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Rhino Lodge
Rhino Lodge
Rhino Lodge

About Rhino Lodge

Opened in 2007, Rhino Lodge is a relatively large lodge in a great location facing dense forest on the slopes ...

... of the Ngorongoro Crater, close to the rim. It's refreshingly simple with a relaxed atmosphere, and is operated in conjunction with the governing body of the area's Maasai, to ensure that they benefit from the lodge's success. Almost all the staff come from the local village, and part of the lodge's income goes directly to the Maasai community.

Rhino Lodge is a simple lodge with a clear purpose and approach. The lodge is mainly used by larger tour parties, and as such loses some character. It's relatively spartan, but for the more adventurous traveller, it is an interesting and very economical place to stay with enviably close access to the Crater floor. We visited Rhino Lodge when it first opened in 2007 and have visited it four times since; most recently in October 2018, and we still feel that it continues to be a good low cost option.

Our view

Rhino Lodge is a simple lodge with a clear purpose and approach. The lodge is mainly used by larger tour parties, and as such loses some character. It's relatively spartan, but for the more adventurous traveller, it is an interesting and very economical place to stay with enviably close access to the Crater floor. We visited Rhino Lodge when it first opened in 2007 and have visited it four times since; most recently in October 2018, and we still feel that it continues to be a good low cost option.

Jessica Plumb

Jessica Plumb

Tanzania expert

Accommodation

24 rooms

Children

Best for 8+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Rhino Lodge

22 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


91%
22 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
12
Good
10
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Marilyn & DuanefromCA

Arrived 1 Aug 2019, 2 nights

"Interesting Place"

"Decent room, lodge and food. Nothing great, nothing bad. The weather was …" Read Marilyn & Duane’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

D & SfromNZ

Arrived 24 Jun 2019, 3 nights

"Cosy lodge in the mist"

"A relaxed and rustic feel. Cosy fires in the lounge/dining area and in your room …" Read D & S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Ms Donna HfromUSA

Arrived 9 Feb 2018, 2 nights

"Rhino Lodge review"

"The setting, dining area and food were all very nice. The staff was exceptional. …" Read Ms Donna H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

LaurenfromCalifornia

Arrived 13 Sep 2015, 3 nights

"Great budget-friendly choice above the crater"

"The setting of the Rhino Lodge is idyllic, at elevation and surrounded by lush, …" Read Lauren’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Ms MfromLethbridge

Arrived 3 Feb 2015, 2 nights

"Enjoyed the resident wildlife"

"Even though the lodge is a little dated, we loved the atmosphere. A very friendly …" Read Ms M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs CfromShaftesbury

Arrived 15 Jan 2015, 1 nights

"Rhino Lodge review"

"We used Rhino Lodge for an overnight stay, travelling from Kili airport on …" Read Mrs C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr & Mrs FfromNeterlands

Arrived 27 Sep 2014, 2 nights

"Rhino Lodge Review"

"We were welcomed to Rhino Lodge by the resident Marabou Stork who looked like …" Read Mr & Mrs F’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs GfromDartmouth

Arrived 30 Aug 2014, 2 nights

"Basic but good value and excellent position"

"We were told that it was basic and indeed it was. However, we found the staff …" Read Mr & Mrs G’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

A & KfromLondon

Arrived 20 Aug 2014, 2 nights

"Simple but effective"

"This is a rustic / simple type of safari lodge but it has a number of great …" Read A & K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Dr WfromPennsylvania

Arrived 12 Aug 2013, 1 nights

"Recovery at Rhino Lodge"

"A basic lodge - nothing fancy - but most welcome and the people were friendly. …" Read Dr W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

See all Rhino Lodge reviews

Rhino Lodge: Our full report

Opened in 2007, Rhino Lodge is a relatively large lodge in a great location facing dense forest on the slopes ...

... of the Ngorongoro Crater, close to the rim. It's refreshingly simple with a relaxed atmosphere, and is operated in conjunction with the governing body of the area's Maasai, to ensure that they benefit from the lodge's success. Almost all the staff come from the local village, and part of the lodge's income goes directly to the Maasai community.

The main lodge is built with solid stone walls which are yellow stucco on the outside, and whitewashed on the inside. The floors are highly polished stone and in the main dining room, colourful tablecloths top the tables that are dotted around. Several comfortable sofas surround a large central fireplace; on a previous visit this proved a cosy place to settle after dinner and pit your bao skills (a traditional African board game) against the local Maasai. The room is decorated with Rhino bronzes and buffalo horns and there is a small DSTV in one corner.

The 24 rooms at Rhino Lodge are situated in a terraced row around an outside courtyard, with a long wooden veranda on one side, facing the forest. Inside, the rooms are basic, with tiled floors, whitewashed walls and comfortable beds. Bed throws and curtains made from Maasai blankets add a touch of style and colour, and a small fireburner will keep you warm in the cooler months. There is also space to hang clothes, and a small writing desk and dresser where you'll find a mirror and some bottled water. The result is a simple functional room, with a traditional character. Rooming configurations are very flexible as triples can be arranged in each room and four rooms have a double bed and bunk beds. In addition, Rhino Lodge has two family rooms.

The en-suite bathrooms are again simple, but clean, with a hot shower, flushing toilet and handbasin. A wrought-iron towel rail and toilet-roll holder break up the slightly clinical feel and lend some character. There is also a UK-style plug socket in the wall which makes charging batteries possible in the rooms, when the generator is turned on.

