About Plantation Lodge
Privately owned Plantation Lodge, lies between Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Lake Manyara National Park, ...
... a short distance from the bustling Tanzanian market town of Karatu. Set in three hectares (seven acres) of beautifully maintained gardens, it is staffed entirely by local residents. The lodge is mainly used by visitors travelling with their own guide and vehicle, as a base for visits to the Ngorongoro Crater and sometimes to Lake Manyara National Park.
We have always been impressed by the attention to detail and personal care at Plantation Lodge. It is comparatively affordable compared to many of the lodges on the rim of the crater and we feel it offers excellent value for money. Conveniently located, it makes a lovely, tranquil base from which to explore both the Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara areas.
Our view
We have always been impressed by the attention to detail and personal care at Plantation Lodge. It is comparatively affordable compared to many of the lodges on the rim of the crater and we feel it offers excellent value for money. Conveniently located, it makes a lovely, tranquil base from which to explore both the Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara areas.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
23 rooms
Children
Best for 8+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Mountain biking
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Plantation Lodge
46 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 20 pictures of Plantation Lodge to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Plantation Lodge
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Firefinch Drive-Fly Safari
9 days • 3 locations • 1 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Enjoy a combination of privately guided and shared game drives during this good-value exploration of northern Tanzania. Explore game-dense regions from three comfortable bases which offer a variety of activities.
Visiting Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and 1 other area
US$7,720 - US$14,200 per person
Gorillas and Serengeti Safari
11 days • 4 locations • 2 country
KIGALI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Combine three iconic experiences – mountain gorillas in Rwanda, and the Serengeti plains and awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.
Visiting Kigali, Ngorongoro Crater and 2 other areas
US$14,310 - US$15,540 per person
Plantation Lodge: Our full report
Privately owned Plantation Lodge, lies between Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Lake Manyara National Park, ...
... a short distance from the bustling Tanzanian market town of Karatu. Set in three hectares (seven acres) of beautifully maintained gardens, it is staffed entirely by local residents. The lodge is mainly used by visitors travelling with their own guide and vehicle, as a base for visits to the Ngorongoro Crater and sometimes to Lake Manyara National Park.
Plantation Lodge was built as a farmhouse in a style now described as 'German colonial era' – which dates back to around 1890 to 1945, when Tanzania was a German colony known as Tanganyika. Expert Africa team members have visited Plantation Lodge on numerous occasions and it's always been immaculately clean and well presented with very helpful staff.
The main house – incorporating the lounge, dining rooms and bar – is fresh, light and airy. White walls act as the perfect backdrop for black-and-white photographs and African curios. Straw mats cover the cool tiled floors, and high-beamed ceilings ensure a bright and spacious feel.
Meals are served either outside – perhaps in the cool courtyard, a covered veranda or in the extensive gardens – or in one of two large and elegant dining rooms. One of these caters for up to 25 guests, the other up to 40, with guests seated either in large groups or at individual tables, depending on their preferences and the composition of the groups staying. Stylish metal chandeliers hang from high vaulted ceilings over tables lined with white-canvas directors' chairs, and white curtains frame floor-length windows and french doors. At each end of the rooms are exposed brick fireplaces, one of which is surrounded by cushioned chairs and a sofa.
In Plantation Lodge's impressive bar, wire chandeliers, polished concrete floors and white-washed walls lend a cool and stylish feel. In one section, a glass floor looks into the wine cellar below: a popular spot for drinks on special occasions or wine-tasting sessions – although the lodge doesn't have a dedicated sommelier.
Stone stairs lead up to a mezzanine level offering more comfortable seating, and to the side of the bar is a small lounge with comfortable chairs, low tables and a log-burning stove. A decked area in front of the bar has lovely view over the gardens and is a great place to relax with a drink or over lunch under the shade of umbrellas.
Stone paths lead from the main house to Plantation Lodge's 23 rooms and suites, which are spread around the garden. Some are fully detached cottages while others are adjacent to each other in small groups. All have garden views and finished to a high standard, with cut flowers or plant arrangements (both here and in the main areas) adding a personal touch.
If you're stopping over, a room would be fine, but if you're staying for a couple of night or more, we recommend that you take a suite.
- 18 standard rooms are individually decorated and quite spacious. Most have double beds and colourful African bedspreads, and all have smart, sparkling en-suite facilities with twin basins, spacious showers, flush toilets, toiletries and dressing gowns. The beds, all super comfortable and with mosquito nets, can be twin or king-size as required.
Every room has a fireplace or a wood-burning stove – it can get quite chilly here in July and August – and some have a veranda with sunloungers or easy chairs. Tea- and coffee-making stations are also installed. You can find the normal amenities here, including a free-standing fan and electric safe. And one room has some adaptations for those with limited mobility; please ask us for details.
