Calving Plains & Predators

Calving Plains & Predators

Witness the Great Migration’s calving season in Ndutu and the Southern Serengeti, featuring newborn wildebeest, vast herds, and thrilling predator encounters.

5 DaysFrom USD 2,700

Experience one of nature’s most remarkable wildlife spectacles on this 5-day Tanzania Calving Season Safari. Travel to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu region, where thousands of wildebeest gather between January and March to give birth on the nutrient-rich plains.

Witness newborn calves taking their first steps, large herds moving across the grasslands, and dramatic predator activity involving lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards. Combined with visits to the Ngorongoro Crater and other wildlife-rich areas, this safari offers exceptional game viewing, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable moments in the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Arusha

You will arrive at JRO (Kilimanjaro International Airport) where you will be warmly welcomed by your driver guide. Afterward, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Arusha, where you can enjoy dinner and relax overnight. A pre-safari briefing will also be held to prepare you for the adventure ahead..
Mid-range accommodation
Under the Shades Safari Lodge
Luxury accommodation
Arusha Coffee Lodge
High-end accommodation
Gran Melia Arusha

Day 2: Arusha – Southern Serengeti.

Early in the morning, after breakfast at your hotel in Arusha, you will be transferred to Arusha Airport for your scheduled flight to the Ndutu area, located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area at the southern edge of the Serengeti ecosystem. The drive from your hotel to Arusha Airport is approximately 8 km and takes about 20 minutes depending on traffic. Upon arrival at Ndutu Airstrip (flight time is approximately 1 hour), you will be warmly welcomed by your professional driver-guide and begin your first exciting game drive in the southern Serengeti. This region is particularly famous between December and March as it hosts part of the Great Migration, with massive herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles giving birth and grazing on the nutrient-rich plains. You will spend the day exploring the Ndutu plains and surrounding woodlands, observing wildlife in their natural habitat and capturing stunning views of the vast savannah. In the late afternoon, you’ll drive to your specially arranged safari camp for some well-deserved relaxation. Enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars followed by an overnight stay in the heart of the wilderness. Estimated driving distance (game drive within the park): 30–80 km depending on wildlife movement Game viewing duration: 4–6 hours.
Mid-range accommodation
Sounds of Nature Tented Camp
Luxury accommodation
Serengeti Melia Lodge
High-end accommodation
Dunia Camp

Day 3: Southern Serengeti.

Wake up surrounded by the breathtaking wilderness of the southern Serengeti’s Ndutu area! After an early breakfast, you’ll set off for another exciting day of game drives. During this time of year, the Ndutu plains are lush and green, providing fresh grazing grounds for the massive herds of wildebeest. Many of them remain here, feeding on the rich grasses and continuing to give birth to their young. This period is not only crucial for the survival of the wildebeest calves but also a spectacular sight, as the landscape is dotted with new life. Predators are ever-present, aware that this is a time of abundance, and you may witness dramatic scenes of survival and instinct. The cycle of life plays out vividly here, making the Ndutu area one of the best spots to witness nature at its rawest. You’ll carry packed lunch to maximize your time in the bush, continuing to explore different areas throughout the day. In the late afternoon, return to your lodge/camp for dinner and another overnight stay under the Serengeti skies.
Mid-range accommodation
Untamed Migration Camp
Luxury accommodation
TNS Lake Ndutu Luxury Tented Camp
High-end accommodation
Olakira Migration Camp

Day 4: Southern Serengeti – Karatu Town (Crater Highlands).

After an early breakfast, you will depart from the Southern Serengeti Ndutu area and begin your journey toward Karatu town, enjoying a game drive en route. The drive takes you through the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering spectacular views of the crater from various viewpoints along the way. The distance from Ndutu to Karatu is approximately 150 kilometers and typically takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on wildlife sightings and road conditions. You will carry a picnic lunch to enjoy during a break along the way. This final day of safari allows for one last memorable game drive experience as you explore the rich landscapes and wildlife of the southern plains before ascending toward the crater highlands. Upon arrival in Karatu, you will proceed to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay, marking the end of your unforgettable safari adventure. High End Accommodation: The Manor Ngorongoro
Mid-range accommodation
Bougainvillea Safari Lodge
Luxury accommodation
Neptune Ngorongoro Lodge
High-end accommodation
The Manor Ngorongoro

Day 5: Karatu Town – Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha.

after an early breakfast at your lodge in Karatu, you will depart toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, located about 20 kilometers away, which takes roughly 30 minutes by drive. Upon arrival at the crater rim, you will descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater—one of the largest intact volcanic calderas on earth—for a full day of game drives and exploration. With your packed lunch, you'll enjoy a picnic inside the crater while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and a rich diversity of wildlife, including the possibility of spotting the Big Five. After exploring the crater floor, you will ascend back to the crater rim in the afternoon and begin your journey back to Arusha, a drive of approximately 190 kilometers taking around 4 to 5 hours. Upon arrival in Arusha, you will proceed to the airport to catch your international flight onward, marking the end of your safari experience.

Pricing

NETT COST CALVIN SEASON(January, February, March and December.)

1 person

3,845USD*

2 persons

2,700USD*

3 persons

2,385USD*

4 persons

2,225USD*

5 persons

2,130USD*

6 persons

2,065USD*

* Rates are per person and may vary with availability and final itinerary.

Included

  • All transport, 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof for game viewing
  • Hotel and lodge accommodation as detailed
  • Bottled drinking water
  • Services of various local guides
  • All National Park entrance and camp site fees
  • All food - breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals
  • Donations and payments to local community projects
  • Flight from Arusha to Southern Ndutu Area

Not included

  • International flights
  • Local Flight from Seronera to Zanzibar
  • Travel and personal accident insurance
  • Visa, passport, vaccinations, and medicines
  • Tips (While tipping is not obligatory, it is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for your guide's hard work and dedication in making your trip memorable. A recommended amount is US$30 per day.)
  • Expenditure on personal bar bills (including all additional drinks), souvenirs, personal items
  • Optional excursions/activities not detailed in itinerary
  • any additional services requested