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Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp
Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp

Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp


3°7’26.9"S 35°39’50.1"E

About Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp

Sanctuary Ngorongoro falls into a large portfolio of Sanctuary Retreats, which includes camps and lodges across Africa.



While the choice of colour for the tents can seem rather dark under the forest canopy, we feel the camp offers an excellent location to fully experience the iconic Ngorongoro cloud forests. The camp is small and intimate offering an under-canvas experience, with the main advantage of the camp’s close proximity to the access road onto the crater floor, allowing guests to enjoy the crater floor before the crowds arrive.

Our view

While the choice of colour for the tents can seem rather dark under the forest canopy, we feel the camp offers an excellent location to fully experience the iconic Ngorongoro cloud forests. The camp is small and intimate offering an under-canvas experience, with the main advantage of the camp’s close proximity to the access road onto the crater floor, allowing guests to enjoy the crater floor before the crowds arrive.

Jessica Plumb

Jessica Plumb

Country manager: Tanzania

Accommodation

10 Tents

Children

This camp is best suited for children of 8 years and above

Open

Closed April and May

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Private activities

Private activities

Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp: Our full report

Sanctuary Ngorongoro falls into a large portfolio of Sanctuary Retreats, which includes camps and lodges across Africa.



As one of the of the few camps located on the eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, the quick access to the decent road onto the crater floor makes this camp a great choice for this iconic destination.

A choice of grey and dark green canvas allows the camp to successfully blend in with its natural surroundings, under the large canopies of the flat top acacias. Each tent enjoys a forests view, with some looking into the crater

The main area consists of a comfortable lounge, with an assortment of sofas and coffee tables, as well as wildlife photographs printed onto large canvas. A small bar is located at the back of the lounge with a selection of house and premium drinks. On the same wooden platform, directly adjacent, a spacious dining tent with individual tables set up for private meals. In front of the main area, the wooden deck stretches forward to offer an additional seating area and a large fire pit for evening drinks.

The rooms are modest tents on raised platforms, tucked into the forest. Each tent has a small deck with a chair and also a small shaving basin and mirror. The interior décor offers a pop of colour with burnt orange bed spreads and throw pillows with a patterned beige and grey woven carpet.

The nights on the crater rim can be rather chilly, therefore each room is provided a small gas heater which is lit by the camp staff in the evenings, along with hot water bottles.

The back of the tent has an ensuite bathroom, divided by a linen curtain partition. A enclosed canvas shower is centrally situated, with a vanity basin on one side and an enclosed toilet on the other side. Amenities such as bathrobes and slippers are provided, as well as a safe for storing valuables. Every tent is provided a small gym bag containing a yoga mat.

Geographics

Location
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
2 nights
Directions
A 1.5 drive to Lake Manyara Airstrip
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board
Food quality
Meals are usually buffet style, plated or prepared as individual family platters.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service is available on request
Drinks included
Most house drinks are included. Premium sprirts and champagne are extra. Drinking water is provided throughout the camp

Children

Attitude towards children
Children ages 6 and older are welcome
Property’s age restrictions
6 years and above
Special activities & services
There are no special activities for children.
Equipment
There is no special equipment for children.
Generally recommended for children
While the camp does have a slighty more intimate and adult atmosphere, we feel families would find this camp suitable to them. Due to the nature of the forest, parents should keep their children with them at all times
Notes
Parents should keep their children under constant supervision at all times.

Communications

Power supply notes
The camp relies on both solar and generator to power their inverters and the use of charging devices and hair dryers are permitted
Communications
Radios are provided in the rooms and there is wifi in both the main areas and the room.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Transported in
Water supply notes
All the tents have plumed in showers and flush loos. Hot water is provided by a hot water boilers.

Health & safety

Medical care
Closest medical facility is Fame Hospital in Karatu
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
Askaris available to escort guests during the night.
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers provided in the main area and the rooms. Each room is fitted with a carbon monoxide alarm.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
Not Possible
Laundry facilities
Laundry is included. Powdered soap is provided for ladies’ underwear
Money
Cash is accepted in all currencies. Currency exchange is possible, using the rate of the day.
Accepted payment on location
The camp can accept credit cards; Mastercard (2.5%), Visa (2.5%) and Amex (3%)

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Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp.


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When to go to Ngorongoro Crater

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp 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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