About 42 000 Maasai pastoralists inhabit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, tending their herds of cattle, sheep and goats, and living in peaceful co-existence with the wildlife. Grazing of livestock on the Crater floor is not permitted except under exceptional circumstances.

Visits to local Maasai villages are recommended, thus increasing the local revenue received through tourism. The lodge purchases a significant portion of its goods and services from the Maasai community. Local people have had the opportunity to learn new skills such as carving, building, weaving and ironmongery from professionals at Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. Employment opportunities have also been provided.

Our guests play a critical role in helping us realise our dream and our vision. You are our future ambassadors, the meeting place between Africa and the world. You are the engine that drives our dream of advancing the green and wild frontiers of the oldest continent on earth, of helping us to permanently re-establish our planet's endangered species and wild places.