Olduvai Gorge is a deep ravine located in the eastern Serengeti Plains in Arusha, Tanzania. It is one of the most important sites for the study of human evolution and prehistory. The gorge is often referred to as “The Cradle of Mankind”, as it is here that the first evidence of human ancestors was discovered. It is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history of human evolution. Here are 10 things to do in Olduvai Gorge.
1. Visit the Olduvai Gorge Museum: The Olduvai Gorge Museum is located near the entrance of the gorge and provides visitors with an in-depth look into the history and science of human evolution. The museum is home to a variety of artifacts and fossils, including the famous “Zinjanthropus” skull and the “Homo habilis” skull.
2. Take a Tour of the Gorge: A guided tour of the gorge is a great way to learn more about the history of the area and the importance of Olduvai Gorge in the study of human evolution. Tour guides will be able to provide you with information about the various sites within the gorge, including the Laetoli Footprints, which are the oldest known hominid footprints in the world.
3. Visit the Laetoli Footprints: The Laetoli Footprints are the oldest known hominid footprints in the world. They were discovered in the Olduvai Gorge and date back 3.6 million years. The footprints were made by two individuals who were walking side by side.
4. Go Hiking: Olduvai Gorge is a great place to go for a hike. There are several trails that traverse the gorge, including the Olduvai Gorge Trail and the Laetoli Footprints Trail.
5. Visit an Archaeological Dig Site: Olduvai Gorge is home to several archaeological dig sites. Visitors can observe archaeologists as they uncover artifacts and fossils from the area.
6. Camping: Olduvai Gorge is a great place to go camping. There are several campsites located within the gorge, including the Olduvai Gorge Campsite and the Laetoli Footprints Campsite.
7. Wildlife Viewing: Olduvai Gorge is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, zebras, and gazelles. Visitors can observe these animals from the safety of their car or from a guided safari.
8. Birdwatching: Olduvai Gorge is home to a variety of bird species, including the African Fish Eagle, the Grey-Crowned Crane, and the Nubian Vulture.
9. Visit the Olduvai Gorge Research Centre: The Olduvai Gorge Research Centre is located near the entrance of the gorge and provides visitors with an in-depth look into the history and science of human evolution. The centre is home to a variety of artifacts and fossils, including the famous “Zinjanthropus” skull and the “Homo habilis” skull.
10. Visit the Olduvai Gorge Prehistoric Site: The Olduvai Gorge Prehistoric Site is located near the entrance of the gorge and provides visitors with an in-depth look into the history and science of human evolution. The site is home to a variety of artifacts and fossils, including the famous “Zinjanthropus” skull and the “Homo habilis” skull. Visitors can also observe archaeologists as they uncover artifacts and fossils from the area.