Ngorongoro Crater

When is the best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater

The best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater largely depends on the type of experience you want. The dry season from June to October is the peak time for game viewing, as the animals congregate around the water sources, making it easier to spot them. During this period, the weather is typically dry and sunny, and wildlife is more visible, particularly large herds of elephants, zebras, and wildebeest. The dry season is also the best time to see predators like lions and hyenas in action, as they are often hunting for food.

Alternatively, the wet season from November to May offers a quieter and more peaceful experience with fewer tourists. While some areas of the crater may be less accessible due to rain, the landscape becomes lush and green, attracting migratory birds and providing a beautiful backdrop for photography. The wet season also marks the calving season for many herbivores, providing an opportunity to witness newborn animals in the crater. For those who prefer to avoid the crowds but still want to enjoy the park’s incredible wildlife, the shoulder months of April and May or November can be ideal for a quieter safari.

Weather and Climate in Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater experiences a temperate climate due to its high altitude, which ranges between 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) and 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) above sea level. The temperatures tend to be cooler than other areas of Tanzania, with daytime highs averaging between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while the nights can be chilly, especially during the dry season. Mornings are often crisp, and visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures early in the day.

The wet season runs from November to May, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between March and May. This period transforms the crater into a lush green paradise, with blooming flowers and vibrant vegetation. The rain showers are typically short and intense, often falling in the afternoon or evening, so visitors can still enjoy safaris during the day. In contrast, the dry season from June to October sees much less rain, with sunny days and cooler evenings. The lack of rain during the dry season makes wildlife viewing easier, as animals gather around water sources.

Why visit Ngorongoro Crater?

Ngorongoro Crater is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and exceptional wildlife experience. Its incredible biodiversity and stunning scenery make it one of Africa’s most famous and sought-after safari destinations. Visitors to the crater are likely to encounter the “Big Five” in a concentrated area, including the rare black rhino, making it one of the best places in the world to see these animals. The opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat within such a compact space makes it a photographer’s paradise, and the landscape itself offers awe-inspiring vistas.

The crater is also home to a vibrant mix of ecosystems, from savannahs to lush forests and wetlands, which attract a variety of wildlife, including flamingos and other bird species. It’s also one of the few places where visitors can see large populations of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelles all living together in a relatively small area. The Ngorongoro Crater offers a rich and immersive safari experience that is unparalleled in its diversity and beauty.

Reasons to visit Ngorongoro Crater:

• The Big Five: The crater is one of the best places in Africa to see all five of the Big Five animals in one location.
• Black Rhinos: Ngorongoro is one of the few places where visitors can spot the endangered black rhino.
• Diverse Wildlife: The crater is home to a wide variety of species, including wildebeest, zebras, hyenas, and over 500 species of birds.
• Stunning Landscapes: The breathtaking views of the caldera and surrounding highlands provide a unique and unforgettable safari backdrop.
• Compact Safari Experience: The concentration of wildlife in the crater makes it ideal for game viewing, with animals often close to each other.
• Birdwatching: The crater is a haven for birders, with numerous species of birds found in the wetlands and grassy plains.

Things To Do in Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater offers a wide range of exciting activities for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The most popular activity is a game drive, where visitors can explore the crater floor and observe a vast array of animals, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. The crater is one of the few places where you can see such a high concentration of wildlife in such a small area, making it ideal for photography and wildlife watching.

Another popular activity is visiting the Ngorongoro Crater Rim, where you can take in stunning panoramic views of the caldera and surrounding highlands. Guided walking safaris along the crater rim or in the nearby Ngorongoro Conservation Area provide an immersive way to explore the region’s ecosystems and learn about its flora and fauna. For birdwatching enthusiasts, the crater’s wetlands and grasslands offer prime opportunities to spot a wide variety of bird species, including flamingos and other waterfowl.

Top Activities and Things to Do in Ngorongoro Crater:

• Game Drives: Explore the crater floor and spot wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, zebras, and more.
• Ngorongoro Crater Rim Views: Take in breathtaking views of the caldera from the crater rim.
• Walking Safaris: Join a guided walking safari along the crater rim or nearby conservation areas to learn about the environment.
• Birdwatching: Enjoy the rich birdlife in the crater, including flamingos, hornbills, and other species.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby Maasai villages to learn about the traditional lifestyle of the indigenous Maasai people.
• Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife in the crater, perfect for a memorable safari experience.

How to Get to Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is easily accessible from both Arusha and the Serengeti National Park, making it an integral part of Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. The crater is located about 190 kilometers (118 miles) west of Arusha, and the journey typically takes around 4-5 hours by road. Visitors can also take a guided safari tour, which often includes transportation from Arusha or other nearby locations.

Alternatively, you can fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and drive to the crater. Several airstrips near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, such as the Manyara Airstrip or Ngorongoro Crater Airstrip, also offer charter flights for those looking to shorten the journey and enjoy more time in the park.

Ways to Get to Ngorongoro Crater:

• By Road (Self-Drive): Rent a car and drive from Arusha or the Serengeti; the journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.
• Guided Safari Tours: Join a guided safari that includes transportation to and from the crater.
• By Air (Charter Flight): Take a charter flight from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Ngorongoro Crater Airstrip or Manyara Airstrip.
• Combination of Flight and Road: Fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport and then drive to the crater.

Where to Stay when visiting Ngorongoro Crater

There are a variety of accommodation options near Ngorongoro Crater, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious lodges that offer spectacular views of the crater and surrounding landscapes. For those seeking a closer connection to nature, there are campsites and tented camps, offering comfortable yet rustic experiences. Mid-range lodges provide a balance of comfort and affordability, while luxury lodges offer exclusive experiences with panoramic views, fine dining, and exceptional service.

Staying near the crater rim provides the convenience of early morning game drives and easy access to the crater floor. Whether you choose a budget-friendly or luxury experience, accommodation around Ngorongoro Crater ensures you’re close to one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders.

Accommodation Options near Ngorongoro Crater:

• Budget: Ngorongoro Simba Campsite – A comfortable and affordable campsite located near the crater, offering tented accommodation.
• Mid-Range: Ngorongoro Farm House – A charming lodge offering comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of the crater.
• Luxury: &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge – A high-end lodge offering luxurious suites with breathtaking views of the crater, exceptional service, and world-class amenities.