Ngorongoro (Tanzania) and Ol Pejeta (Kenya) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Ngorongoro | Ol Pejeta | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Tanzania | Kenya |
| Type | Reserve | Private conservancy |
| Approx. area | 8,292 km² | 360 km² |
| Best time | January to February and June to September | June to October and December to March |
| Suggested stay | 1–2 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | Low risk: check with a doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Ngorongoro | Ol Pejeta |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| February | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| April | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| May | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Ngorongoro if
- you are travelling in May and November
- you want hiking and cultural visits
- you hope to see wildebeest, flamingos and ostriches
Choose Ol Pejeta if
- you are travelling in March and December
- you want night drives
- you hope to see white rhino and chimpanzees
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Ngorongoro or Ol Pejeta?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Ngorongoro is stronger in May and November. Ol Pejeta is stronger in March and December.
When is the best time for each?
Ngorongoro: January to February and June to September. Ol Pejeta: June to October and December to March.
Sources: Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority · NCAA - Tourism attractions · Climates to Travel - Ngorongoro · Ol Pejeta Conservancy · Ol Pejeta Conservancy - Wildlife and habitats · Climates to Travel - Nyeri (nearest station)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.