the ngorongoro serena safari lodge

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro, Tanzania – Excellent location - show map

Cleanliness

Value for money

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This property is beautifully located on the edge of the crater, my room had a magnificent view with a spectacular sunrise. The staff are very friendly and helpful. The hotel is well suited to a solo traveler.

It was a great breakfast just next to a great lanscape. you can enjoy the view of the grongoro crater perfectly.

Spectacular location, very comfortable rooms, great lodge.

Perfect location, absolutely stunning to see the magnificent Ngorongoro crater from the comfort of the lodge. Especially sunrise is breathtaking. The stay itself is a unique experience. Staff are very well trained and very attentive to guests, they all have shown us true East African natural hospitality.

The attention of the staff is really great. We were so happy.

Stunning views over the Ngorongoro Crater from every room. It is this that is the principal reason to choose this Hotel. Everything else was OK but not spectacular. In our case we were particularly disorganised about all our park permits as we self organised the trip, not using a safari company, and a flight delay took our park entry past 6 PM. It was all sorted with help from the hotel but then we were fortunate to have got the mobile phone number of a particularly helpful manager; this turned a potentially disasterous trip into a great one!

The location and view are amazing, the staff is very friendly, the structure and food were great too.

The rooms have fantastic views over the crater and are very comfortable. The heating system works well and is needed at nights. The bar and restaurant have similarly great views and is lovely to chill out and relax. The Wi-Fi works well and reasonably fast. The lodge is close to the descending and ascending roads to the crater- both of which are paved and don’t present too much of a driving challenge The staff are all very helpful. If self driving, it is useful to know the lodge does have repair work shop where basic repairs can be done.

The view from the rooms is breathtaking. The staff is very kind and professional.

Great location over looking the crater to see the sunset and sunrise. Food great for breakfast and dinner. We got packed lunches as well. The hotel had a Masai show in the evening- which was a bonus.

Excellent location!

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Experience world-class service at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Located 20 km from Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge provides accommodation with a restaurant, a bar and room service for your convenience. The lodge features both WiFi and private parking free of charge. There is a private bathroom with shower and free toiletries in each unit, along with a hairdryer. A buffet, continental or Full English/Irish breakfast can be enjoyed at the property. Lake Magadi is 21 km from Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, while Olduvai Gorge Museum is 37 km away. The nearest airport is Lake Manyara Airport, 59 km from the accommodation.

Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.8 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

• Airport shuttle (free)
• Room service
• Family rooms
• Free parking
• Non-smoking rooms
• Tea/coffee maker in all rooms

Property highlights

Top location: Highly rated by recent guests (9.6)

Breakfast info

Continental, Italian, Full English/Irish, Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal, Gluten-free, Kosher, Asian, American, Buffet

Free private parking available on-site

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Availability

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Property surroundings

Restaurants 1 restaurant on site.

• Open for Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner

Facilities of Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge Great facilities! Review score, 8.6

• Toilet paper
• Bath or shower
• Private bathroom
• Free toiletries
• Wardrobe or closet
• Landmark view
• Outdoor furniture
• BBQ facilities Additional charge
• Electric kettle
• Clothes rack
• Tour or class about local culture Additional charge
• Evening entertainment Additional charge
• Hiking Additional charge
• Seating Area
• Wine/champagne Additional charge
• Special diet menus (on request)
• Tea/Coffee maker
• Accessible parking
• Concierge service
• Luggage storage
• Currency exchange
• Express check-in/check-out
• Babysitting/child services Additional charge
• Daily housekeeping
• Laundry Additional charge
• Meeting/banquet facilities Additional charge
• CCTV outside property
• CCTV in common areas
• Smoke alarms
• Security alarm
• 24-hour security
• Safety deposit box
• Shuttle service Additional charge
• Designated smoking area
• Mosquito net
• Packed lunches
• Airport shuttle
• Wake up service/Alarm clock
• Spa/wellness packages
• Massage Additional charge

See availability House rules

From 12:00 to 18:00

Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in

From 10:00 to 11:00

Cancellation/ prepayment

Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required room.

Children and beds

Child policies

Children of any age are welcome.

To see correct prices and occupancy information, please add the number of children in your group and their ages to your search.

Cot and extra bed policies

Prices for cots and extra beds are not included in the total price, and will have to be paid for separately during your stay.

The number of extra beds and cots allowed is dependent on the option you choose. Please check your selected option for more information.

All cots and extra beds are subject to availability.

No age restriction

There is no age requirement for check-in

Pets are not allowed.

Accepted payment methods

Cash Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge accepts these cards and reserves the right to temporarily hold an amount prior to arrival.

The fine print Need-to-know information for guests at this property

-Kindly note that park fees are payable to park authorities upon arrival at the Ngorongoro Crater Conservancy gate.

-Please ensure you have your hotel voucher which is required before paying park fees.

-Park entry timings are strictly 6am - 6pm daily.

-Road or air transfers to the lodge can be arranged at a fee.

-Please get in touch with the lodge to arrange transfers at least 72hrs prior to your travel date.

-Travel related expenses are not included in the rate.

Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.

Please inform Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge in advance of your expected arrival time. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly with the contact details provided in your confirmation.

In response to Coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.

Due to Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property is taking steps to help protect the safety of guests and staff. Certain services and amenities may be reduced or unavailable as a result.

In accordance with government guidelines to minimise transmission of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property may request additional documentation from guests to validate identity, travel itinerary and other relevant information, during dates where such guidelines exist.

FAQs about Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

How far is ngorongoro serena safari lodge from the centre of ngorongoro.

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is 3.7 miles from the centre of Ngorongoro. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

What kind of breakfast is served at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge?

Guests staying at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge can enjoy a highly-rated breakfast during their stay (guest review score: 7.5).

• Continental
• Full English/Irish
• Gluten-free

Is Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge popular with families?

Yes, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is popular with guests booking family stays.

What is there to do at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge?

• Evening entertainment
• Tour or class about local culture

What are the check-in and check-out times at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge?

Check-in at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is from 12:00, and check-out is until 11:00.

Does Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge have a restaurant on site?

• Restaurant #1

How much does it cost to stay at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge?

The prices at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates you select, hotel's policy etc.). See the prices by entering your dates.

What type of room can I book at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge?

