Join an unforgettable 6-day Ndutu calving safari in Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Witness the calving season and incredible wildlife in these iconic parks.

What to See –

The Ndutu area, located in the southern part of the Serengeti, is the epicenter of the calving season, which occurs from January to March each year. During this time, the Ndutu plains transform into a vast maternity ward for over 500,000 wildebeest, with zebras and gazelles also giving birth. It’s one of the most amazing wildlife spectacles you can witness: the young wildebeest (often only hours or days old) struggling to stand and begin walking, while the ever-present predators such as lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards track their movements, waiting for an opportunity to hunt.

The calving grounds in Ndutu are extremely rich in wildlife, with the landscape dotted with newborns and their protective mothers. This is also the peak of the Great Migration, and while the wildebeest are giving birth, many others are preparing to continue their migratory journey across the Serengeti plains.

Beyond the calving spectacle, the Ngorongoro Crater, another jewel of this safari, offers a compact but rich ecosystem where you can see the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos—against a stunning backdrop of lush vegetation and volcanic landscapes. The crater is home to a range of animals that thrive in the rich soils and water-filled areas, with large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles making up a substantial part of the prey base, keeping predators active throughout the year.

Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, is another highlight of this safari. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and an array of bird species. During the dry season, Tarangire boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Tanzania, as animals gather around the Tarangire River, making for excellent game-viewing opportunities.

How to Dress on Safari:

For a comfortable experience, it is recommended to wear:

1. Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, brown, or green) to blend in with the environment.
2. Light, breathable fabrics for warm daytime conditions.
3. A fleece or jacket for cool mornings and evenings.
4. Comfortable closed shoes or hiking boots for game drives and optional nature walks.
5. A wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
6. A light rain jacket if traveling during the green season.

What to Carry on Safari:

Ensure your safari is as enjoyable as possible by packing the following essentials:

1. Clothing: Light, neutral-colored outfits for blending into the environment
2. Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for game drives and short walks
3. Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat
4. Gear: Camera & binoculars for capturing wildlife moments
5. Layering: A light jacket for early mornings and evenings
6. Essentials: Personal medications and a basic first aid kit

Best Time to Travel & Safari Seasons:

The best time to visit Ndutu is during the calving season from January to March, as this is when the action reaches its peak. The southern Serengeti, including Ndutu, becomes the prime location for witnessing the calving of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles, and the predators are in full force, hunting for these vulnerable newborns.

1. Dry Season (June - October): This period offers excellent wildlife viewing across Tanzania, as animals are concentrated around water sources. While the calving season is over, it’s still a great time for predator-prey interactions across the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park.
2. Green Season (November - May): The green season is marked by lush landscapes and fewer tourists. January to March is particularly ideal for the calving season in Ndutu, when the landscape is full of newborn animals, and the predators are on the prowl. This season is not only fantastic for wildlife enthusiasts but also for photographers who can capture the vibrant life of the Serengeti.

This 6-day Ndutu Calving Safari is one of the most extraordinary ways to experience Tanzania’s wildlife drama at its finest. Whether you're here for the Great Migration, the calving season, or the chance to see predators in action, Ndutu, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire offer an incredible safari experience that will stay with you forever.