The main restaurant is situated at the back of the property overlooking the forest. A large wooden deck wraps around the restaurant on two of its sides which has a few chimineas and a stone fire pit to keep guests warm if they want to sit out in the evenings. The restaurant is designed as simply as the rest of the rest of the property, but is very pleasant. There are wooden chairs and tables covered by red tablecloths and the only other decoration is some pictures of Rhinoceroses and a few storm lanterns. The main focal points of the room are the two large fireplaces in the center which add warmth in the cooler months.

From Rhino Lodge you will usually head out on activities with your own private vehicle and guide. It is a very good base from which to explore the Ngorongoro Crater, as it's only about 20 minutes' drive from the main 'descent' road to the Crater floor.

Geographics

Location
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
Spend two nights at Rhino Lodge in order to explore the Crater floor for one day – or stay a little longer to enjoy some walking as well.
Directions
Rhino Lodge is immediately next to the Ngorongoro Crater's rim; just a 20 minute drive to the decent road. It is around a 3½ hour drive from Arusha, or a 2-hour drive from Lake Manyara.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board
Food quality
The food at Rhino Lodge is quite simple, yet hearty and filling, and there is plenty to go around. Complimentary tea, coffee and hot chocolate are available from a self-service bar throughout the day. Filtered water is always available for drinking.

Breakfast is served from 6.00am until 9.00am and usually consists of plenty of fruit, fresh bread, eggs cooked to your liking and fresh juice. Tea and coffee are also available.

Guests are usually provided with a packed lunch, so that you don't have to return to the lodge. Rhino Lodge provides sandwiches, fresh fruit, a snack such as biscuits or cake, and a drink.

If the lodge is full, dinner is usually a buffet, but for fewer guests there will be a set three-course menu. On our last visit in October 2018, we did not get a chance to sample the food but on a previous stay we enjoyed zucchini soup to start, followed by a choice of either chicken masala or meatballs, with rice or potatoes. We then had a fruit salad for dessert. In general the food varies between Swahili and internationally influenced dishes.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
No
Drinks included
Drinks are not included. Expect to pay around $4 for a beer, $5 for a glass of wine and $1 for a soda.

Children

Attitude towards children
Rhino Lodge welcomes children of all ages.
Property’s age restrictions
There are no age restrictions at Rhino Lodge.
Special activities & services
There are no special activities or services at Rhino Lodge.
Equipment
Rhino Lodge has a cot as well as high chairs for small children.
Generally recommended for children
Rhino Lodge is a relaxed and welcoming place that would be a great place for children, however wild animals do pass through the camp so parents must always supervise their children.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Rhino Lodge

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Rhino 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.

Black Rhino

100% success

Buffalo

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Lion

100% success

Spotted Hyena

100% success

Wildebeest

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Aardvark

0% success

Eland

0% success

Leopard

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Striped Hyena

0% success

Wild dog

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
The generator is only turned on between 05:00 - 09:00 and 17:00 - 21:00 and so electricity for charging batterires and electronics is only available during these hours. The lights in the bedrooms work 24 hours. Solar power is used to heat water.
Communications
There is cellphone reception at Rhino Lodge and there is also a laptop in reception which can be borrowed free of charge for up to 20 minutes.
TV & radio
There is no radio at Rhino Lodge, but there is DSTV (satellite television) in the lounge.
Water supply
Transported in
Water supply notes
Piped in from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Filtered water is provided for guests to drink. There is also hot and cold running water that is fine to wash with.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
Rhino Lodge has a basic first-aid kit on site and there is a small hospital nearby if there is an emergency.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
There are askaris (local guards) patrolling throughout the day and night.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers and ire blankets by each room and all of the staff are trained in fire safety.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Laundry is possible for those staying at least two nights. There is a small additional cost for this.
Money
There are no currency exchange facilities at Rhino Lodge.
Accepted payment on location
Travellers can pay for any extras in US dollars or Tanzanian shillings cash. MasterCard and Visa credit cards are also accepted.

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Rhino Lodge's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Rhino Lodge.


Excursions from Rhino Lodge

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Rhino Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Empakaai Crater Hike

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
100% (2 reviews)
Lake Manyara Safari

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
84% (49 reviews)
Mto Wa Mbu Village 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
90% (8 reviews)
Olduvai Gorge visit

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
93% (17 reviews)
Olmoti Crater walk

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
93% (3 reviews)
Safari in Ngorongoro Crater

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 safari
95% (97 reviews)

Other lodges in Ngorongoro Crater

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Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

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Bougainvillea Safari Lodge

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The Manor

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Neptune Ngorongoro Lodge

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Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge

Wildlife Lodge

Stay at the Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge while on road safari in Northern Tanzania's spectacular Ngorongoro Crater area.


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Crater's Edge

Crater's Edge

Craters Edge is an intimate luxury property on the north-eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater.


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Lion's Paw

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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


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Sanctuary Ngorongoro Crater Camp

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.


No reviews yet
Ngorongoro Fly-Camp

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.


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Country Lodge

Country Lodge

Country Lodge is conveniently located on the edge of Karatu and provides a comfortable base for exploring Ngorongoro Crater or Lake Manyara.


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When to go to Ngorongoro Crater

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Rhino 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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