For families, two standard rooms interconnect to form a family room. There is also a cluster of four rooms which together form the Garden House. A rather manorial set up, this has its own lounge, dining room and TV, and is particularly good for groups of at least eight people, or extended families. As a bonus, Plantation Lodge will cater for private dining and parties in the Garden House. - The seven suites at Plantation Lodge are equally smart, but larger than the standard rooms and with a much more private feel. All have a separate lounge with fireplace or log-burning stove, as well as a stocked minibar. The bedroom has a double bed draped in mosquito nets and a spacious en-suite bathroom with double basins, walk-in shower and toilet (some also have a separate bath). The Family Suite is a favourite, and has a TV. The Farmhouse Suite has interlinking rooms. The most luxurious of all the options is the Zanzibar Suite, which is a lovely private space in the corner of the grounds with striking furniture.
Plantation Lodge has a few activities: free guided walks to explore nearby coffee plantations, or walks to a neighbouring farm for an insight into how people on the farm live and work. And don't miss a visit to the cellar with its extensive selection of wines. The lodge is just 30 minutes' drive from the Ngorongoro Gate, and 45 minutes from the entrance to Lake Manyara National Park, putting both parks within easy reach of travellers.
Geographics
- Location
- Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- A two-night stay allows you to explore Ngorongoro Crater or Lake Manyara National Park, but we suggest staying for a third to relax and enjoy the immediate environs of Plantation Lodge and the surrounding area.
- Directions
- Plantation Lodge is situated off the main Karatu Road, about a 30-minute drive from the Ngorongoro Gate and about a four-hour drive from Arusha.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board
- Food quality
- Most of the meals at Plantation Lodge are prepared using organic fruits and vegetables grown in their own garden or on the plantation. There are vegetarian options at all meals and most dietary preferences can be catererd for. Meal times are flexible, with breakfast being served from 06:00.
On our last visit for breakfast we enjoyed a buffet of cereals, fresh fruit and fruit juice, along with a platter of cold meats and cheeses, and the option of a cooked breakfast.
Lunch was a lovely vegetable soup served with crusty fresh bread, followed by a mild chicken curry with basmati rice and a large bowl of fresh green salad, and rounded off with a refreshing bowl of homemade coconut ice cream. For those doing full-day excursions to the nearby parks, the lodge will prepare a packed lunch.
Our four-course set dinner, served in the candle-lit dining room, consisted of a niçoise salad and butternut squash soup to start, followed by a beef fillet with fresh vegetables, and tiramisu for dessert. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is not available.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included for guests staying in the standard rooms at Plantation Lodge. Those staying in the suites have a complimentary stocked minibar in their room, and house wines by the glass are also included. All other drinks cost extra.
Bottled drinking water is supplied free to all guests.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome at Plantation Lodge, but not especially catered for.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions at Plantation Lodge.
- Special activities & services
- There are no special services for children.
- Equipment
- One highchair and two cots are available.
- Generally recommended for children
- We think the lodge is fairly well suited to older children, with teenagers more frequent guests than young children. There are large grounds and a swimming pool that children can enjoy under parental supervision.
- Notes
- Children would be allowed on the guided walks of the coffee plantation and neighbouring farms that could be an interesting diversion from days on safari. The pool is not lifeguarded, so parents would need to supervise children at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Plantation Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Plantation Lodge 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.
78% success
67% success
67% success
67% success
63% success
50% success
44% success
38% success
29% success
14% success
14% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Electricity is available until 11pm and then is switched to solar until 5am. As a backup they have a generator. All rooms have sockets for charging electronic devices.
- Communications
- There is cellphone reception in most areas, but no room phones. Free WiFi is available in all areas but is stronger in the main areas. This would be suitable for sending a few photos and e-mails, however not large uploads or downloads.
- TV & radio
- There are no TVs at Plantation Lodge. For major sporting events, a plan is made such as installing a temporary TV in the bar.
- Water supply
- Borehole
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Plantation Lodge has a first-aid kit and the nearest hospital is the renowned FAME Hospital in Karatu town. A new district hospital is under construction – updated 2023.
- Dangerous animals
- Low Risk
- Security measures
- There is a perimeter fence and outsourced security guards on duty 24 hours a day.
- Fire safety
- Each room has a fire extinguisher.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Cultural excursion
Guided walking safari
Mountain biking
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry (machine-washed and tumble-dried) is included for guests in the suites and available at extra cost for those in the standard rooms – on our last visit this was around $5 per item. All clothing items are accepted.
- Money
- Plantation Lodge does not have a currency exchange, but there are ATMs in nearby Karatu town. There are digital safes in each of the rooms.
- Accepted payment on location
- Guests may pay with US dollars, euros, Tanzanian shillings or British pounds. Plantation Lodge accepts Visa and Mastercard, normally with no surcharge. American Express is not accepted.
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Plantation Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Plantation Lodge.
Excursions from Plantation Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Plantation Lodge. 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
Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway
Usually one hour
Experience the forest of Lake Manyara National Park from a whole new perspective – high up in the trees. The first suspended walkway in Tanzania, it stretches underneath the canopy for 370m between the mahogany and fig trees, giving intrepid visitors a unique view of the surrounding flora and fauna.
More about Manyara Treetop Walk
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.
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.
Entamanu Ngorongoro
Opened in 2016, Entamanu Ngorongoro is a small camp high on the Crater rim with views towards the crater and the plains of the Serengeti.
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 Plantation Lodge 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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