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Ndutu Conservation Area

Ndutu Conservation Area: A Front-Row Seat to the Great Migration

Ndutu Conservation Area

All About Ndutu Conservation Area

The Ndutu Conservation Area is located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in northern Tanzania, is a prime safari destination famous for its role in the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every year, between December and April, over 1.5 million wildebeests, along with zebras and gazelles, gather in Ndutu’s lush grasslands to give birth. This calving season attracts numerous predators, including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, making Ndutu a hotspot for dramatic wildlife encounters.

Unlike national parks, Ndutu Conservation Area allows off-road game drives, providing visitors with unparalleled close-up wildlife experiences. With its expansive plains, seasonal lakes, and rich biodiversity, Ndutu is a must visit for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to witness the raw beauty of the African wilderness.

The best time to Visit Ndutu Conservation Area

When is the Best Time to Visit Ndutu Conservation Area?

The best time to visit Ndutu Conservation Area depends on what you want to experience:

Calving Season (Peak Season)

December to March. The Great Wildebeest Migration reaches Ndutu, with thousands of births occurring daily. Predator action is at its highest.

Green Season (Low Season)

April to May. Lush landscapes dominate, but wildlife disperses. Fewer visitors mean lower rates and a quieter safari.

Dry Season (High Season)

June to November. The migration moves north toward the Serengeti, but resident wildlife remains. This is an excellent time for fewer crowds and great game viewing.

Ndutu Conservation Area Weather and Climate

Weather and Climate in Ndutu Conservation Area

Month Temperature (°C) Rainfall (mm) Season
January – February 26°C (Day) / 15°C (Night) Low Dry/Peak Season (Calving)
March – May 24°C (Day) / 14°C (Night) High Wet Season (Green Season)
June – October 22°C (Day) / 12°C (Night) Low Dry Season
November – December 25°C (Day) / 14°C (Night) Moderate Short Rains

How to Get to Ndutu Conservation Area

Ways to Travel to Ndutu Conservation Area

By Road: Ndutu Conservation Area is accessible via Arusha, with a 6 to 7 hour drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season.

By Air: The nearest airstrip is Ndutu Airstrip, served by daily flights from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar via regional airlines like Coastal Aviation and Auric Air. From the airstrip, lodges provide transfers to the conservation area.

Google Map of Ndutu Conservation Area

Ndutu Conservation Area Map Showing its location

The below Ndutu Conservation Area Map shows the exact location. Expand it to see more details, surrounds, and directions of where you could be coming from, to help you access it easier and better.

Ndutu Conservation Area Fees Entrance

Park Fee Entrance to Ndutu Conservation Area

Category Citizen (TZS) Resident (USD) Non-Resident (USD)
Adults 10,000 30 70
Children (5-15 years) 5,000 10 20

Fees are subject to change; check with the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) before visiting.

To pay for Park Fees, you will have to visit the Tanapa Account, create an account, and select Ndutu Conservation Area to pay for the park fees.

  1. Online Payment:

Some parks allow online payment of park entrance fees, and some do not. Always check official websites for updated data on how to pay your park fees online.

You can generate a permit ticket at the park entrance gates and pay using your preferred payment method like credit card or M-pesa.

2. Payment at Park Gates:

Some parks accept payments at the entrance via mobile money or credit cards. Always ask your Tour operator, our team member, or the national park authority to check if you can pay at the park gates.

Most National Parks accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. American Express is not recommended.

Most national parks do not accept Cash payments; if it happens they do, then it should be in both Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) or USD.

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