• Twin/Double

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Ngorongoro serena lodge, lemala ngorongoro camp.

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Ngorongoro Conservation Area near the Lake Magadi , Central Plains and Lerai Forest

Best Months to Visit

January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

Most Known For

• Perched on the edge of the famous Ngoro Crater
• Cozy 'mountain lodge' atmosphere
• Sweeping views of the crater floor
• Spacious rooms with private viewing terraces

Private Game Drives, Sundowners, Cultural Tours

Rhino, Lion, Hyena, Elephant, Warthog, Cheetah, Jackal, Eland, Serval Cat, Hippo, Flamingo

Suspended on the jagged rim of the Crater, this lodge offers panoramic views. Cloaked in dense forest, the stone built lodge blends in beautifully with its natural surroundings. As your land rover navigates the rocky road leading up to the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, keep an eye open for resident elephants known to leisurely much on leafy greens - right in the lodge's backyard! Crackling fire places inside the common areas add warmth to the "mountain lodge" atmosphere.

Lodge Overview

Accommodations, food & drink, special features.

Suspended on the jagged rim of the Ngorongoro Crater , with sweeping panoramic views of the crater floor, is the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge. Cloaked in morning mist and dense forest, the stone built lodge blends in beautifully with its natural surroundings. As your land rover navigates the rocky road leading up to the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge, keep an eye open for resident elephants known to leisurely much on leafy greens - right in the lodge's backyard!

The exterior of the buildings, as well as many of the interior walls and massive vertical columns, are wrapped in smooth boulder-like lava rocks that climb to the top of the soaring ceilings and wreath the arched entrances of the main hallways. Much of the stonework outside is draped in moss or ivy and the lush gardens surrounding the lodge compliment its overall appearance. Take a step back in time as you peruse the prehistorically themed interior of the lodge, lit by lanterns and firelight. The passages are decorated with wooden carvings, Maasai artifacts and tribal spears. Delightful "cave-wall" paintings of animals are charmingly stained on the textured stucco walls of the main dining room, as well as each individual sleeping room.

Crackling fireplaces inside the common areas add warmth to the "mountain lodge" atmosphere, and are especially cozy since the temperatures outside can be quite chilly at this elevation. Gaze at the jaw-dropping views of the crater floor offered from majestic picture windows that line the lounge and dining room, or better yet from the seclusion of your room's own private balcony; each individual room offers its own stunning view of the retired volcanic cauldron below. From its ideal hilltop location, the lodge's panoramic visual of the crater floor and sparkling soda lake below is both breathtaking and surreal.

The Ngorongoro Crater itself is a dramatic amphitheatre of life, surrounded by the steep jagged walls of the collapsed volcano that created it. So you've gotten up early and asked the staff to pack a picnic breakfast to not miss any action? Good choice! There is a special atmosphere in the crater at the light of dawn not to be missed. You'll notice the top of the rim is chilly and clad with mist in the early morning.

As your land rover descends the winding road from the top of the ridge to the crater floor, you'll gradually emerge from the clouds and notice a steady shift in both temperature and scenery.

The leafy forest and morning chill are slowly but surely replaced by sparser vegetation and warmer air. Eventually the landscape melds into the tawny grasslands of the crater floor, which are teeming with big game. Early morning in the crater is a time of spellbinding beauty and special solitude (since many of the less ambitious tourists are still sleeping.) Luminous clouds that hung low in the night now roll dramatically above and pile up against the emerald crater wall, just not quite high enough to escape the rising sun. Shafts of morning sunlight filter through the billowing clouds and create bold shadows that shift and dance below. As the sun rises the air continues to warm. The whistling breeze sweeps down the steep walls and over the grasses at the crater floor, seeming to whisper of ancient memories of the fiery volcanoes that created this mythical place.

There is dramatic scenery to behold here, and yes the geological history is very intriguing, but the real stars of this show are the ANIMALS! For as far as the eye can see, you will be surrounded by generously sized herds of all types of animals, all taking haven in what has been called "Africa's Garden of Eden." Gazelles and buffalo, wildebeest and zebra, elephant and even the rare black rhino live in concentrated numbers here. There is a realistic chance that you will actually be able to see cheetahs hunting in such a confined area. The lions in the crater are certainly not tame, but they are somewhat used to vehicles, and you may just find them seeking shade in the shadow of your land rover! Hyenas and other smaller carnivores like the serval cat also make this beautiful place home.

Travel to the western edge of the crater and enter the magical Lerai forest. Ancient trees draped in vines rise up from a deep leafy carpet of ferns and wide banners of tropical leaves. Look for sly leopards perched high in the tree boughs, hiding in the leaves and dappled light. Also watch for elephants ambling through shady thickets. Emerge from the forest and keep your eyes open for a sighting of the rare black rhino! During a delightful picnic lunch you'll be able to stretch those legs and watch for hippos spouting water in the spring pool nearby. As the sun continues to rise throughout the day, you'll want to shed that sweater and maybe peel off those zippered pant-legs. Get your cameras ready as you journey to the sparkling soda lake and witness thousands of pink flamingos preening and reflecting in the still waters - a fantastic sight.

After a thrilling day on safari in the crater, gather around a roaring fireplace in the lounge and share stories of charging rhinos, leaping lions and trumpeting elephants. The day's adventures have surely worked up an appetite, and a feast fit for a king is served buffet style in the main dining room. With such a varied display of fresh and delicious foods, everyone will find something that suits their craving. Retreat to your room with a drink or just collapse into your cozy bed from the excitement of the day's activities and lose yourself in fantastic safari dreams.

The Ngorongoro Serena Lodge consists of 75 comfortable and spacious rooms. These rooms are elegant and well appointed with classy leather headboards, brass lamps, simple nightstands and a quaint writing desk. Charming sketches, or "cave paintings", of African animals are featured on the pale stucco walls in true tribal style. Each room has a separate bathroom that boasts a contemporary vanity, hairdryer and spacious walk-in shower. Accommodations at this lodge are heated, making for a very comfortable "climate controlled" stay in spite of the lodge's lofty elevation and correspondingly low temperatures, especially at night. The highlight of each sleeping room is the private stone terrace, accessed by full glass doors, that offers sweeping views of the crater floor below and blue mountain ranges in the hazy distance. See if you can make out the giant herds of animals with your binoculars from the comfort of your own room!

