Olduvai Gorge Tanzania Study of Human Evolution

Olduvai Gorge in Tanzania is an important prehistoric site and a key location in the study of human evolution. It is comprised of two dry riverbeds which contain fossilized remains of animals and stone tools used by early humans dating back 1.8 million to 15,000 years.

Olduvai Gorge Tanzania Study of Human Evolution Summary

Attraction Name: Olduvai Gorge
Country: Tanzania
Continent: African
Capital Name: Dodoma
Language: Swahili and ‎English‎ (de facto)‎
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling
Nationality: Tanzanian

Why must you visit Olduvai Gorge Tanzania?

Olduvai Gorge, located in Tanzania, is an important archaeological site that holds clues to the origins of early human species. It is particularly important to human evolution research as it is home to the world’s oldest evidence of human technology and the large number of Stone Age tools discovered here suggest that early humans lived in the area between 1.2 and 1.7 million years ago. For anyone who is interested in the history of human evolution, Olduvai Gorge is an important place to visit.

Tell us about Olduvai Gorge Tanzania

Olduvai Gorge is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world for the study of human evolution. It is located in the Great Rift Valley in northern Tanzania and is part of the Serengeti Plain. It was first discovered by the German archaeologist Louis Leakey, who uncovered some of the earliest evidence of human evolution there. It includes archaeological sites from around 2.1 million years ago and remains of some of the earliest human ancestors, including Homo habilis, Homo erectus, and Homo sapiens.

Olduvai Gorge is also famous for its wealth of fossil remains including that of numerous animals. It is a popular tourist destination due to its immense significance in the history of our species.

What are the things to do in Olduvai Gorge Tanzania?

Olduvai Gorge is an archaeological site most notable for fossil discoveries that have helped to shed light over the origins of our human ancestors. Located in Tanzania, this site is located on the border of Laetoli and has become a notable attraction for the history buffs and paleontology fans. Here are the best things to do in Olduvai Gorge:

Explore the Gorge: It’s one of the most interesting places to visit in the area and you can explore the wide open spaces to get a closer look at the fascinating archaeological finds. The most iconic findings of the area, the Homo habilis fossils, were first discovered in the area back in 1959, and the Gorge offers up a fascinating insight into the history of life before us.
Visit the Visitor Centre: Located at the nearby Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the Olduvai Visitor Centre offers a great overview of the site’s archaeological significance. Inside, you can find a wealth of interactive displays that provide an introduction to the history of the area.
Join a Guided Tour: Guided tours are available from the Olduvai Visitor Centre and offer an insight into the wildlife and cultural aspects of the area. The tour allows visitors to step inside the sites of the ancient Homo erectus and appreciate the area’s immense archaeological importance.
Visit the Laetoli Archaeological Site: The Laetoli Archaeological Site is located nearby and is where the footprints of the Homo habilis were discovered in 1979. These tracks provide valuable insight into how our ancient ancestors moved around.
Enjoy Ancient Rock Etchings: One of the highlights of visiting Olduvai Gorge is that of exploring the ancient rock etchings that are located nearby. Carved into large blocks of tuff and rock, these etchings appear to be depictions of early human activity and provide a mysterious insight into the patterns of behaviour of our ancestors.
Go for a Hike or Bicycle Ride: The rolling hills and lush green turf of the area makes it a great spot for hiking and cycling. Here, visitors can follow trails and explore the area’s rugged landscapes as they discover why Olduvai Gorge remains popular with visitors.