Ngorongoro Conservation Area is in northern Tanzania. It’s home to the vast, volcanic Ngorongoro Crater and “big 5” game (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino). The NCA is most famous for the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera that is home to a rich array of wildlife, making it one of the most iconic conservation areas in the world.
The area is a remarkable blend of natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage, serving as a testament to how humans and wildlife can coexist while preserving the planet's ecological wealth."
Find out more about Ngorongoro Conservation Area by exploring the other tabs.
Highland Areas:
The NCA is situated at a relatively high altitude, with the Ngorongoro Crater rim reaching up to 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) above sea level.
Temperatures in the highland areas are generally cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). At night, temperatures can drop significantly, often falling to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F).
Rainfall: The highland areas receive moderate rainfall, with an average of 600 mm to 1,200 mm (24 to 47 inches) annually. The wettest months are typically from March to May, during the long rains, while the short rains occur from October to December.
Ngorongoro Crater:
The crater floor is lower in altitude compared to the surrounding highlands, and its climate is generally milder and more stable.
Temperatures on the crater floor are warmer than on the rim, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), and cooler nights at 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
Rainfall in the crater is also moderate, with the majority of rain falling during the long rainy season (March to May) and a shorter rainy season (October to December).
Weather conditions can vary throughout the year at Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Nearest airport: The closest major airport to Ngorongoro is Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), both of which serve international and regional flights.
Arusha Airport: Closer to Ngorongoro, about a 2-hour drive.
Kilimanjaro International Airport: About a 4-hour drive.
By car: You can take a domestic flight to Arusha or Kilimanjaro and then rent a car or arrange a transfer with a tour operator to get to the crater.
From Arusha, you’ll travel about 2-3 hours by car.
From Kilimanjaro International Airport, it’s around 4-5 hours by car
We can arrange transportation to Ngorongoro Conservation Area as part of your tour package.
Long Rains (March to May): The NCA experiences significant rainfall during this period. The long rains are vital for replenishing the landscape, feeding rivers, and supporting the region’s vegetation.
Short Rains (October to December): This season is characterized by lighter rainfall. While it can still affect the wildlife and vegetation, it is not as intense as the long rains.
Dry Season (June to October): This period is generally the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and the landscape becomes drier. Temperatures are moderate and the skies are clear.
Book your visit during these recommended times for the best experience.