Delightful wooden carvings, artifacts and stylish accessories are tastefully arranged in the common areas of the lodge, and a well-stocked gift shop allows you to browse unique souvenirs for all those less fortunate folks you left back home. A vibrant mosaic of colored wooden inlays wrap the framing of the main bar in pleasing geometric patterns, while a ring of bar stools welcome the weary traveler to sit and relax over a refreshing beverage. A roaring fireplace in the main lounge provides the perfect central gathering space for sharing tall tales of the day's adventures, and is surrounded by a white washed stucco enclosure trimmed in smooth stones and lined with dark wooden benches. With a charming resemblance to totem poles, wooden columns line the interior of the vaulted dining room, dyed white and artfully carved to display patterns of teak color beneath. Massive picture windows offering magnificent views of the crater are available in the dining room, bar and lounge areas. The staff is very friendly and a drink in the lounge after a day out game driving the infamous crater is a good option.

Ngorongoro Serena Lodge is perched on the edge of the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater between the Serengeti and Lake Manyara National Park. It lies within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which covers more than 3000 square miles of pristine African wilderness.

The lodge is situated at the rim of the crater at an elevation of about 7,000 feet. It can get quite cold at night and in the early morning so make sure to pack appropriate attire. On the contrary, expect highs on the crater floor where you will be spending the majority of your day in the upper 70s and lower 80s so it's best to layer your clothing.

The Ngorongoro Crater is very small at only about 10 miles across. With just one game drive in the Crater, it is possible to circumnavigate the crater several times and see all the main highlights. However, every safari we offer includes two separate game drives in the Crater over a course of two days including one early morning 6AM drive.

The goal on the early morning game drive is to be the first person in the Crater that day. Animals are generally more active morning, which makes the early morning game drive option an excellent choice. Accordingly, we highly recommend only one night at the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge (allows for 2 separate game drives) on all shorter duration safaris. Only on longer duration safaris would it be advisable to spend a second night at the Ngorongoro Serena Lodge.

The food and service at Ngorongoro Serena Lodge is excellent. Breakfast is quite a spread and is served buffet style in the dining room. It consists of a large assortment of fruits, cereals, breads, eggs and bacon. However, if you do want to try and be the FIRST vehicle in the crater you may choose to have the staff pack you a picnic breakfast to go! Our standard itineraries typically include an early morning game drive (6AM) in the crater. This is a superb game drive and includes a bush breakfast from the Serena Lodge. After an hour or so game driving in the early morning or when you get hungry, you will stop to indulge in a bite to eat by Ngoitokitok Springs. It is highly recommended to go early to avoid the crowds that will inevitably drift in come late morning, not to mention that you will want to witness the spectacular ambience and wildlife viewing that the crater itself offers at dawn.

The best option for lunch is to arrange a picnic down on the crater floor either by the hippo pool or the small scenic lake. Alternatively, lunch is also offered at the lodge but we highly recommend opting for a serene picnic to maximize your time in the crater and minimize the time on the long bumpy road to that navigates the crater wall to and from the lodges.

Dinner at the lodge features wonderful food with international flair, and is quite a large production. A large buffet is available to hungry travelers in the beautiful main dining room, featuring a smorgasbord of fresh soups, crisp salads, newly prepared entrees and mouthwatering desserts. There is a good variety of beer, wine and cocktails available at an additional charge.

• Private game drives
• Explore the famous archaeological site and museum at Olduvai Gorge
• Maasai boma cultural visit
• Picnic lunches
• Visit the bizarre shifting sands
• Televisions in the main lounge
• Vibrant cultural entertainment, including traditional music and dance
• Herbal massage, hair styling and beauty treatments
• Well stocked safari boutique and gift shop
• Internet access
• A full library of books on Africa and a wide range of board games
• Full housekeeping services (laundry, valet, babysitting on request, children's menus, shoeshine.)
• Hairdryers and telephones in all rooms
• 24 hour electricity
• Full medical back-up and emergency evacuation facilities

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Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is one of the few luxury lodges/ accommodation that are located inside Ngorongoro conservation area few kilometers away from the Ngorongoro airstrip. Its adjacent to the famous Ngorongoro crater just a few miles away, it borders the Laetoli Footprints

Stay at one of the best lodges in Ngorongoro conservation Area, overlooking the crater at your balcony with great scenic view of the crater with its surrounding raised cliffs of volcanic walls. Ngorongoro Serena Safari lodge has 74 guest rooms and one suite which gives enough privacy and comfort to our guest with high class services. The lodge is constructed with natural materials especially stones to give conservation first priority, the stone balcones are opened to give the guest clear view of African wonders, the scenic landscape and the blue green vastness of the ngorongoro crater floor which is below the lodge.

Ngorongoro Serena Safari lodge has both Stand rooms and suites:

Standard rooms at Ngorongoro Serena Safari lodge have enough space with king size beds, elegant interior spaces decorated with local materials that makes one feel the norms and culture of Africa. The Rooms are from Single occupancy, Double and twin or triple occupancy accommodating from 1 person to three people in the room. All our rooms are self-contained with clean ensuite bathrooms and toilets.

Standard room package comes with free Wi-fi, Coffee/tea making station, Mineral water, work desk and chair, 24-hour room services, meals, laundry, Eco boutique bath amenities and private balcony.

The Kimba Suite : This is a luxurious suite fit for the family, it has a fully stocked mini bar with private balcony that directly overlooks the  Ngorongoro crater.

Ngorongoro Serena Safari lodge offers well prepared delicious meals both traditional dishes and international dishes. The dining is well designed with the African art that makes your dining environment more elegant and attracts appetite for the best meals. Breakfast and lunches are served in Buffet with a wide range of options for one to choose from, we offer full English breakfast as well as European options.  The dining table menu has salad buffet, soup, cheese and vegetables that cater for all the vegetarians.

Breakfast served from 6:30 am to 9:30am

Lunch 12:30pm to 2:30 pm

Dinner 7:30 to 9:30 pm Bush dinner is only served during summer season at the great crater view point.

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Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

About Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

The Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is a 75-room hotel, built in 1996, with a truly outstanding location: ...

