
This 4-day Wildebeest Calving Season Safari takes you to the Ndutu area, located in the Southern Serengeti and part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This region is the best place to see the Great Migration during the calving season, which happens between December and March.
During this time, over 500,000 baby wildebeest are born on the open plains. The grass is short, making it easy to spot animals, and the flat landscape gives perfect views for photography and game drives. With so many newborns around, predators like lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards are also very active; so there is a good chance to see dramatic hunting scenes.
Arusha | Ndutu Area – Southern Serengeti | Ngorongoro Crater | Arusha
Best Time to Visit:
July – October (River Crossings)
4-Day Wildebeest Migration Safari detailed itinerary
- Highlights: Calving Season, Big Cats, Great Migration Herds
- Safari style: Private safari with handpicked Mid Range lodges
🗓️ Day 1: Arusha – Drive to Ndutu Area (Southern Serengeti)
Your safari adventure begins with a morning departure from your hotel in Arusha. After meeting your professional safari guide, you’ll head west toward the Ndutu area, located between the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Southern Serengeti. The drive takes about 6–7 hours with game viewing en route. You'll pass through scenic landscapes, Maasai villages, and wildlife-rich areas before arriving in Ndutu. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy an afternoon game drive. Settle into your mid-range tented camp surrounded by nature.
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🛏️ Accommodation: Ndutu Heritage Camp or Ang’ata Ndutu Camp
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🍽️ Meals: Lunch & Dinner
🗓️ Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Ndutu Area
Today is dedicated to a full day of game drives in the Ndutu plains, where the Great Wildebeest Migration calving season is in full swing. This is the time when thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles give birth on the fertile plains. With so many newborns around, predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas are never far away, making this one of the best times to witness hunting scenes and survival moments. Enjoy your picnic lunch in the bush and continue exploring until late afternoon before returning to your camp.
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🛏️ Accommodation: Ndutu Heritage Camp or Ang’ata Ndutu Camp
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🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🗓️ Day 3: Another Full Day Game Drive in Ndutu Area
After breakfast, head out for another thrilling day in the Southern Serengeti ecosystem. Your guide will take you to different corners of Ndutu in search of big cats, rare interactions, and massive herds of animals. Since the wildlife is always on the move, no two days are ever the same here. You may also explore Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek, great spots for birdwatching and wildlife photography. This is your last full day in the wilderness, so soak up the beauty and stillness of Africa’s raw nature.
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🛏️ Accommodation: Ndutu Heritage Camp or Ang’ata Ndutu Camp
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🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🗓️ Day 4: Morning Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater – Return to Arusha
After an early breakfast, you’ll drive toward the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most iconic wildlife areas in Africa. Descend into the crater for a 5–6 hour game drive on the crater floor. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Big Five, including black rhinos, elephants, lions, and buffalos, as well as flamingos, hippos, and many other species. After your game drive and picnic lunch, begin the drive back to Arusha, where your unforgettable safari ends in the late afternoon.
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🍽️ Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
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🚙 End of tour: Drop-off at your hotel or Kilimanjaro Airport (on request)
✅ What's Included
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All park entry and conservation fees
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Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
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Professional English-speaking guide
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3 nights’ accommodation in mid-range tented camps
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All meals as specified
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Bottled drinking water during the safari
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Pick-up and drop-off in Arusha
❌ What's Not Included
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International flights to/from Tanzania
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Travel insurance
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Visa fees
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Tips & gratuities
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Optional Maasai village visit ($20)
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Personal expenses (alcohol, laundry, etc.)

Important Notes for the 4-Day Wildebeest Migration Safari
📌 Why Visit During the Calving Season?
- See Baby Wildebeest Being Born
Each year, around half a million baby wildebeest are born in the Ndutu plains between January and March. It’s a special time when you can see new life begin, right in front of your eyes. The sight of tiny calves standing up and walking just minutes after birth is something you will never forget
- Watch Big Predators in Action
With so many newborn animals around, predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas are very active. You’ll have a high chance of seeing them hunt and interact with their prey. This makes the calving season one of the best times for exciting game viewing.
- Perfect Time for Wildlife Photography
The flat, open plains of Ndutu have short grass, which makes it easy to spot animals and take great photos. The light is also beautiful in the early morning and evening. Whether you have a professional camera or just a smartphone, you’ll get amazing pictures of wildlife, babies, and predators.
- Less Crowded Than Peak Migration Season
Unlike the busy months of July to September when the river crossings happen, the calving season has fewer tourists. This means more peaceful game drives, better chances to enjoy animals without many other vehicles around, and a more relaxed safari experience.
- Great for All Types of Travelers
This safari is a good choice for families, photographers, honeymooners, or anyone who loves nature. It’s not rushed, the wildlife action is close by, and the experience is truly magical for both adults and kids.
Best Time to Book
The Ndutu Calving Season happens from late December to March, but the peak calving months are January and February. This is when most baby wildebeests are born, and predator activity is at its highest.
Because this season is very popular and camps get full quickly, we recommend booking early—at least 3 to 6 months in advance—to get the best camps and guides.
📩 Ready to Book or Customize Your Safari?
Contact us now to get a quote, check availability, or personalize this 4-day wildebeest migration safari. We’re happy to help you plan your dream African adventure!