December to March (Calving Season)
The calving season in the Ndutu area is one of nature's greatest spectacles. From December to March, hundreds of thousands of wildebeest give birth on the southern Serengeti plains, attracting predators in extraordinary numbers. This safari combines the migration calving grounds with the Central Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
With two nights in the Ndutu area and two nights in the Central Serengeti, you will have ample time to witness the herds and the predator action that follows them. Midrange lodges and tented camps throughout ensure comfort after long days of game driving.
Depart Arusha after breakfast and drive to Tarangire National Park (approximately 2.5 hours). Full day of game driving among the massive elephant herds, tree-climbing lions, and ancient baobab trees that define this park. The Tarangire River draws wildlife from across the region. Overnight at Marera Valley Lodge or Farm of Dreams Lodge in Karatu.
Drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend to the Ndutu plains on the southern Serengeti. During calving season, thousands of wildebeest and zebras gather here in enormous herds. The open short-grass plains make for exceptional wildlife viewing. Overnight at Ndutu Heritage Camp or Ang'ata Migration Camp.
A full day exploring the Ndutu calving grounds with packed lunch. Follow the migration herds across the plains. The calving season brings intense predator activity as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunt among the newborns. This is one of the most dramatic wildlife experiences on Earth. Overnight at the same camp.
Depart Ndutu and drive north into the Central Serengeti, the best year-round safari area in Tanzania. The Seronera valley and surrounding plains are rich with resident wildlife. Afternoon game drive through the kopje-dotted landscape. Overnight at Serengeti Heritage Camp or Thorn Tree Camp.
A full day of game driving across the Central Serengeti plains and kopje areas. The Seronera region is known for excellent lion, hyena, and cheetah sightings. The rocky kopjes shelter leopards and provide vantage points over the endless plains. Packed lunch in the bush. Overnight at the same camp.
Final morning game drive in the Serengeti before driving to the Ngorongoro Highlands. Arrive in the late afternoon and settle in at your lodge on the crater rim. The views from the highlands are breathtaking. Overnight at Rhino Lodge or Ang'ata Ngorongoro Camp.
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater early in the morning for a half-day safari on the crater floor. The crater is home to approximately 25,000 large animals including lion, elephant, buffalo, hippo, and the endangered black rhino. After lunch, drive back to Arusha. Drop-off at your hotel or Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Embalaka Camp, Ngorongoro
Farm of Dreams, Karatu
Into Wild Camp, Serengeti
Exact lodges and camps may vary depending on availability. You will always stay at accommodation of equal or better standard.
We can adjust the duration, accommodation level, or add extra parks. Every itinerary is flexible.
May–Jul
From $2,500
Grumeti River crossings and predator encounters.
Jul–Oct
From $2,900
Three nights at the Mara River for dramatic crossings.
Year-round
From $3,600
Ten days following the herds across every region.