... it's built into the western rim of Tanzania's UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater. The lodge is usually used as a base for visits into the crater, and has views of the magnificent caldera from all the bedrooms and most of the public areas. The Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge doesn't pretend to be anything other than a large hotel. Its design lacks personality and it feels a bit dated. That said it has benefitted from a soft refurbishment and it is comfortable, functional, warm. It is also one of only a handful of lodges right on the edge of Ngorongoro Crater. So whilst its size means it won't be everyone's first choice, its location and affordability will tempt many to stay here.

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Traveller reviews of Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

13 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.

Arrived 29 Feb 2024, 1 nights

"Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge review"

Overall rating: Good

Arrived 8 Mar 2024, 1 nights

Arrived 21 Feb 2023, 1 nights

Arrived 2 Mar 2023, 1 nights

Arrived 10 Sep 2022, 2 nights

Overall rating: Excellent

Arrived 7 Jun 2022, 2 nights

"Great Location!"

Arrived 21 Jul 2021, 2 nights

Arrived 1 Aug 2019, 2 nights

Arrived 11 Oct 2016, 2 nights

"Ideal location in Ngorongoro"

Arrived 8 Mar 2016, 3 nights

See all Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge reviews

Expert Africa's gallery

When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 26 pictures of Ngorongoro Serena to get the candid view.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Ngorongoro Serena

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Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge's location

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When to go to Ngorongoro Crater

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Ngorongoro Serena in Ngorongoro Crater

Tanzania in January

January usually marks the start of the short dry season, although the exact timings of this are a little unpredictable. You can expect clear blue skies and sunshine, if the short rains have stopped, and the temperatures will be building. The short dry season is a little less pronounced in Southern Tanzania, and so it can still be wet in these areas. It is an interesting time for avians as resident birds go into breeding plumage and migrant species can be present. Once the New Year busy period has quietened down, January can offer great value and quieter parks, although the weather can be variable, and in the Selous and Ruaha the wildlife is more dispersed.

• Variable weather: clear & dry or cloudy with some rain.
• Occasional thunderstorms may occur.
• A good time of year for birding as and many migrant species are around
• The wildebeest migration is gathering in the southern Serengeti.
• Busy in early January, quietening down through the month.

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Tanzania in February

February is during the short dry season and is one of the hottest months in Tanzania, with temperatures reaching around 33°Celsius. This can be a good time to visit, as some areas of the Northern Circuit are comparatively quieter than during the European summer months, and lodge rates are also a little lower. The wildebeest will typically be on the southern plains of the Serengeti for their calving season, which tends to occur in a 2-3 week window in early-mid February – although this does vary year on year. This is also a particularly rewarding time for birdlife, as northern hemisphere migrants join the resident species.

• Hot and dry weather.
• Wildebeest migration calving on Serengeti’s southern plains.
• Ngorongoro Crater and southern Serengeti busy for the migration.
• Selous and Ruaha are typically quiet at this time.
• The parks are likely to be lush and green, leading to pretty landscape

A very good time to visit

Weather in February

Tanzania in March

The heavier ‘long rains’ start in earnest in March although exactly when varies year on year. With no need to stay close to permanent water sources, migratory wildlife disperses, and so game viewing starts to become more challenging. This is most prominently seen in Tarangire National Park. The wildebeest migration may still be calving, or have moved on into the central regions of the Serengeti. Many of the camps in the southern parks close mid March and mobile tented camps in the Serengeti will wind down towards the end of the month in order to move location or carry out refurbishments, ready for the new tourist season.

• Hot with building humidity, before the rains begin at some point.
• Wildlife viewing is variable depending on the start of the rains.
• Parks are quiet and rates are low.
• Not great for southern or western Tanzania.
• March can be a good time for birding, with many migrant species.

Weather in March

Tanzania in April

April is in the middle of the long rainy season and is the wettest month, with on average 250mm of rain. Temperatures are fairly high and humid in comparison to the rest of the year. Expect the bush to be lush and flowering, and alive with insects, birds and smaller animals. It is however also dense, allowing wildlife to hide, which in turn makes game viewing harder. This is a very quiet time in terms of visitor numbers. Many of the tented camps are closed in April, however the larger lodges remain open. The rates are significantly cheaper, and so if you are willing to work harder to spot the bigger game, some accommodation bargains can be had.

• Heavy rain expected, with impressive thunderstorms and lightning.
• Many camps closed and roads impassable due to ground conditions.
• Rates are at their lowest all year round, with very few other tourists
• Places that are open are green and vibrant, wildlife more dispersed.

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Tanzania in May

As Tanzania is close to the equator there is no dramatic difference in climate throughout the year, but temperatures do start to drop a little in May. The rains are likely to still be present, although potentially clearing towards the end of the month. Visitor numbers and lodge rates are still low. The wildebeest migration is making its way through the western regions of the Serengeti, crossing the Grumeti River. Virtually all camps in southern Tanzania remain closed, and many of the roads and tracks in the Selous become impassable.

• Heavy rains and storms are likely, this can create some dramatic skies
• Blissfully quiet in northern Tanzania, and a good time to avoid crowds
• The parks are likely to look lush and green, with long grass.
• Wildlife is likely to be more dispersed, with fewer sightings.
• The low prices make safaris much more affordable at this time.

Weather in May

Tanzania in June

The rains come to an end at some point during the month and migratory wildlife begins to be drawn back to perennial water sources as the land starts to dry up. It’s likely that the parks will still be quite green and the grass high though, so walking and fly-camping may be unlikely. This marks the start of the season with camps reopening, but prices are still more affordable than the subsequent months. The migration may still be in the Western Corridor, or on the move northwards towards the Mara River. Western Tanzania presents more challenging conditions for chimpanzee trekking in Mahale National Park, as the chimps are higher in the mountains.

• A transitory time for the migration – moving from west to north.
• The parks may still be quite green, and grasses high.
• Wildlife may be dispersed still.
• Relatively low visitor numbers and good value, shoulder season prices.

Weather in June

Tanzania in July

July is considered to be the start of the peak season, with no rainfall expected and pleasant daytime temperatures. As the parks dry, the wildlife congregates in fewer areas, grass is eaten and trampled by the migration, and game viewing gets better and better. The wildebeest are typically arriving in the northern Serengeti, ready to begin their period of crossings of the Mara River. In the Selous and Ruaha wildlife sightings can be fantastic, with animals gathering around the lakes and rivers. Great conditions and school holidays mean the parks are at their busiest, with Ngorongoro and the Serengeti particularly crowded.

