Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania? If you're planning to go to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
  2. Important essentials for Ngorongoro Conservation Area
  3. Activities for Ngorongoro Conservation Area
  4. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Ngorongoro Conservation Area in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Based on the climate and weather in Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ngorongoro Conservation Area, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania by month

January

If you go to Ngorongoro Conservation Area in January, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

February

If you are traveling to Ngorongoro Conservation Area in February, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

March

March for Ngorongoro Conservation Area is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to get the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

April

Traveling to Ngorongoro Conservation Area in April, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

May for Ngorongoro Conservation Area is mild. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to pick the necessary type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

Traveling to Ngorongoro Conservation Area in June, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

July in this region can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

August for Ngorongoro Conservation Area is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to choose the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

September

September here is mild. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to choose the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

October

October here is mild. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

November

November is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

December in Ngorongoro Conservation Area is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Tanzania has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Ngorongoro Conservation Area may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

What to do in Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of Tanzania's most popular tourist destinations. This vast area, located in the northern part of the country, spans more than 8,000 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The area is also home to the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater, which is a must-see for anyone visiting Tanzania. There are many other top tourist attractions in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area as well. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most popular spots to visit.

1. Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. It is the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, spanning 260 square kilometers. The crater is home to a vast array of wildlife, including buffalo, elephants, giraffes, lions, and more. Visitors can take a game drive to explore the area and enjoy the breathtaking views of the crater.

2. Ol Doinyo Lengai

Ol Doinyo Lengai is an active volcano located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is a popular spot for visitors who are interested in hiking and trekking. The volcano is known for its unique black lava flows, which contrast strikingly with the lush green vegetation surrounding it.

3. Olduvai Gorge

Olduvai Gorge is an important archaeological site located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is often referred to as the "cradle of mankind" because it is where some of the earliest human remains have been discovered. Visitors can explore the gorge and learn about the history of the area and its significance to the development of human civilization.

4. Lake Ndutu

Lake Ndutu is a beautiful freshwater lake located in the southern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is a popular spot for birdwatchers, as the lake is home to a wide variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. Visitors can also enjoy a guided nature walk around the lake.

5. Empakaai Crater

Empakaai Crater is a beautiful, lesser-known crater located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is known for its tranquil beauty and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a guided hike down to the crater floor, where they can see a beautiful soda lake and a variety of bird species.

In conclusion, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of Tanzania's most popular tourist destinations, and for good reason. It is home to some of the world's most stunning natural wonders, including the Ngorongoro Crater and Ol Doinyo Lengai, as well as important historical and cultural sites like Olduvai Gorge. Visitors to the area can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, including game drives, hiking, and birdwatching. If you're planning a trip to Tanzania, be sure to include the Ngorongoro Conservation Area on your itinerary.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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