Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area - Season Guide and 9 Facts

Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most beautiful places on earth for wildlife viewing, utterly exceptional. You can spot wildlife throughout the year. Because of its unique ecosystem, the animals don't leave the crater.

The best time for Ngorongoro and other major National Parks in Tanzania and the Serengeti is June to September/October. Most tourists come for their safari tour in the African winter, the dry season is the busiest time of the year.

Weather and Seasons

The Ngorongoro Crater floor is located on an elevation of about 1.650 m/5.400 ft, whereas the crater rim is on a much higher elevation of about 2.300/7.500ft. The high crater rim creates a microclimate for the caldera floor. It never gets too hot on the crater floor, nor is it freezing in the winter. The lodges are located along the rim, where it is much colder from May to September. 

Dry Season - June-October 

This is the best time for game viewing with clear blue skies. Of course, it is also the busiest time of the year. Fewer mosquitoes. Downside: Most crowds, highest rates, very busy. Jeeps and spots need to be shared with many others. It is freezing at the crater rim in the morning and still fresh on the crater floor. A softshell jacket is well needed. It is also cold at night. The temperature in the afternoon is pleasant but still below 20°C. First showers start in October, but that does not have a huge impact on your safari. 

Wet Season - November-May 

In November and December, temperatures become more pleasant above 20°C in the crater but still cool on the rim due to the high elevation. There are frequent showers in the afternoon. The lush and green scenery is breathtaking. The wet season is not as good as the dry season for wildlife spotting, but it is always great here. The grass is higher, and predators are more difficult to spot. Birding is excellent migratory birds are here as well in the warmer and wetter season. Particular months within the wet season are January and February: You might see baby zebra, baby wildebeest and other newborns. Bird watching is also excellent during these months. In general, rain is limited and usually not that bad during the wet season. Overall, November to February are not overrun but still busy. 

Decreasing rainfall in May. March to April are the wettest months with heavy rain. I would avoid these months; you may not experience what you expect, and getting there is too expensive and time-consuming. Sometimes it can get challenging to use the roads during or after heavy rain. Although March and April are less busy, I would prefer the dry season.

Malaria

Malaria is an issue in Africa, and the risk is the highest during the rainy season and at the beginning of the dry season. It is recommended to wear long sleeves, long trousers, and take precautions. It is advisable to take antimalarial in a high-risk time.

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