After a long drive from Manyara, we were finally approaching the Ngorongoro.

Ngorongoro crater. Twelve miles across, two thousand feet deep.

A butterfly at the lodge.

Overlooking the crater. Once again, our lodge was perched on a cliff, to discourage animal visitors.

Tony looking out over the crater at sunset.

Descended into the crater at dawn. Very misty, with elephants rumbling on either side of us.

Zebras near the lip of the crater. Note the imminent thunderstorm. When it strikes later, our road will turn into mud and we will be temporarily stuck in the crater.

These lions were much more interested in each other than in us.

Elephant approaching our land rover to see what is inside. (Photo taken through window.)

Same elephant even closer. (Also taken through window.)

Life is tough in the crater.

This lioness was lounging on the track with her cubs. Note her long, long teeth.

The flamingos were happy about the thunderstorm. We were not so much.

We dashed out of the car to take this photo as the storm began to abate.

This Masaii, dressed in black and painted because of his recent circumcision, was willing to have his picture taken.