Ngorongoro is one of the best choices for photographers.
Suitability: ★★★★★
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area in northern Tanzania is run by its own authority, and Maasai pastoralists live alongside the wildlife. Its centrepiece is Ngorongoro Crater with abundant resident game, and the area also holds major archaeological sites.
Why Ngorongoro for photographers?
- Chances to photograph lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants and black rhino.
- The best light is in the first hour after sunrise and the last before sunset.
What awaits you in Ngorongoro
- Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact, unflooded volcanic caldera
- Good chances of black rhino on the crater floor
- Olduvai Gorge museum and the Laetoli footprints
- Hikes to Empakaai and Olmoti craters
- Maasai pastoralism alongside wildlife
Wildlife you may encounter: lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, black rhino, buffalo, giraffes and zebras.
Suggested time on the ground: 1 to 2 days. The crater rim is reached by road from Arusha via Karatu, about 4-5 hours from Kilimanjaro airport; Lake Manyara airstrip is relatively close.
Activities that fit
game drives and birdwatching.
When to go
The best period overall is January to February and June to September.
Dry season; nights on the crater rim are cold and can drop below 10°C.
Other destinations for photographers
- Okavango Delta Botswana
- Masai Mara Kenya
- Merzouga Morocco
- Mana Pools Zimbabwe
- Tarangire Tanzania
- Chobe Botswana
Full Ngorongoro guideBest safaris for photographers
Frequently asked questions
Is Ngorongoro good for photographers?
Ngorongoro is one of the best choices for photographers.
When should I visit Ngorongoro for photographers?
Generally January to February and June to September.
What should I know before booking?
Chances to photograph lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants and black rhino.
Sources: Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority · NCAA - Tourism attractions · Climates to Travel - Ngorongoro
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.