• Dry and warm daytimes, chilly and windy in the mornings and evenings.
• Great wildlife viewing, as water sources diminish.
• The most popular time of year with very high visitor numbers.
• Prices are at their highest due to the great conditions on the ground.
• To avoid the crowds consider Tanzania’s southern parks.

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Tanzania in August

August is the middle of the long dry season, with clear skies and sunny weather. You can expect some cooler weather at night and first thing in the morning. Remember to pack layered clothing, so you can wrap up warm on your early morning game drives, but remain comfortable as it heats up throughout the day. August is a very popular time to visit, so accommodation prices are at their highest and advanced booking is necessary. It can get noticeably busier in some of the northern parks – in particular the Ngorongoro Crater and northern Serengeti, as visitors flock to the area in hope of witnessing an exciting migration river crossing.

• Dry and warm daytimes, chilly in the early mornings and evenings.
• General wildlife viewing should be excellent.
• An exciting time of year for the wildebeest migration.
• Certain areas will be very busy and camps fill up fast.
• Great wildlife sightings in the Selous and Ruaha, and fewer people.

Weather in August

Tanzania in September

September can be an excellent time of year to visit Tanzania. As the parks continue to dry up the wildlife becomes increasingly reliant on the remaining water sources, leading to high densities of animals. Whilst early September can be busy, with fewer families traveling at this time the parks typically become quieter as the month goes on. You are still likely to see the wildebeest migration in the northern Serengeti, with river crossings occurring on a regular basis. Tanzania’s southern parks are also fantastic at this time of year, generally receiving far fewer visitors than the north, and wildlife sightings can be great. Prices remain high and the weather generally remains good.

• Wildlife viewing in September can be fantastic.
• Whilst still fairly busy, often the parks are typically a little quiet
• The parks will start to become very dry, with little new vegetation
• Cooler mornings and evenings, warming up during the day.
• Prices remain high.

Weather in September

Tanzania in October

At the tail end of the dry season, the wildlife should be the easiest to spot, although photographers should be aware that it can be a bit dusty at this time of year, as there has been no rain for several months. Great general wildlife viewing throughout as animals are attracted to remaining sources of water. Elephant numbers are particularly high at this time in Tarangire, and Mahale and Katavi are especially rewarding with frequent wildlife sightings close to camp. There is a chance of rainfall towards the end of the month, if the short rains commence. While prices remain high, visitors numbers are significantly lower than in July-August.

• Mostly dry and temperatures comfortably warm, with the chance of storm
• Great game viewing although the landscape can be a bit barren.
• Much lower visitor numbers than the earlier months.

Weather in October

Tanzania in November

In November you can expect the start of the short rains, although the start date varies every year. The rains are highly localised, and are much lighter and more unpredictable than the long rains that occur earlier in the year. These should not really interfere with your safari – as the game viewing at this time is still good - but you should pack a waterproof jacket and be prepared for some short rain showers! The majority of tented camps remain open, but some of the mobile camps in Northern Tanzania will close for the latter half on the month. Given the seasonality, camps are charging shoulder season rates so there are often some bargains to be had. Early November can offer great value for money and the weather conditions are likely to be comparable to late October.

• Parks are comparatively quiet and prices at the lower end.
• Some camps will close towards the end of the month for maintenance.
• Good wildlife sightings, but animals will disperse when rain starts
• The wildebeest migration is on the move and the location unpredictable

Weather in November

Tanzania in December

December is also during the short rainy period, but this does not stop Tanzania being a popular destination to spend the festive period. Be aware that many of the lodges book up early, and charge peak rates over this time. Advanced booking is essential over this period, especially if travelling in larger family groups. Travelling in December outside of the festive period allows travellers to make use of excellent shoulder season rates. Temperatures are pleasant with the averages of 27Celsius, although there is the chance of intermittent thunderstorms.

• Variable weather:clear & dry or cloudy with some rain and thunderstorm
• Good general game viewing in parks with low seasonality - Serengeti.
• Very quiet early in the month, becoming exceptionally busy.
• Prices reflect this – great value rising to the highest they are.
• The wildlife in southern Tanzania is more dispersed.

Weather in December

Other areas in Tanzania

Dar es Salaam

Mafia Island

Tanzania Coast

Lake Manyara

Mahale Mountains

Pemba Island

Mikumi & Udzungwa

Fanjove Island

Rubondo Island

Lake Natron

Lupita Island

Tanzania fact file

Useful information and advice to help you prepare for a trip including Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Flights to Tanzania

How to get to and within the country

LGBT travel in Tanzania

Attitudes, the law & our experiences

Privately guided safaris

Safari with a private guide in your own 4WD

The Great Wildebeest Migration

Info to maximise the experience

Tanzania general info

Essential travel information

Tipping in Tanzania

Expectations & guidelines for tipping

Weather & climate

The best time to visit Tanzania

Excursions from Ngorongoro Serena

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Ngorongoro Serena. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.

Empakaai Crater Hike

Half day, two - three hour walk

Spend a half day hiking through the Empakaai Crater, in the Highlands area of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), led by an experienced guide and accompanied by a ranger.

Lake Manyara Safari

Half-day or full-day

Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara National Park makes a great safari destination. Here, along with elephant herds and plains game, you’ll find jungle-like forests that are home to blue monkeys, a soda lake tinged pink by flamingos and some of Tanzania’s best birding.

Mto Wa Mbu Village Walk

Two to three hours

Discover the nuances of day-to-day life in the large Tanzanian village of Mto Wa Mbu with a knowledgeable local guide. This is not a village set up for tourists – Mto Wa Mbu is a real community and offers a chance to see a side of Tanzania that many visitors pass by.

Olduvai Gorge visit

One - two hours

See for yourself the renowned archaeological site of Olduvai (or Oldupai) Gorge, which lies en route between the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti National Park. Famed for the discoveries of early hominin remains as well as the Laetoli Footprints, the site offers beautiful views, an engaging museum and potentially the opportunity to visit an active dig.

Olmoti Crater walk

Half day - two to three hour walk

Follow an ancient Maasai cattle trail on this private hike up the Olmoti Crater, led by an experienced guide and accompanied by an armed ranger. The crater may not compete in size with the neighbouring Ngorongoro Crater, but the birding is good, the mountain views wonderful, and the array of ferns is a botanist’s dream.

