Climate and monthly weather forecastNgorongoro, Tanzania

The climate of Ngorongoro

Situating Ngorongoro in the geographical landscape of Tanzania, a clear understanding of its climate classification arises - the Köppen Climate Classification labels this environment as Cwb. This designates it as a temperate highland tropical climate with dry winters.

Given a year-long insight into its weather conditions, several patterns emerge. Extremely consistent, highs dance between 23.7°C (74.7°F) during the coldest months and can climb to around 28.9°C (84°F) in the hottest. Similarly, the lows traverse a short distance from 13.3°C (55.9°F) to 17.5°C (63.5°F), ensuring minimal variations in temperature.

Rainfall holds a major influence over this locality, experiencing a distinct dry period with as little rainfall as 2mm (0.08") to 3mm (0.12") spread over a mere three to four days. By contrast, the wettest months display a staggering 124mm (4.88") of precipitation spread over 24.1 days.

Ngorongoro also flaunts an impressive number of sunshine days, peaking at 24.9 days and only dropping to a still admirable 8.3 days during cloudier months. Even when the clouds do roll in, visibility remains relatively strong at an average of 8km (5mi) to 10km (6.2mi). The presence of cloud coverage never exceeds 47%, even during the most overcast days, keeping the skies predominantly clear.

The best time to visit Ngorongoro

Efficient planning of a visit to Ngorongoro should consider multiple factors to ensure a pleasant experience. The month of August marks the optimum time to travel when the weather conditions align ideally. Sunshine is encountered for maximum hours reaching 9.8 hours per day in this month, the wind is at its gentlest at 10.9km/h (6.8mph), and cloud cover is at a yearly low of 23%. Furthermore, the region encounters a scanty rainfall of 2mm (0.08") over three days, distinguishing it as one of the driest months.

The worst time to visit Ngorongoro

Contrarily, travellers may want to reconsider a visit during April, which is marked by climatic extremes. The rain gauges measure a substantial 124mm (4.88") of rain, which is more than any other month. The skies tend to be overcast with 47% cloud cover. A decrease in sunshine duration to 8.3 hours also obstructs plenty of outdoor activities.

Spring weather in Ngorongoro

Putting a spotlight on the spring months, March to May lead to a noteworthy increase in rainfall, from 98mm (3.86") advancing to a peak of 124mm (4.88"). This period also sees a simultaneous dip in the number of sunshine days, falling to a low of 3.6 days by April. Cloud cover goes on the rise to reach a remarkable 47% by April, resulting in a slightly cooler and wet environment than previous months.

Summer weather in Ngorongoro

Summer months of June to August denote a sudden cessation of the rains. Downfall drops dramatically from 37mm (1.46") to as low as 2mm (0.08") by August. The number of sunshine days starts to increase steadily, reaching a high of 24.6 days in August. The temperature spectrum is mildly spread with highs wavering from 23.7°C (74.7°F) to 25.3°C (77.5°F) and lows fluctuating from 13.3°C (55.9°F) to 14.2°C (57.6°F). The overall environment is considerably dry and warm across these months.

Autumn weather in Ngorongoro

In the autumn period from September to November, temperatures begin a slow ascent again, eventually reaching a high of 27.9°C (82.2°F). Rain measures see a steady recline; starting modestly at 3mm (0.12") and escalating to 72mm (2.83") by November. Sunshine-filled days dwindle slightly to 17.7 days in October, and the cloud cover also starts to moderately peak at 35% by November.

Winter weather in Ngorongoro

Winter in Ngorongoro, spanning from December to February, welcomes a surge in average temperatures, hovering between highs of 27.2°C (81°F) to 28.9°C (84°F) and lows between 16.4°C (61.5°F) to 17.5°C (63.5°F). Notable is the increase in rain measures, peaking at 103mm (4.06") in December. A gradual decrease in sunshine days from 12.3 to 8.6 days also characterizes this colder season. These months are marked by slightly warmer but wetter conditions with increased cloud coverage up to 36%.

Weather in January

The first month of the year in Ngorongoro, Tanzania witnesses a subtle decline in temperature from December with lower humidity, favoring outdoor activities. The persistent warmth from daytime to nighttime keeps the landscapes visually appealing, as they are rarely cloaked in mist or fog. Weather in January »

Weather in February

In February, Ngorongoro's weather presents a slightly warmer and drier scenario compared to January. Despite marginal fluctuations in cloud coverage, daylight prevails, allowing ample opportunities for wildlife spotting. The UV index remains consistent, along with improved visibility accentuating outdoor experiences. Weather in February »

Weather in March

March is characterized by weather conditions transitioning toward the more humid side in Ngorongoro, with a slight drop in temperature from February. This period fosters the lushness of biodiversity through an increased frequency of rainfall and a relative uptick in cloud cover. Weather in March »

Weather in April

Orchestrating a dramatic shift in Ngorongoro's weather dynamics, April arrives with peaks in relative humidity and rainfall amidst cooler temperatures. The landscapes don the robust hues of equatorial biodiversity, providing an amplified spectacle for wildlife viewing under generous daylight hours. Weather in April »

Weather in May

Continuing from April's trend, weather in Ngorongoro during May showcases elevated humidity, often culminating in scattered showers. However, the sense of erratic weather begins to subside as the daylight hours remain steady and the cloud cover begins to thin. Weather in May »

Weather in June

As the calendar turns to June, Ngorongoro, Tanzania experiences a remarkable calm in weather, displaying remarkably dry conditions, and a slight drop in temperature. Prolonged sunshine hours under clear skies invite outdoor enthusiasts, while the gentle breeze makes exploration comfortable. Weather in June »

Weather in July

Adopting the weather pattern of June, July in Ngorongoro continues to serve as a sought-after period for wildlife viewing. The climate retains its dry temperament under cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall, while the daylight span remains consistent. Weather in July »

Weather in August

In August, Ngorongoro's weather continues the trend of pleasant conditions with a minor rise in temperatures and a negligible change in rainfall. A clear sky dotted with sparse clouds allows for longer sunshine hours, enhancing the visual spectacle of diverse flora and fauna. Weather in August »

Weather in September

The arrival of September in Ngorongoro brings with it a subtle rise in temperature, a slight drop in wind speed, and marginally lower humidity compared to August. This period yields the year's lowest cloud coverage and promotes generous daylight spans, enriching the wildlife viewing experience. Weather in September »

Weather in October

Ngorongoro's weather, in October, exhibits a gradual incline in temperature and cherishes increased daylight hours while retaining a minimal rainfall pattern. Nature continues to flourish under the generous sunshine, creating favorable conditions for wildlife sighting and photography. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Ngorongoro, Tanzania showcases a notable shift towards a warmer, more humid climate accompanied by increased rainfall. However, the daylight and sunshine hours remain consistent, offering enough scope for observing wildlife in their natural habitats. Weather in November »

Weather in December

Weather in December in Ngorongoro witnesses a continuation of November's trend with a slight rise in temperature, a significant downpour, and a gentle surge in humidity. Despite the increased rainfall, the cloud cover reduces, allowing remarkable visibility across the breathtaking landscapes of Ngorongoro. Weather in December »