Ngorongoro (Tanzania) and Tsavo East (Kenya) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Ngorongoro | Tsavo East | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Tanzania | Kenya |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 8,292 km² | 13,747 km² |
| Best time | January to February and June to September | August to September |
| Suggested stay | 1–2 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) | Moi International Airport, Mombasa (MBA) |
| Big Five | Present | Not all five |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | Malaria area: see a travel doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Ngorongoro | Tsavo East |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| February | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| April | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| May | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Ngorongoro if
- you are travelling in April and November to December
- you want hiking, walking safaris and cultural visits
- you hope to see black rhino, wildebeest and flamingos
Choose Tsavo East if
- you are travelling in August to September
- you hope to see crocodiles and oryx
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Ngorongoro or Tsavo East?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Ngorongoro is stronger in April and November to December. Tsavo East is stronger in August to September.
When is the best time for each?
Ngorongoro: January to February and June to September. Tsavo East: August to September.
Sources: Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority · NCAA - Tourism attractions · Climates to Travel - Ngorongoro · Kenya Wildlife Service - Tsavo East National Park · Magical Kenya - Tsavo · Climates to Travel - Kenya (Voi normals)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.