Ngorongoro (Tanzania) and Pilanesberg (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Ngorongoro | Pilanesberg | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Tanzania | South Africa |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 8,292 km² | 550 km² |
| Best time | January to February and June to September | July to September |
| Suggested stay | 1–2 days | 1–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Big Five | Present | Present |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Ngorongoro | Pilanesberg |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| April | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| 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 | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Ngorongoro if
- you are travelling in November to March
- you want hiking and cultural visits
- you hope to see flamingos, gazelles and ostriches
Choose Pilanesberg if
- you are travelling in April to May and July to September
- you want night drives and hot-air balloon flights
- you hope to see white rhino, crocodiles, African wild dogs and kudu
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Ngorongoro or Pilanesberg?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Ngorongoro is stronger in November to March. Pilanesberg is stronger in April to May and July to September.
When is the best time for each?
Ngorongoro: January to February and June to September. Pilanesberg: July to September.
Sources: Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority · NCAA - Tourism attractions · Climates to Travel - Ngorongoro · North West Parks Board · Pilanesberg National Park - travel information · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Pretoria, Mahikeng)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.