About Entamanu Ngorongoro
Entamanu Ngorongoro is set in an isolated, scenic spot high on the crater rim.
The drive in, along relatively poor roads, can take up to an hour and a half, but there's very often the bonus of giraffe (a species that is absent from the crater itself) to be seen en route, and the final approach into a grove of massive acacia trees, drooping with hanging moss, is impressive.
A stylish, relaxed camp with excellent service, Entamanu is an excellent choice on the Ngorongoro Crater rim. If you're looking for a quality camp, and you want to have views of the crater floor and beyond, we think this is a unique alternative to the larger properties.
Our view
A stylish, relaxed camp with excellent service, Entamanu is an excellent choice on the Ngorongoro Crater rim. If you're looking for a quality camp, and you want to have views of the crater floor and beyond, we think this is a unique alternative to the larger properties.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
7 tents
Children
OK for 8+ years old
Open
1st June to 30th March
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Entamanu Ngorongoro
30 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 44 pictures and 1 videos of Entamanu Ngorongoro to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Entamanu Ngorongoro
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Fringe-eared Oryx Fly-in Safari
7 days • 3 locations • 1 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Stay in three superbly positioned camps during this exploration of Tanzania’s famous northern circuit. Excellent views over the surrounding areas, relatively remote locations and game-rich habitat make for an exciting and varied safari experience.
Visiting Serengeti, Tarangire and 1 other area
US$7,300 - US$14,860 per person
Regal Sunbird Fly-in Safari
12 days • 5 locations • 2 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Experience the highlights of Tanzania with a safari in the country’s famous northern parks followed by historic Stone Town and the palm-fringed beaches of Zanzibar, staying in high-quality accommodation throughout.
Visiting Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and 3 other areas
US$10,570 - US$16,370 per person
Entamanu Ngorongoro: Our full report
Entamanu Ngorongoro is set in an isolated, scenic spot high on the crater rim.
The drive in, along relatively poor roads, can take up to an hour and a half, but there's very often the bonus of giraffe (a species that is absent from the crater itself) to be seen en route, and the final approach into a grove of massive acacia trees, drooping with hanging moss, is impressive.
When we last stayed at Entamanu, it was clear that the lodge had established itself as one of the top accommodation options on the crater ridge. Its sister properties include some of the best camps in Tanzania, including the excellent Lamai Serengeti, unique Greystoke, and remote Chada, and the same excellent standards are maintained at Entamanu.
The camp is discreetly nestled in a small forested area atop the crater rim and enjoys views both south towards the crater itself, and north-west towards the plains of the Serengeti, Olduvai Gorge and the Gol Mountains – boasting that it's the 'only place in the world where you can watch the sun rise over the crater, and set over the Serengeti'.
The whole camp has been architect-designed with curved roofs and the unusual inclusion of silvery mabati (corrugated iron) panelling in many areas, giving it a contemporary urban-rustic feel, reminiscent of a stylish small ski lodge.
The main communal areas consist of a spacious lounge area and dining room with a deck facing out towards the crater. There's an eclectic mix of neutral-coloured seating, brightened with red and purple cushions. There are a number of striking rustic furniture pieces and ornaments; the camp has a very well thought-out, cohesive and stylish design throughout.
Running the length of the communal area is a large veranda with comfy seating, and a grassy area beyond where younger guests enjoy playing. There is also a protected olteti (fig tree), which is sacred to the Maasai, who occasionally conduct ceremonies here that guests are welcome to watch.
There are ten guest rooms at Entamanu – two of which are designed as family units, with two bedrooms and a shared bathroom – all tastefully designed and decorated in a light palette of creams, browns, greys and blues. The textured wool throws, woven rugs and sheepskins further add to the lovely relaxing feel of the cabins. Each room has a small writing desk, luggage stand and comfortable lounge chairs facing out over the views. Useful items such as insect repellent, an air horn, a two-way radio, and a multi-charging point can also be found. The large shaded deck at the front has a pair of canvas directors' chairs. The deck is a tranquil spot to take in the spectacular views of the crater. Each tent is well spaced from its neighbours.
The en-suite bathrooms at Entamanu are generously sized and have separate areas for the modern flush toilet and plumbed-in shower. The batrhoom also has dual wash basins and an open wardrobe and laundry bag.
The temperature – or, more specifically, the cold – is always an issue at camps and lodges on the crater rim. June–July are the coldest months, when daytime temperatures can be 6–12°C, whereas November–December typically experiences 17–21°C. In order to combat the cold at Entamanu, there are stylish and fast-acting gas heaters to warm the bedrooms and bathrooms, remote-controlled from the bed.
As well as the obvious game drives in the Ngorongoro Crater itself, activities at the camp can include guided drives and walks in the wider Ngorongoro area if requested, visiting places such as Olduvai and the Empakaai Crater. It is also possible to do game walks to a neighbouring Maasai village. Led by a Maasai guide and accompanied by a TANAPA (national parks') ranger, this walk can take a number of hours, during which time it will be possible to learn about the flora and slightly smaller fauna – although on our walk we were lucky enough to see 22 giraffe galloping across a valley! After spending some time in a genuine Maasai village (as opposed to one that has been commercialised by tourism), there will be the option to continue the game walk back to camp, or for a game vehicle to provide a lift. Note that guided walks are restricted to over 12s.
Access to Entamanu takes around an hour from the Lodoare Gate of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and an hour and a half to two hours from Lake Manyara Airstrip. It's a very scenic drive, and you may want to stop en route.
Geographics
- Location
- Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- 2-3 nights allows for a full day to explore the crater and also make the most of the activities on offer in this unique setting.
- Directions
- Entamanu is around 30–35 minutes' drive down a rather rutted track from the Seneto Descent road, or 2-2 and a half hours’ drive from Lake Manyara Airstrip (the roads are being continually upgraded but there is still some further improvement required).
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- We’ve stayed multiple times at Entamanu and we found the food to be consistently fresh, tasty and imaginative. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice and the camp can be flexible with regard to children.
For breakfast, you can expect a selection of cereals, toast, yoghurt and fruit, with an English breakfast cooked to order.
Lunch was a tasty curry, avocado and beetroot salad with fruity rice. Dessert was fruit skewers drizzled in melted chocolate.
Dinner is a set three-course menu, and on our recent stay we started with a creamy leak and potato soup with crusty bread. This was followed by lemon and herb roast chicken with a selection of vegetables and roast potatoes, and bread and butter pudding to finish. There are snacks and canapés available all day if you happen to get peckish! - Dining style
- Mixture of group dining and individual tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Included, with the exception of premium spirits and Champagne. Filtered water is available both in the tents and communal area.
Special interests
- Cultural Experiences
- Entamanu has developed a very strong, sustainable relationship with the local community, provide genuine insights into Maasai life for guests whilst not degrading the traditional culture of Tanzania in favour of tourism.
- See ideas for Cultural Experiences in Tanzania
- Walking
- Entamanu is well located for a variety of highland walks; to Olmoti or Empakaai Crater, or around the Ngorongoro Crater rim. Soak up the wonderful landscapes, whilst you walk with your guide who will tell you all about the local flora and fauna.
- See ideas for Walking in Tanzania
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Entamanu Ngorongoro accepts children who are 8 years old and above.
- Special activities & services
- Activities with a local Maasai: traditional fire making, bow and arrow making, spear throwing.
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- The Ngorogoro Crater is a fascinating area for older children who can sit through game drives without problem; they will appreciate its geography and wildlife. There is space for younger children to play under supervision and activities are on offer if a distraction is required. Note that there is dangerous wildlife on the crater rim – especially elephants and buffalo – so great care must be taken at all times around this unfenced camp.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Entamanu Ngorongoro
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Entamanu Ngorongoro have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
96% success
96% success
96% success
96% success
95% success
95% success
95% success
91% success
78% success
68% success
28% success
11% success
6% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Power is available 24 hours a day. It is possible to charge batteries in tents.
- Communications
- WiFi is available in the main areas and there is good mobile reception.
- TV & radio
- There are no TVs or radios in camp.
- Water supply
- Transported in
- Water supply notes
- Plumbed in showers and flushing toilets
Sustainability
Education and the wellbeing of local children
Entamanu Ngorongoro assists the people of a nearby Maasai boma, by helping them invest in sustainable livelihoods, as well as improving the education of the children in the community. Their primary goal is to refurbish and upgrade the conditions of the boma’s nursery centre, vital to the families who live there.
