Best Time to vist Ngorongoro

Safari summary

Planning a trip to Ngorongoro Crater?
This iconic Tanzanian destination offers exceptional wildlife experiences year-round, but certain seasons provide unique advantages depending on what you’re looking for—whether it’s game viewing, scenic landscapes, or cultural immersion.
Dry Season: June to October
For wildlife enthusiasts, the dry season from June to October is considered the prime time to visit Ngorongoro Crater. The dry weather ensures easy navigation and clear visibility, while animals gather around water sources, making sightings of elephants, lions, zebras, and the rare black rhino more frequent. The thinner vegetation also enhances photography opportunities.
This period aligns with the Great Migration in the nearby Serengeti, so it’s a perfect time to combine both experiences. Cooler temperatures and low humidity also contribute to a more pleasant safari atmosphere.
Short Rainy Season: December to March
The short rainy season, from December to March, brings vibrant green landscapes as occasional showers revive the environment. While rains are brief, the fresh scenery and fewer crowds provide a serene setting. It’s also the calving season, with herbivores like wildebeest giving birth, attracting predators and offering a dramatic view of nature's life cycle. Birdwatchers will be in heaven, as migratory species flock to the area.
Year-Round Adventures
Although the dry and short rainy seasons stand out, Ngorongoro Crater is a year-round destination. Its unique ecosystem and permanent water sources support abundant wildlife no matter when you visit. Each season brings its own charm, ensuring unforgettable moments whenever you choose to explore.
Tailored Ngorongoro Crater Tours
We offer a variety of safari options to explore the crater and its surroundings. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a multi-day adventure, our tours are designed to match different schedules and preferences.
Option 1: Ngorongoro Crater Day Trip from Arusha
Ideal for those short on time, this day trip covers the crater’s highlights, including up-close wildlife encounters and interactions with the Maasai community.
Option 2: 2 Days Safari to Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater
Combine Tarangire’s large elephant herds with the wonders of Ngorongoro Crater for a well-rounded, two-day experience.
Option 3: 3 Days Tarangire, Ngorongoro, & Lake Manyara
Explore three top destinations in northern Tanzania, each with its own unique landscapes and wildlife.
Option 4: 3 Days Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
Experience the vast plains of the Serengeti and the rich biodiversity of Ngorongoro on this thrilling three-day safari.
Option 5: 4 Days Tarangire, Serengeti, & Ngorongoro Crater
Immerse yourself in the distinct ecosystems of Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater on this four-day tour.
Option 6: 4 Days Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
A focused exploration of two of Tanzania’s most famous wildlife destinations, ideal for a more in-depth safari.
Option 7: 5 Days Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, & Lake Manyara
A comprehensive five-day journey covering the best of northern Tanzania’s wildlife parks.
Customizable Ngorongoro Crater Tours
Want something more tailored? We offer personalized itineraries to suit your specific interests. Whether you’re after cultural experiences, special wildlife encounters, or have unique travel dates, we’ll create a custom tour that fulfills your safari dreams.
No matter when you choose to visit Ngorongoro Crater, you’re bound to have a memorable adventure. From wildlife-packed dry seasons to the lush beauty of the short rainy period, Ngorongoro delivers breathtaking experiences all year long.
 
 
 

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Easy activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Ngorongoro Crater
	Accesibility	This tour is modifiable for those with limited mobility.

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Wildlife sanctuaries

What’s included?

• Airport transfers
• All drinks
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Accommodation
• Alcoholic beverages
• Hot air balloons
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas