Ngorongoro in April – Weather, Prices, Travel Tips, Safari & More

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with its unparalleled landscapes and rich wildlife, is one of Tanzania’s most celebrated destinations. April, a month often overlooked by travelers due to the rainy season, offers a unique opportunity to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site in a different light. From weather patterns to wildlife viewing, this guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Ngorongoro in April.

Weather and Climate Ngorongoro in April

April is deep within the long rainy season in Ngorongoro, with consistent rainfall throughout the month. The weather is characterized by heavy downpours, particularly in the afternoons and evenings, while mornings may start off with light mist or drizzle. Daytime temperatures hover around 22°C (72°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F), making the air crisp and refreshing.

The rain transforms the landscape into a lush, green paradise, with dense vegetation and blooming flowers. While the wet conditions can sometimes make travel challenging, the beauty of the area during this time is undeniable. The crater and its surroundings are at their most vibrant, offering a stunning backdrop for your safari experience.

Why Visit Ngorongoro in April

April might be the rainy season, but it’s also a time of great beauty and tranquility in Ngorongoro. The reduced number of tourists during this period means you’ll have more of the area to yourself, allowing for a more intimate and peaceful experience. The landscape is lush and green, creating stunning photographic opportunities that are unmatched at any other time of year.

For wildlife enthusiasts, April is a continuation of the calving season, with many young animals still dependent on their mothers, making for heartwarming and sometimes dramatic wildlife encounters. Additionally, April’s rains often herald the movement of the Great Migration as herds begin to gather on the plains, providing an early glimpse of this world-famous spectacle.

Where to Go in Ngorongoro in April

Despite the rains, there are several key areas in Ngorongoro that are particularly rewarding to visit in April:

Ngorongoro Crater: The crater is teeming with wildlife throughout the year, and April is no exception. The abundance of water and food during this time draws a diverse array of animals, making it one of the best spots for game viewing.

Ngorongoro Highlands: The highlands around the crater are breathtakingly beautiful in April, with mist-covered forests and vibrant green hills. This is a great time for hiking, as the trails are less crowded and the scenery is at its best.

Olduvai Gorge: This world-famous archaeological site offers a unique opportunity to learn about early human history. The gorge is particularly atmospheric in April, with fewer visitors and cooler temperatures.

Ndutu Plains: Situated between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Serengeti, the Ndutu Plains are a prime location for seeing the early stages of the Great Migration. April’s rains attract large herds of wildebeest and zebras, along with their predators.

When to Visit Ngorongoro in April

The best time to visit Ngorongoro in April is during the early morning hours. The weather is generally calmer, with less likelihood of rain, and the wildlife is most active. The soft morning light also enhances the beauty of the landscape, making it a perfect time for photography.

Another ideal time is late afternoon, just before the rains set in. The skies can be dramatic, with rolling clouds and the occasional rainbow adding to the scene. Evening game drives can be particularly rewarding as animals prepare to settle in for the night.

What to Do in Ngorongoro in April

Ngorongoro offers a variety of activities in April, suited to different interests:

Game Drives: Despite the rains, game drives remain the most popular activity. The crater’s unique ecosystem allows for sightings of the Big Five and other wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos.

Cultural Tours: April is a great time to engage with the local Maasai community. Visit a traditional Maasai village to learn about their culture and way of life. The rainy season also coincides with various Maasai ceremonies, which can provide a deeper insight into their customs.

Bird Watching: April is an excellent time for bird watching, as migratory birds are still present in large numbers. The crater’s lakes and wetlands attract a variety of species, including flamingos, herons, and eagles.

Hiking: The Ngorongoro Highlands offer some of the best hiking trails in Tanzania. The rainy season enhances the beauty of the landscape, with waterfalls and streams in full flow, making for a more rewarding hiking experience.

What to Pack for Ngorongoro in April

Packing for Ngorongoro in April requires preparation for the rainy conditions. Here’s what you should bring:

Waterproof gear: A durable rain jacket, waterproof trousers, and a cover for your backpack are essential to stay dry during downpours.
Warm clothing: Layers are important as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the early morning and evening.
Sturdy boots: The wet and muddy conditions require strong, waterproof boots with good traction.
Binoculars: Essential for wildlife viewing, particularly for bird watching.
Insect repellent: The rains can bring out more insects, so pack a good insect repellent to protect against bites.

Crowds & Costs – Ngorongoro in April

April is part of the low season in Ngorongoro, meaning fewer tourists and lower prices. This is an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers, as many lodges and camps offer discounts and special deals. The reduced number of visitors also means you’ll have a more exclusive experience, with less crowded game drives and more personal attention from guides.

The off-peak season also brings a sense of solitude and tranquility that’s harder to find during the busier months. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Ngorongoro without the hustle and bustle of large tourist groups.

Wildlife & Animals – Ngorongoro in April

April is an exciting month for wildlife in Ngorongoro. The calving season is still in progress, with many young animals exploring their new world. This also means that predators are highly active, providing some thrilling game-viewing opportunities.

The increased rainfall ensures that water sources are plentiful, so animals tend to be more dispersed across the crater and surrounding plains. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on seeing them—guides are experienced in tracking wildlife, and the lush vegetation makes the scenery even more impressive.

Birdlife is also abundant in April, with a mix of resident and migratory species. The wetlands and crater lakes are particularly good spots for bird watching, with flamingos, storks, and raptors being common sightings.

Tours and Activities – Ngorongoro in April

Despite the rains, there are still plenty of tours and activities to enjoy in Ngorongoro during April:

Guided Game Drives: Professional guides are adept at navigating the wet conditions and know the best spots for wildlife viewing.
Cultural Experiences: Participate in Maasai cultural tours, where you can learn about their traditions and witness ceremonies that are unique to this season.
Photography Tours: April’s dramatic landscapes and skies make it an ideal time for photography. Capture the vivid greens, the misty mornings, and the wildlife in its natural, rain-soaked habitat.

What to Expect – Ngorongoro in April

When visiting Ngorongoro in April, you can expect a mix of lush landscapes, active wildlife, and fewer tourists. However, you should also be prepared for rain, which can sometimes disrupt travel plans or make certain roads impassable. The rewards of visiting during this time, though, are immense—a more personal and tranquil experience in one of the world’s most extraordinary natural settings.

Ngorongoro Accommodations in April

April offers great value for accommodation, with many lodges and camps offering discounts due to the lower demand. Here are some options to consider:

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge: Perched on the crater rim, this lodge offers spectacular views and comfortable accommodations. It’s a great choice for those who want easy access to the crater floor.
Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp: This eco-friendly camp provides an intimate safari experience with close proximity to the crater’s descent road.
Gibb’s Farm: Located on the outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Highlands, Gibb’s Farm is a charming retreat with beautiful gardens and farm-to-table dining.

Getting to Ngorongoro Crater in April

Traveling to Ngorongoro in April is similar to other times of the year, though the rainy conditions can make the journey more challenging. Most travelers fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport and then drive to Ngorongoro, a journey of about 4-5 hours. Alternatively, you can fly into Arusha and take a shorter drive.

It’s advisable to use a 4×4 vehicle for the journey, as the roads can be muddy and slippery. Experienced drivers familiar with the conditions are essential, especially if you plan to explore more remote areas.