7-Day Ndutu Calving Season (Dec–Mar)
A one-week safari focused on the wildebeest calving in Ndutu and southern Serengeti. From December to March, thousands of calves are born and predators are active. Travel in a private 4×4 with an experienced driver-guide. Start and finish in Arusha. You can fly to and from the Serengeti to save time.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha (or Zanzibar) → Ndutu / Serengeti South
Morning pickup. Fly or drive to the Ndutu area.
Afternoon game drive on the short-grass plains.
Dinner and overnight in Ndutu.
Day 2: Ndutu — full day
Sunrise game drive to look for newborn calves and predators.
Picnic lunch or hot lunch at camp.
Afternoon drive across the plains and acacia woodlands.
Overnight in Ndutu.
Day 3: Ndutu — second full day
Follow the herds based on fresh movements and guide updates.
Good chances for cheetah and hyena activity.
Overnight in Ndutu.
Day 4: Ndutu — third full day
Explore a different sector for variety and new sightings.
Sunset on the plains, dinner, and overnight in Ndutu.
Day 5: Ndutu → Central Serengeti
Unhurried game drive north toward Seronera, known for big cats.
Optional hot-air balloon at dawn this or next morning (extra).
Overnight in Central Serengeti.
Day 6: Central Serengeti → Ngorongoro / Karatu
Morning game drive in Seronera.
Drive toward Ngorongoro; optional stop at Olduvai Gorge (entry extra).
Overnight on the crater rim or in Karatu.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater → Arusha
Early descent for a half-day game drive inside the crater.
Picnic by the hippo pool, then return to Arusha or connect to your flight.
Trip ends.
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
English-speaking driver-guide
Park and conservation fees, including crater descent fee
Six nights in mid-range lodges or tented camps with private ensuite
Meals as per itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
All local transfers in Arusha and to or from airstrips if flying
International flights
Domestic flights if you choose to fly (can be arranged on request)
Visas and travel insurance
Optional activities such as hot-air balloon and Olduvai entry, spa, and personal expenses
Drinks at lodges or camps other than drinking water
Tips for guide and lodge staff
Note: Calving usually peaks in January and February. The herds follow the rains, so sightings are never guaranteed. Your guide will adjust each day to be in the best areas.