Safari in Ngorongoro Crater

Typically a full day

To drive into the Ngorongoro Crater is to immerse yourself in a renowned wildlife park. Prides of lion and clans of hyena patrol amongst herds of zebra, wildebeest and Thomson’s gazelle, whilst flocks of crowned cranes keep out the way of jackals. Come for elephants with big tusks, too. And then there are the rhino…

Other lodges in Ngorongoro Crater

Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Plantation Lodge

A relaxed base between Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara, Plantation Lodge has lush grounds and offers good value and high standards.

Located not far from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Gibb's Farm has comfy rooms, homegrown food and strong community links

Lemala Ngorongoro

Lemala Ngorongoro is a small, comfortable tented camp on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater with lovely walking in the vicinity.

Crater Lodge

The ultra-luxurious Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is perched in a spectacular location on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater.

The Highlands

The Highlands is a unique camp near Olmoti Crater, north of Ngorongoro, offering drives, walks and cultural visits from a beautiful remote setting.

Entamanu Ngorongoro

Opened in 2016, Entamanu Ngorongoro is a small camp high on the Crater rim with views towards the crater and the plains of the Serengeti.

Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge

Situated on the eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, with outstanding views, the Sopa Lodge is a somewhat dated, international-style hotel.

Rhino Lodge

Rhino Lodge is a simple, good-value lodge with a great location near the crater rim, in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Farmhouse Lodge

Ngorongoro Farmhouse Lodge is set on a 750-acres working farm. Close to the NCA gate, it makes a great base for exploring the Crater.

Rhotia Valley Ttd. Lodge

Rhotia Valley is a simple lodge with a strong commitment to the local community, including a children's home, which guests may visit.

Bougainvillea Lodge

Bougainvillea Safari Lodge provides an economical base from which to visit Lake Manyara or the Ngorongoro Crater.

The Manor is a smart, family-friendly Cape-Dutch-style lodge, offering high-quality service and food in very comfortable surroundings.

Wildlife Lodge

Stay at the Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge while on road safari in Northern Tanzania's spectacular Ngorongoro Crater area.

Neptune Ngorongoro

Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge is a smart hilltop lodge with log-style cottages set close to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Kirurumu Ngorongoro

Kirurumu Ngorongoro is a tented camp situated near the Ngorongoro Crater, with seven guest tents.

Ngorongoro Fly-Camp

Explore the remote northern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater on a two-day hike and spend the night in this small fly-camp.

Country Lodge

Country Lodge is conveniently located on the edge of Karatu and provides a comfortable base for exploring Ngorongoro Crater or Lake Manyara.

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Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

> Ngorongoro

Tanzania’s prehistoric Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Eighth Wonder of the World, has yawned heavenward for millennia. Perched on the edge of Ngorongoro's rocky rim, Serena Lodge has the ultimate in views of the crater floor, straight from its lavish, balcony-ed rooms.

If you want to get closer to the action, it's only a short drive down for game drives amongst enormous pride of lion, cheetah, rhino, buffalo and elephant. Rated one of the top hotels globally, the lodge itself takes its inspiration from the famous "Cradle of Mankind" site at the nearby Olduvai Gorge and the rooms are decorated with stylized cave painting and glowing torches. It's certainly a larger lodge than most, but the location is simply unbeatable.

Ngorongoro Crater

Only in Common Area

No Swimming Pool

Rooms Count:

THE LODGE/CAMP:

A roaring central fireplace forms the lodge's heart and is the place to relax before meals and swap safari tales from the day. There's also a unique split-level main bar and dining area, and large double doors open out onto a viewing terrace that looks down over the crater floor's vistas. Torches hung on the walls provide a warm, relaxing glow in the main areas, reflecting the friendly team's superb hospitality.

Dotted along the crater rim, the 75 suites have astonishing views of the plains below, and each has its own private, rock-enclosed balcony from which to gaze at the myriad of creatures that roam down. Finishing touches include brass lamps, timeless leather headboards, ancient carvings, and unique cave paintings that take inspiration from Africa's first peoples. Central heating also provides a much-need respite from the cold mists that encircle the crater.

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CHECK OUT OUR SAFARI PACKAGES

Discover more above other parks and destinations from our standard packages.

QUICK INSIGHTS:

Staying here allows you to be one of the first on the crater floor in the morning, maximising your game viewing time before the rest of the 4x4 Landcruisers arrive.

Watching the sun dip below the crater rim from your private verandah, wrapped in a blanket is hard to beat.

RATING AND REVIEWS:

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

View prices for your travel dates

Reviews we perform checks on reviews. tripadvisor’s approach to reviews before posting, each tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. if the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines , the review is not published. when the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site. our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines . learn more about our review moderation..

• Excellent 977
• Very Good 612
• Average 195
• Terrible 20
• All languages ( 1,862 )
• English ( 1,495 )
• Chinese (Sim.) ( 122 )
• Chinese (Trad.) ( 111 )

" Be prepared to feel like a package tourist - even if you're not. "

" Avoid this place "

" The crater itself is not nearly as interesting to drive through as it is to view. Get to the Serengeti as fast as possible. "

" Best to find alternate accommodation- this despite the views of Ngorongoro Crater. And, to be honest the top floor view is not to be missed "

" A vistas deste hotel são inacreditáveis... não perca a possibilidade de o visitar. "

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NGORONGORO SERENA SAFARI LODGE - Updated 2024 (Tanzania)

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Things to do in Moscow: how to visit Moscow | Unmissable, cool & unusual

• September 2, 2023

What are the best things to do in Moscow? What to do in Moscow? First, I will list the main places to visit by theme, passing by the must-sees, but also more unusual places in Moscow. Then, I will describe what to see in Moscow in one day and how to visit Moscow in 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Let’s go!

Good to know. For more information, click on the places to open the dedicated blog posts.

Main places to visit in Moscow & best things to do in Moscow

I worked in Moscow and I loved this city for its dynamism and energy. We find there from time to time to see friends, remember good memories and enjoy this giant city! Then the time has come for us to share with you our practical guide.

