Karatu District, located in northern Tanzania, is often referred to as the “gateway to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area”. Nestled between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Highlands, Karatu is a charming and fertile area known for its rolling hills, colorful local markets, coffee plantations, and vibrant culture. It’s an excellent stopover point for travelers heading to Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti National Park.
Find out more about Karatu by exploring the other tabs.
Karatu enjoys a mild and temperate climate due to its elevation. Daytime temperatures range between 20°C and 28°C (68°F to 82°F), while nights can be cool, especially from June to August. Rainy seasons occur from March to May (long rains) and a shorter one from October to December. The rest of the year is generally dry and pleasant.
Weather conditions can vary throughout the year at Karatu.
Karatu is accessible by road from Arusha, which is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours away via the well-maintained road passing through Makuyuni and Mto wa Mbu. The nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Lake Manyara Airstrip for smaller regional flights. From the airstrip, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Karatu.
We can arrange transportation to Karatu as part of your tour package.
The best time to visit Karatu is during the dry seasons from June to October and January to February, when the weather is comfortable and road conditions are favorable for safari travel. However, Karatu is a year-round destination, especially for cultural tourism, coffee tours, and visiting the nearby highlands.
Book your visit during these recommended times for the best experience.