Through visiting the nursery centre, just a short walk away, visitors can even assist with the vital task of teaching children in the nursery things such as ABCs and counting. The nursery could especially benefit from the donation of toys for the children, such as colouring books, balls, and skipping ropes. Entamanu is also an active contributor to Tanzanian Children’s Fund, which provides a permanent home for 97 vulnerable children. There, local children and those from nearby areas are provided free access to education, healthcare, as well as financial support for their community. Guests at Entamanu Ngorongoro can visit the TCF where they can learn more about and support their various projects.
See more great sustainability projects in Tanzania
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- There is a first aid kit in camp. The nearest doctor is in Karatu, approximately a 2 and a half hour drive away.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- There are unarmed guards on site. Each tent is equipped with a walkie-talkie and air horn for emergencies.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are in all tents.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is included. It is handwashed and line dried so can take a whole day – this is especially true in winter, between June and September. Note that underwear cannot be washed for cultural reasons and washing powder is provided in the bathrooms for this.
- Money
- There is one central safe in camp. Each room has a lockable pouch that can be stored in the safe or taken on game drives, at guests’ discretion.
- Accepted payment on location
- Entamanu accepts all major currencies, including US dollars, GB pound, Euros and Tanzanian shillings. Some credit cards are accepted, including Mastercard and Visa, but not America Express. There is a 7.5% for card transactions.
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Entamanu Ngorongoro's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Entamanu Ngorongoro.
Excursions from Entamanu Ngorongoro
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Entamanu Ngorongoro. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Crater Rim Walk
Half day - two hour walk
For some fantastic views, and the chance to see flora and fauna up close, take a walk along the rim of the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater. Led by an experienced safari guide and accompanied by an armed ranger, you will be able to take in the scale and beauty of the landscape from a different perspective.
More about Crater Rim Walk
Empakaai Crater Hike
Half day, two - three hour walk
Spend a half day hiking through the Empakaai Crater, in the Highlands area of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), led by an experienced guide and accompanied by a ranger.
More about Empakaai Crater Hike
Lake Manyara Safari
Half-day or full-day
Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park makes a great safari destination. Here, along with elephant herds and plains game, you’ll find jungle-like forests that are home to blue monkeys, a soda lake tinged pink by flamingos and some of Tanzania’s best birding.
More about Lake Manyara Safari
Maasai Village Visit
Two to three hours - afternoon activity
Gain an authentic insight into Maasai life, visiting one of the villages in the highland areas of the Ngorongoro Crater. Far from being a commercialised, contrived experience, this is a genuine opportunity to visit a real village, and to be welcomed by the villagers.
More about Maasai Village Visit
Mto Wa Mbu Village Walk
Two to three hours
Discover the nuances of day-to-day life in the large Tanzanian village of Mto Wa Mbu with a knowledgeable local guide. This is not a village set up for tourists – Mto Wa Mbu is a real community and offers a chance to see a side of Tanzania that many visitors pass by.
More about Village Walk
Olduvai Gorge visit
One - two hours
See for yourself the renowned archaeological site of Olduvai (or Oldupai) Gorge, which lies en route between the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti National Park. Famed for the discoveries of early hominin remains as well as the Laetoli Footprints, the site offers beautiful views, an engaging museum and potentially the opportunity to visit an active dig.
More about Olduvai Gorge visit
Olmoti Crater walk
Half day - two to three hour walk
Follow an ancient Maasai cattle trail on this private hike up the Olmoti Crater, led by an experienced guide and accompanied by an armed ranger. The crater may not compete in size with the neighbouring Ngorongoro Crater, but the birding is good, the mountain views wonderful, and the array of ferns is a botanist’s dream.
More about Olmoti Crater walk
Safari in Ngorongoro Crater
Typically a full day
To drive into the Ngorongoro Crater is to immerse yourself in a renowned wildlife park. Prides of lion and clans of hyena patrol amongst herds of zebra, wildebeest and Thomson’s gazelle, whilst flocks of crowned cranes keep out the way of jackals. Come for elephants with big tusks, too. And then there are the rhino…
More about Ngorongoro Crater safariOther lodges in Ngorongoro Crater
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Plantation Lodge
A relaxed base between Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara, Plantation Lodge has lush grounds and offers good value and high standards.
Gibbs Farm
Located not far from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Gibb's Farm has comfy rooms, homegrown food and strong community links
Lemala Ngorongoro
Lemala Ngorongoro is a small, comfortable tented camp on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater with lovely walking in the vicinity.
Crater Lodge
The ultra-luxurious Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is perched in a spectacular location on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater.
The Highlands
The Highlands is a unique camp near Olmoti Crater, north of Ngorongoro, offering drives, walks and cultural visits from a beautiful remote setting.
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Situated on the eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, with outstanding views, the Sopa Lodge is a somewhat dated, international-style hotel.
Rhino Lodge
Rhino Lodge is a simple, good-value lodge with a great location near the crater rim, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Farmhouse Lodge
Ngorongoro Farmhouse Lodge is set on a 750-acres working farm. Close to the NCA gate, it makes a great base for exploring the Crater.
Rhotia Valley Ttd. Lodge
Rhotia Valley is a simple lodge with a strong commitment to the local community, including a children's home, which guests may visit.
Ngorongoro Serena
The large, hotel-like Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge sits on the western rim of Ngorongoro Crater and has stunning views of the caldera.
Bougainvillea Lodge
Bougainvillea Safari Lodge provides an economical base from which to visit Lake Manyara or the Ngorongoro Crater.
The Manor
The Manor is a smart, family-friendly Cape-Dutch-style lodge, offering high-quality service and food in very comfortable surroundings.
Neptune Ngorongoro
Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge is a smart hilltop lodge with log-style cottages set close to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Wildlife Lodge
Stay at the Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge while on road safari in Northern Tanzania's spectacular Ngorongoro Crater area.
Crater's Edge
Craters Edge is an intimate luxury property on the north-eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater.
Lion's Paw
Located on the eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, this camp has stunning panoramic views down onto the crater floor. A five minute drive to the nearest descent gate allows for early access into the crater, maximising on avoiding the large crowds
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp
A small tented camp, located on the eastern side of the Ngorongoro Crater rim, with a five minute drive to crater descent gate.
Ngorongoro Fly-Camp
Explore the remote northern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater on a two-day hike and spend the night in this small fly-camp.
Country Lodge
Country Lodge is conveniently located on the edge of Karatu and provides a comfortable base for exploring Ngorongoro Crater or Lake Manyara.
When to go to Ngorongoro Crater
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Entamanu Ngorongoro in Ngorongoro Crater
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ngorongoro Crater in January
January marks the start of the short dry season. The Ngorongoro Crater floor is teeming with wildlife, offering excellent game viewing opportunities. The calving season for wildebeest begins in the nearby Ndutu Plains, attracting predators and providing exciting wildlife spectacles. Birdlife is vibrant, with both resident and migratory species present. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest is lush, attracting elephants and various bird species.
While the crater can be busy due to the New Year period, it quietens down later in the month. The Olduvai Gorge archaeological site is less crowded, allowing for a more intimate exploration of human evolution history. January offers good value for visitors, with pleasant weather and diverse wildlife sightings across the conservation area.
- Variable weather: clear, dry, or rainy
- Calving season in Ndutu Plains begins
- Excellent time for birding in the crater
- Great Migration gathers in southern areas
- Busy early month, quieter towards the end
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in January
Ngorongoro Crater in February
February in Ngorongoro Conservation Area is characterised by warm, dry weather, making it an ideal time for game drives and hiking. The Ngorongoro Crater remains a wildlife hotspot, with large herds of zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles on the crater floor. The calving season continues in the Ndutu Plains, offering incredible opportunities to witness newborn animals and intense predator activity.
Birdwatching is excellent, especially around Lake Magadi, where flamingos and other water birds congregate. The Empakaai and Olmoti Craters provide serene hiking experiences with stunning views. February is also a great time to visit Maasai villages, as the dry weather makes travel easier. The Olduvai Gorge and Laetoli Footprints sites are less crowded, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of these significant archaeological areas.
- Hot and dry weather in the conservation area
- Peak of wildebeest calving in Ndutu Plains
- Crater and southern areas busy with tourists
- Lush green landscapes throughout the region
- Increased predator activity due to calving
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in February
Ngorongoro Crater in March
March sees the beginning of the long rainy season, though exact timing varies yearly. The Ngorongoro Crater remains accessible, with lush vegetation attracting diverse wildlife. As migratory animals start to disperse, game viewing can become more challenging but rewarding. The wildebeest migration may still be visible in parts of the conservation area. Lake Magadi and other water sources become increasingly important for wildlife, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest is particularly beautiful during this time.
