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The 5 Days Ndutu Calving Safari takes you deep into the southern Serengeti plains, where one of the most magical wildlife events in Africa unfolds each year the Great Migration calving season. Between December and March, over 8,000 wildebeest calves are born every day around the lush Ndutu region. It’s a time of abundance, drama, and breathtaking natural beauty that every safari lover should experience at least once in a lifetime.
During this period, the southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains are green, peaceful, and full of life. The short grass plains attract massive herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles as they gather to give birth to their young. This is also the best time for photographers and nature enthusiasts because the landscape is vibrant, the skies are clear, and predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are highly active. The Ndutu calving safari offers a rare chance to witness the raw circle of life up close from newborn calves taking their first steps to thrilling predator action.
Your Ndutu Calving Safari begins upon your arrival in Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania. A friendly representative from Bush Lion Tours will meet you at your hotel to brief you about the upcoming adventure. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the vibrant Arusha town or simply relax and prepare for the days ahead. Dinner and overnight stay will be at a comfortable lodge in Arusha, surrounded by views of Mount Meru and the natural beauty of northern Tanzania.
Accommodation: Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa (Mid-range) or similar – Bed & Breakfast basis.
After breakfast, you will depart Arusha and journey through the scenic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley and the lush highlands of Karatu before descending into the Ndutu plains. The drive offers stunning views and a glimpse of Maasai villages along the way.
By midday, you will arrive in the Ndutu region, located between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the southern Serengeti. This is where the Great Migration herds gather to give birth to their calves. After lunch, enjoy your first afternoon game drive, surrounded by thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles grazing across the green plains. You’ll witness the magic of new life and the watchful eyes of predators lurking nearby. Overnight will be at your tented camp or lodge in the heart of Ndutu.
Accommodation: Ndutu Heritage Tented Camp or Ang’ata Ndutu Camp – Mid-range, Full Board.
This is the highlight of your 5 Days Ndutu Calving Safari. After an early breakfast, set out for a full day of game drives across the open grasslands of Ndutu. The plains are alive with movement as newborn wildebeest take their first steps and learn to run within minutes of birth — a true wonder of nature.
Your guide will position you in the best spots to observe predator action, as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas take advantage of the abundance of prey. The day is also perfect for photography, with golden light and dramatic wildlife encounters at every turn. A picnic lunch will be served in the bush before continuing your exploration. Return to your camp in the evening, where you can relax around the campfire, enjoy a delicious dinner, and share the day’s exciting stories under the African stars.
Accommodation: Ndutu Heritage Tented Camp or Ang’ata Ndutu Camp – Mid-range, Full Board.
After an early breakfast, you’ll enjoy one last morning game drive in the Ndutu plains, capturing the serene beauty of the area as the sun rises over the horizon. Later, you’ll drive toward the Ngorongoro Crater rim, one of the most scenic routes in Tanzania.
The drive offers a chance to see elephants, giraffes, and even leopards hiding among the acacia trees. You’ll arrive at your lodge near the crater in the afternoon for lunch and relaxation. Spend the evening admiring the breathtaking views over the Ngorongoro highlands, where mist rolls gently over the forests as night falls.
Accommodation: Ngorogoro Tortilis Camp – Mid-range, Full Board.
On your final safari day, you will descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, often called “Africa’s Eden.” This natural wonder is home to a rich concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffalo, zebras, and the rare black rhino. The crater floor is a photographer’s paradise, offering some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Tanzania.
After a picnic lunch beside the hippo pool, you will begin your journey back to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon. Your 5 Days Ndutu Calving Safari ends with unforgettable memories of the Great Migration’s calving season a true miracle of life in the Serengeti ecosystem.
Accommodation: Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa (Mid-range) or similar – Bed & Breakfast basis.
At Bush Lion Tours, we combine experience, passion, and comfort to ensure every guest enjoys a safe and unforgettable safari. Our local guides know the Ndutu plains intimately and always strive to position you perfectly for photography and exceptional wildlife encounters. We offer affordable lodge and camping packages, designed to fit your preferences and budget, without compromising on quality or service.
The best time to visit Ndutu for the calving season is from late December to March. During these months, the migration herds settle in the southern plains because of the rich grazing and short green grasses that make it easy for newborn calves to move and run. It’s also a great season for birdwatchers, as migratory birds fill the skies over the Serengeti ecosystem.
Prices (quoted in USD/per person)
| 2 Pax | 3 Pax | 4 Pax | 5 Pax | 6 Pax |
| $3,075 USD | $2,700 USD | $2,600 USD | $2,450 USD | $2,250 USD |
Many travelers ask, “Where exactly is Ndutu?” The Ndutu area lies within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, bordering the southern Serengeti. It’s part of the migratory corridor where the wildebeest herds gather during the calving months.
Another common question is, “Can I see predators during the calving season?” Yes! This is actually one of the best times to witness predator activity. Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are frequently seen hunting in the open plains, taking advantage of the abundance of young prey.
Travelers also wonder, “What type of accommodation is available?” Bush Lion Tours offers a range of options from budget camping to luxury tented lodges, all located in prime wildlife-viewing areas. Each provides comfort, good food, and excellent service, ensuring you are close to nature but always safe and relaxed.
Lastly, “Is Ndutu safe for safaris?” Absolutely. With experienced guides, reliable vehicles, and well-managed lodges, the Ndutu region is one of Tanzania’s safest and most rewarding safari destinations.
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