TOP 5 must-see places in Moscow

• Moscow Red Square
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Bolshoi Theatre

Places of cultural, historical and religious interest in Moscow

• Novodevichy Convent and cemetery
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• Kremlin Izmaïlovo (pseudo-historic place, recently built in the image of the old, one of the best things to do in Moscow for your Instagram account 😉 )
• Park and ancient village of Kolomenskoye

Visit Moscow of the Soviet era

• Moscow State University and Sparrows Hill
• VDNKh and the Museum of Astronautics, one of the key landmarks of the Soviet era in Moscow
• GULAG Museum
• Metro stations
• The Stalinist skyscrapers, scattered all over the city

Less touristy places in Moscow

• Gorky Park and the GARAGE museum
• The old Krasny Oktyabr factory
• Zaryadye Park
• Center for Contemporary Art, WINZAVOD
• Business center, Moscow City

Main districts of Moscow to visit

• Patriarch Ponds
• Tchistye Prudy
• Kuznetsky most
• Arbat Street

However, regardless of the length of your stay, whether you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days or in 2, you need a visa. The article Obtaining a tourist visa for Russia could then be useful in any case.

What to do and see in Moscow in one day?

List of things to see and do in Moscow in one day:

• Go to Red Square
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral
• See Kremlin walls (but not to visit)
• Visit Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Discover Kuznetsky most districts and see Bolshoi Theatre building
• And if you have time at the end of the day: go to the Sparrows Hill or to the Moscow City for a beautiful view

Things to do in Moscow in 2 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, there are 2 purposes: do not miss the essential places of Moscow and optimize travel.

• First day: Red Square , Saint Basil’s Cathedral , Zariadye Park, Bolshoi Theatre , Kremlin
• Day 2: Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the former Krasny Oktyabr factory on Balchug Island, Gorky Park, Moscow State University (one of the Seven Sisters buildings ) and Sparrow Hill

As 2 days os really short, be sure to choose an accommodation in the best districts where to stay in Moscow .

Walking on Red Square in Moscow: one of the unmissable things to do in Moscow

Iconic place and one of the must-see places in Moscow and even in Russia! Besides, if there was only one place to visit in Moscow in 2 days, this place would then be Red Square, without hesitation. Therefore, starting the city tour with Red Square is ideal . Several buildings are on the square, but not all of them have to be visited. Check out my blog post about Moscow’s Red Square in detail to learn more and not miss anything.

Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside

Even more emblematic than Moscow’s Red Square! Built in the middle of the 16th century under the orders of Tsar Ivan Le Terrible, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Orthodox art, and definitely one of the unmissable places in Moscow. Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside is one of the most beautiful things to do in Moscow!

• Visit estimate time : 1h30
• Entry ticket : 700 RUB. Tickets can be purchased on the cathedral’s official website 45 days before the tour.
• Audio guide (recommended): 500 RUB
• Opening hours : June to August 10 am-6pm; from November to April: 11 am-5pm; May, September, October 11 am-5pm. Cathedral closed on Wednesdays. Entrance is closed 45 minutes before closing.
• Find out more in the dedicated article: Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow

Take a walk in Zariadye park: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow after visiting Red Square

Zaryadie Park is just a 10-minute walk from St. Basil’s Cathedral, so it’s easy to include in your itinerary if you’re going to visit Moscow in 2 days. From its heights, you can see the red walls of the Kremlin. But, the most impressive point of view is the platform which overlooks the Moskva river. A must see! And clearly one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

• Open 24 hours a day
• Good to know! Park Zaryadye is also a place to visit in Moscow in winter. Find out more here: What to do in Moscow in winter?

See the Bolshoi Theatre and discover the Kuznetsky Most district

The Bolshoi Theatre is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy entrance tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets

The Bolshoi Theater is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets are located north of the theater. It is therefore very pleasant to find them to leave the main axes of the megalopolis.

Visit the Moscow Kremlin

Visit Kremlin is on top of things to do in Moscow. A place of power for centuries, the Kremlin then shows us a whole different image when viewed from the inside. If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, the Kremlin is certainly one of the must-see places in Moscow.

• Opening hours : Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday.
• See our blog post about visiting the Moscow Kremlin

Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

This impressive Moscow Cathedral is the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a must see if you visit Moscow in 2 days and clearly one of the things to do in Moscow. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior was first built in 1883 in memory of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s Grand Army. Then in 1931 Stalin ordered its destruction. It was then rebuilt again (identically) only in 2000.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 15. At the foot of the Kropotkinskaya metro station.
• Opening hours . Daily: 10: 00-17: 00, except Monday: 13: 00-17: 00
• Free entry (some closing restrictions, for example a short)

Good to know! In orthodox religious places, one must avoid excessively uncovered clothing. Women should cover their heads. After visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you can explore Bolotny Island and Gorky Park. This is one of the routes our guide to Moscow.

The old Krasny Oktyabr factory: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow

If you cross the Moskva River by a pedestrian bridge which is located just in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the city and at the same time you can discover Balchug Island. Furthermore, if you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, you can include this island in your itinerary between the cathedral and Gorky park. Here is the old confectionery factory Krasny Oktyabr, which has gradually turned into a fashionable micro-district. There are then some elements of street art, cafes and restaurants and some Moscow bohemian side. At the end of the island you can see a gigantic 98-meter-high monument dedicated to the Russian reforming tsar Pierre The Great.

Good to know! You can find on this island are the trendiest nightclubs in Moscow. On weekends, there are taxi caps after midnight so there are so many people. On the other hand, if you go there in winter and during the day, the island is quite empty and less interesting to see.

Gorky Park is one of the TOP places to visit in Moscow, because it allows you to better understand the life of the locals and their rhythm. In fact, it’s a huge entertainment park. For example, in winter there is a giant ice rink and in summer – free dance or yoga lessons, sandy beaches for playing volleyball, an outdoor cinema. So, like the locals, have a Stakantchik (ice cream or cooked corn), and enjoy the atmosphere of the place: that’s one of the interesting things to do in Moscow to discover the city.

• Where? Krymsky Val 9. 20 minutes’ walk from Krasny Oktyabr, along the quays.

Sparrow Hill and Moscow State University

The Sparrow Hill, Vorobiovy Gori in Russian, is the highest point in Moscow. It is rather known to Russians, but less to travelers. A nice view on Moscow opens from the hill, and in particular on the Luzhniki Stadium. In addition, on the hill itself is the Moscow State University: an impressive skyscraper from the Soviet era.