March is ideal for visiting the Olduvai Gorge, as the slightly wetter conditions can reveal fossils and artifacts. Cultural experiences at Maasai villages continue to be enriching. Some lodges may start to close for renovations, so it's advisable to check availability in advance.
- Hot with building humidity before rains
- Wildlife viewing varies as rains approach
- Quieter tourist season with lower rates
- Good for birding with migrant species present
- Great Migration begins to move northward
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Ngorongoro Crater in April
April is usually the wettest month in Ngorongoro area, with heavy rains transforming the landscape. The Ngorongoro Crater floor becomes a lush paradise, with wildflowers blooming across the grasslands. Wildlife viewing can be challenging due to the dense vegetation, but patient observers can witness unique behaviours. Lake Magadi swells, attracting numerous water birds, including flamingos. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest is at its most verdant, providing shelter for various animals.
April is an excellent time for photography, with dramatic skies and vibrant landscapes. The Olduvai Gorge and other archaeological sites may have limited access due to rain. While some lodges close during this period, those that remain open offer significantly reduced rates, making it an affordable time to visit for budget-conscious travellers willing to brave wetter conditions.
- Heavy rains with impressive thunderstorms
- Some lodges may close due to accessibility
- Lowest rates and very few other tourists
- Lush, green landscapes in the crater
- Not the best time game viewing due to dispersal
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in April
Ngorongoro Crater in May
As the month of May progresses, there begins a gradual decrease in rainfall, though the landscape remains lush and green. The Ngorongoro Crater floor is teeming with life, as animals take advantage of the abundant vegetation. Birdwatching is exceptional, particularly around Lake Magadi and the Lerai Fever Tree Forest. The Empakaai and Olmoti Craters offer stunning hiking experiences, with waterfalls and streams at their most impressive, though it can be muddy and slippery underfoot. Wildlife viewing improves as the month progresses and vegetation begins to thin.
May is an excellent time to visit the Olduvai Gorge and Laetoli Footprints, as the slightly damp conditions can reveal hidden fossils. Cultural visits to Maasai villages provide insights into how local communities adapt to seasonal changes. With fewer tourists, May offers a more intimate safari experience and the opportunity to enjoy Ngorongoro's beauty in relative solitude.
- Heavy rains continue with dramatic skies
- Quiet month, ideal for avoiding crowds
- Crater floor lush and green with long grass
- Wildlife more dispersed, fewer sightings
- Lower prices make safaris more affordable
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in May
Ngorongoro Crater in June
June marks the beginning of the dry season in Ngorongoro, with clearer skies and cooling temperatures. The Ngorongoro Crater becomes a wildlife haven as animals concentrate around remaining water sources. Game drives in the crater offer excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five. The Ndutu Plains start to dry out, concentrating wildlife and making them easier to spot.
Birdwatching remains rewarding, especially around Lake Magadi. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest provides a beautiful backdrop for wildlife photography. June is an ideal time for hiking in the Empakaai and Olmoti Craters, with comfortable temperatures and clearer trails. The Olduvai Gorge and other archaeological sites are easily accessible. As the shoulder tourist season begins, lodges reopen and offer a wide range of accommodation options.
- Variable weather: clear, dry, or some rain
- Wildlife starts to concentrate near water
- Parks still green but grass getting shorter
- Moderate visitor numbers in the crater
- Good value with shoulder season prices
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in June
Ngorongoro Crater in July
July is a prime month for visiting Ngorongoro, with dry weather and excellent wildlife viewing. The Ngorongoro Crater floor is bustling with activity as large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles graze on the short grass. Predator sightings, including lions and hyenas, are frequent. Lake Magadi attracts numerous flamingos and other water birds. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest provides shade for elephants and various bird species.
July is perfect for hiking adventures to the Empakaai and Olmoti Craters, offering breathtaking views. The Olduvai Gorge and Laetoli Footprints sites are easily accessible, providing fascinating insights into human evolution. Cultural visits to Maasai villages are particularly rewarding. However, the excellent conditions mean the area can get crowded, especially in the crater, so early bookings are essential.
