help Planning This Destination?
We can combine this destination with the right parks, accommodation level, and safari length for your trip.