Calving Season Safari

Ngorongoro | Serengeti
Recommended 7 Days | 6 Nights

Overview

Witness the Circle of Life during calving season in Tanzania, one of nature’s most magical and heartwarming spectacles. A Calving Season Safari Itinerary in Tanzania with focus on the incredible birthing season in the Ndutu region while incorporating luxury and convenience.

With Wild Rhythms Safaris, you’ll enjoy expert guidance, exclusive access, and luxury accommodations as you experience the beauty, drama, and wonder of this extraordinary season in the Serengeti.

Why Choose a Calving Season Safari in Ndutu?

1) Witness the Circle of Life: During the calving season (January to March), over 500,000 wildebeest give birth in the lush Ndutu plains, creating one of nature’s most magical and heartwarming spectacles.

2) Predator Action: The abundance of vulnerable newborns draws predators like lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals, offering incredible opportunities to witness dramatic predator-prey interactions.

3) Unique Wildlife Behavior: Calving season is not just about the wildebeest—it’s a time of heightened activity for the entire ecosystem, showcasing fascinating wildlife dynamics.

4) Perfect for Photography: The green landscapes, soft light, and abundance of wildlife make it an ideal time for photographers to capture breathtaking moments.

5) Fewer Crowds: Compared to other migration events, calving season in Ndutu offers a more exclusive and intimate safari experience.

6) Accessible Safari Options: The Ndutu region allows off-road game drives, enabling you to get closer to the action and enjoy an immersive wildlife experience.

Sample Trip Outline

Day 1 Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport

Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will be greeted by a Wild Rhythms Safaris representative. Transfer to your hotel in Arusha for an overnight stay, where you will rest after your international flight. Accommodation options: Gran Melia Arusha

Day 2 Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater Rim (Optional Game Drive at Lake Manyara)

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive where you’ll have the opportunity to spot lions, elephants, black rhinos, and a variety of plains game in the world’s largest unbroken caldera. Picnic lunch on the crater floor, then continue exploring the diverse ecosystem. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.

Day 4: Ngorongoro to Ndutu (Southern Serengeti)

Drive to the Ndutu region, the epicenter of the calving season and begin exploring the Ndutu plains, focusing on wildebeest herds, predators, and other wildlife. Accommodation Options: Lake Masek Tented Camp: A luxury tented camp overlooking Lake Masek. Nyikani Tented Camp: An intimate camp offering excellent access to wildlife hotspots. Siringit Serengeti Camp: A boutique camp combining comfort and adventure.

Day 5: Arrival & Calving Season Game Drive

Arrive in the Ndutu Region, located in the southern Serengeti ecosystem, where the Great Migration pauses for the calving season (typically January to March). Set out on a late afternoon game drive to witness the plains teeming with newborn wildebeest calves, vulnerable yet remarkable. Expect intense predator activity as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas patrol the grasslands. Return to camp for a peaceful evening surrounded by the sounds of the savannah. Accommodation: Luxury mobile or semi-permanent camp near Lake Ndutu – ideal for close wildlife encounters.

Day 6: Balloon Safari & Predator Action

Begin the morning with an optional hot air balloon safari, offering a breathtaking aerial view of the calving herds and endless green plains. Continue with a guided game drive, focusing on predator-prey drama and intimate scenes of the calves learning to stand, run, and survive. Spend the midday relaxing at camp, enjoying the calm before the evening’s drive to capture the region’s golden light and action-packed moments. Wildlife Highlights: Wildebeest calving – tens of thousands of births daily Predator encounters – lions, cheetahs, hyenas in pursuit Plains game – zebras, gazelles, jackals, and vultures in abundance Accommodation: Continue your stay at your Ndutu camp, offering front-row seats to the drama of new life and survival.

Day 7: Fly Back to Arusha (Day Room Option)

Take a scenic flight from the Serengeti (Ndutu Airstrip) to Arusha. Depending on your departure flight time, enjoy a day room at either: Gran Meliá Arusha Katambuga House Legendary Lodge Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your departure.

Inclusions:

We’ll tailor your experience with a personalized itinerary and pricing to match your preferences.

All internal flights (Manyara to Serengeti, Serengeti to Arusha) Accommodations as specified All meals and drinks at camps and lodges Private safari vehicle with driver-guide Game drives and activities as per itinerary Park entry fees and conservation fees Airport Transfers

Exclusions:

We’ll tailor your experience with a personalized itinerary and pricing to match your preferences.

International Flights Gratuities and personal Experiences Travel Insurance Any Additional activities not listed in the itinerary

Ready to Plan Your

Tanzania Safari?

Start your journey with Wild Rhythms Safaris — where every itinerary is customized, every experience is authentic, and every step is guided by passionate local experts. Whether you’re chasing wildlife in the Serengeti or relaxing in Zanzibar, we’re here to turn your dream into a real adventure.

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