- Dry and warm days, chilly mornings/evenings
- Excellent wildlife viewing in the crater
- Peak tourist season with high visitor numbers
- Higher prices due to prime conditions
- Book well in advance for crater lodges
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in July
Ngorongoro Crater in August
August in Ngorongoro offers superb safari conditions with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. The Ngorongoro Crater remains the focal point, with dense wildlife populations and excellent visibility. Predator sightings are frequent, with lions, leopards, and cheetahs often spotted. Lake Magadi is a hive of activity, with large flocks of flamingos creating a pink spectacle. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest provides a picturesque setting for wildlife photography.
August is ideal for exploring the Empakaai and Olmoti Craters on foot, with stunning vistas and diverse flora. The Olduvai Gorge and other archaeological sites offer fascinating excursions. However, August is peak season, so the crater can be crowded, and advance bookings are crucial for accommodations and activities.
- Dry weather continues, chilly mornings
- Superb wildlife viewing opportunities
- Very busy, especially in the crater area
- Advance booking essential for accommodations
- Consider exploring less crowded areas
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Ngorongoro Crater in September
September in Ngorongoro offers excellent safari conditions as the dry season continues. The Ngorongoro Crater floor teems with wildlife, concentrated around remaining water sources. This month provides some of the best opportunities to spot the Big Five in close proximity. Lake Magadi attracts numerous flamingos and other water birds, creating spectacular scenes. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest is a haven for elephants and various bird species.
September is ideal for hiking adventures to the Empakaai and Olmoti Craters, with clear skies offering breathtaking views. The Olduvai Gorge and Laetoli Footprints sites are easily accessible, providing fascinating insights into human evolution. Cultural visits to Maasai villages remain rewarding. While still part of the high season, September tends to see slightly fewer visitors than July and August, especially as the month progresses, offering a more relaxed safari experience.
- Fantastic wildlife viewing continues
- Parks slightly quieter than peak months
- Crater floor becomes drier, less vegetation
- Cool mornings and evenings, warm days
- Prices remain high due to good conditions
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Ngorongoro Crater in October
October in Ngorongoro is nearing the end of the dry season, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The Ngorongoro Crater floor is teeming with animals concentrated around diminishing water sources, offering frequent sightings of lions, elephants, and rhinos. Lake Magadi becomes a crucial water source, attracting diverse birdlife. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest provides essential shade for wildlife.
October is ideal for hiking in the Empakaai and Olmoti Craters, with clear skies offering stunning views. The Olduvai Gorge and other archaeological sites are easily accessible. With fewer tourists than peak months, October offers a balance of excellent wildlife viewing and more moderate visitor numbers.
- Mostly dry with chance of occasional storms
- Excellent game viewing in drier landscape
- Lower visitor numbers than earlier months
- Very good time to visit the crater
- Consider hot air balloon safaris for views
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Ngorongoro Crater in November
November in Ngorongoro typically sees the start of the short rains, bringing new life to the area. The Ngorongoro Crater floor begins to green, attracting diverse wildlife. Game viewing remains good, with animals still concentrated around water sources. Lake Magadi and other water bodies start to fill, attracting migratory birds. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest becomes lusher, providing shelter for various species.
November offers unique photographic opportunities with dramatic skies and rejuvenated landscapes. Cultural experiences at Maasai villages provide insights into seasonal adaptations. November can offer great value for money, with the chance to experience both dry and wet season conditions.
- Variable weather: clear, dry, or some rain
- Parks quieter, prices lower than peak season
- Good wildlife sightings as short rains begin
- Early migrants arrive in the crater area
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Ngorongoro Crater in December
December in Ngorongoro brings a mix of short rains and dry periods, creating a dynamic environment. The Ngorongoro Crater floor is lush and green, attracting diverse wildlife. Game viewing is excellent, with good chances of spotting the Big Five. Lake Magadi fills further, hosting numerous flamingos and water birds. The Lerai Fever Tree Forest is vibrant with new growth.
December marks the beginning of the wildebeest arriving into the nearby Ndutu Plains, attracting predators. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding with both resident and migratory species present. The Olduvai Gorge and other archaeological sites offer fascinating excursions between rain showers. While the festive season brings more visitors, early December can offer good value. Advance booking is essential for the holiday period.
- Variable weather with occasional rain
- Good game viewing in the crater
- Quiet early month, very busy end of month
- Prices rise sharply for holiday period
- Great Migration starts returning to the south
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in December
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