• How to get there? By bus T7 (35 min) from Oktyaborskaya station, near Gorki Park. By metro (Vorobiovy Gorki station) + climb the hill on foot. On foot along the Moskva along the Gorky Park (1h30) + climb in funiculars.

Good to know! It is possible to cross the Moskva river by funicular. We actually tested it and it was pretty cool! That is one of our favorite things to do in Moscow!

What to do in Moscow in 3 days?

If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days, it would be interesting to dive into the Soviet era which strongly marked the country and the city. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the capital was transferred from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, in order to mark the change of power. Moscow then became the world showcase for communist ideology. Here are the best things to do in Moscow for 3-day-trip!

VDNKh, visit Moscow of the Soviet era

VDNKh is a large exhibition center in the north of Moscow, where there are still several striking witnesses of the USSR. The most interesting are the Museum of Cosmonauts and the Statue of the Worker and the Kolkhozian , which will certainly impress you with its size!

GULAG History Museum

The explanations of the museum are very well done. We really have the feeling of going back in time. If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days and you are interested in history and this subject in particular, I recommend this museum. Visit the GULAG History Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Moscow.

Discover the Patriarche Pounds district

It’s a nice neighborhood in Moscow where you can come across rather affluent locals, but not necessarily very bling-bling. Take a walk in this area is really a cool thing to do in Moscow! In addition, the Ponds of Patriarch is one of the places of Bulgakov’s novel “Master and Margarita”. As this is an interesting area to see, we have included it in a walking tour of Moscow. The route ends at the Moscow Kremlin, which is very convenient, because you will be able to visit Moscow in 3 days by optimizing your trips.

What to visit in Moscow in 4 days: TOP things to do in Moscow in 4 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 3 days, you will already see a lot of things. On the other hand, if you stay one more day, you have plenty to do! The Novodevichy Convent, the Tchistie Proudy district and the Izmaylovo Kremlin are very good candidates for you, if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days.

Visiting Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent is one of the most brilliant examples of Russian architecture, according to UNESCO. This beautiful complex was built in 1524 and today consists of the convent, but also of a cemetery whose status could be compared to that of Père-Lachaise in Paris. Visiting Novodevichy Convent is one of the great things to do in Moscow, if you want to go a little bit outside of the center!

Discovering Tchistye Proudy district

It’s one of the most popular areas of Moscow, with many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. It is therefore a place to discover if you want to visit Moscow in 4 days. It is just as pleasant for a stroll as for the discovery of local life. For example, in winter the pond turns into an ice rink.

Visiting the Izmaylovo Kremlin, one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

The Izmaylovo Kremlin is more of a tourist than a historic place. On the other hand, it is a pretty impressive place to discover, especially on weekends. Inside the Kremlin, there is a flea market where you can find a little bit of everything, but mostly good souvenirs to bring from Moscow. For example, chapka, traditional Russian scarves or matryoshka (Russian dolls). Add the Kremlin and the Izmaïlovo market to your itinerary if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days, because it is a nice and very colorful place! Visiting the Izmailovo Kremlin is one of the things to do in Moscow, if you want to put colors in your Instagram account! 😉

In 4 days, we will have the opportunity to see several Moscow: Classic Moscow, Moscow of old Russia, Soviet Moscow and a little bit of the new Moscow. So what to visit in Moscow on the 5th day of travel?

What to visit in Moscow in 5 days?

Art lovers will be delighted to discover the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, while others will prefer to stroll along Arbat Street, see the buildings of Moskva-City or visit Bunker 42.

Admiring Russian art at Tretyakov Gallery

Founded in 1856 by an industrialist and great lover of art, the gallery has grown over the decades, and then bequeathed to the state. Today the collection includes more than 140,000 pieces, 15,000 of which are paintings. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is one of the things to do in Moscow if you want to discover Russian art!

• Where? Pereoulok Lavrouchinski 10. A 5-minute walk from Tretiakovskaya station
• Opening hours. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed on Mondays.
• Entry tickets. 500 RUB.

Visiting the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts presents the treasures of ancient Egypt, the paintings of Rembrandt and Cézanne, a fine collection of Impressionism.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 12
• Opening hours. Daily: 10: 00-20: 00, except Thursday: 11: 00-21: 00. Closed on Mondays. The boxes close an hour before closing.
• Entry tickets. The prices vary according to the collections from 300 to 750 RUB.

Walking on Arbat Street

All Russians know Rue Arbat. So, walking on Arbat street is one of the things to do in Moscow. However, after the years, little by little it became very touristy. This is a pedestrian street only. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes there, but it is no longer the most authentic neighborhood in the city.

Seeing the buildings of Moskva-City (Moscow City)

Moskva-City is Moscow’s business center, much like Paris’s Defense district. The skyscrapers of Moskva-City are among the tallest in Europe: 373 meters high! Very nice place to see at dusk.

Good to know! You can admire a nice view of Moscow City from the docks of Tarasa Shevchenko. It’s especially beautiful in the evening with all the lights on.

Bunker 42, one of the most unusual things to do in Moscow

Bunker 42 is a secret military complex which was to be used by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear attack: a space of 7000 m² 65 meters underground!

• Where? 5 Kotelnitcheski Lane, 11.
• Prices. 2200 RUB per person
• Opening hours. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Restaurant inside. Original, but rather a tourist trap.

What to visit in Moscow in 6 days or more?

There are still so many places to see, because Moscow is a big megalopolis and there is always something exciting to do there. For example: the ancient Kolomenskoye village or the WINZAVOD contemporary art center .

If you are interested in history and want to see Russian cities on a rather “human scale”, it would certainly be interesting for you to discover the cities of the Golden Ring . For example, it is very easy to get to Sergey Posad from Moscow (less than 2 hours in train). Visiting the Golden Ring is one of the best things to do in Moscow if you are staying more than a 5-6 days.

There are still plenty of places to see in Moscow, however I did my best to list here the best things to do in Moscow, what to see in Moscow in one day, but also in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Moscow!

Moscow travel tips:

• Airport transfer: how to go to Moscow?
• Where to stay in Moscow (hotels, districts)?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa
• Christmas and New Year in Moscow
• What is the best time to visit Moscow?

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