One of the most visited and extraordinarily impressive attractions in Tanzania is Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is listed as an International Biosphere Reserve and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting a remarkable blend of wildlife, archaeology, geography and people. So what makes it so in demand? Here are the top 8 surreal facts about Ngorongoro — all are great reasons as to why a visit to this magical land is a highlight to any trip!

A caldera is a large bowl-shaped depression formed after a powerful volcanic explosion which causes a volcano to cave in like a sinkhole. On earth, there are only a couple of calderas present and about 20 super volcanoes recognized. What makes Ngorongoro Crater special is that it is the world’s largest fully intact caldera that hasn’t yet turned into a lake making it the eighth wonder of the world. Covering 100 sq. mi (260 sq. km), Ngorongoro Crater features lush landscapes and impressive wildlife viewing which accounts for its moniker as Africa’s Garden of Eden.

Everyone knows that the highest peak in Africa is Mount Kilimanjaro. But did you know that about three million years ago, Ngorongoro Crater was once a massive supervolcano that stood higher and mightier than its neighbor, Mount Kilimanjaro? The mountain’s slopes were so vast that they had their own water flow and weather patterns. One day, it erupted violently, enraged. Its ferocious eruption made an implosion, creating a vast caldera that’s 2,000 feet deep.

After a million years, the caldera began to procure life. Water filled its cavity, but not to the point of creating a lake or some sort. It caused vegetation to develop and prosper over the years and as time passed by, wildlife discovered its glory. Abundant water and grasses attracted countless of species and due to its enclosed terrain plus its sheer sustenance, many animals would never leave.