Tanzania · Safari

3-Day Fly-in Serengeti Calving Season Safari with Ndutu Game Drives

3 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Witness the birth of thousands of wildebeest calves during the calving season
02 Experience dramatic predator-prey dynamics with lions, cheetahs, and hyenas
03 Explore the Ndutu calving grounds in the southern Serengeti
04 See large populations of giraffes, zebras, and gazelles across the plains

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day fly-in safari during the calving season in the Serengeti, where you will witness one of nature's most remarkable spectacles. Typically taking place between January and March, this is a thrilling time to experience the birth of thousands of wildebeest calves, along with the dramatic predator-prey dynamics that follow. Explore the Central Serengeti and the Ndutu region, where vast plains, abundant wildlife, and exceptional game-viewing opportunities make this season especially rewarding.

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day fly-in safari during the calving season in the Serengeti, where you will witness one of nature's most remarkable spectacles.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Serengeti National Park

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Fly from Arusha to Central Serengeti

Morning: Take an early morning flight, typically around 8:00 AM, from Arusha Airport to a Serengeti airstrip such as Seronera in the central Serengeti or Ndutu in the southern Serengeti. The flight takes about 1 hour. Upon arrival at the airstrip, you will be met by your safari guide and transferred to your accommodation, whether a lodge or camp.
Afternoon: After lunch, head out on your first game drive in the Central Serengeti, in the Seronera region. This area is prime for wildlife sightings, especially during calving season. The open plains are filled with wildebeest herds and newborn calves, which attract predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
The Central Serengeti is also known for its large populations of giraffes, zebras, and gazelles.
Evening: Return to your accommodation for a relaxed evening. Enjoy dinner and watch the sunset over the Serengeti plains. Some accommodations offer a sundowner experience.
If you are staying in a luxury lodge or a tented camp, you will be in a prime location to hear the sounds of wildlife as you enjoy the night.

Day 02

Game Drive in the Ndutu Calving Grounds

Morning: After breakfast, head to the Ndutu region, located in the southern part of the Serengeti. This area is particularly known for its calving grounds, where large herds of wildebeest congregate to give birth during the calving season, typically from January to March.
You will witness newborn calves, often just hours or days old, surrounded by herbivores and their predators. This is the heart of the predator-prey drama, where you may see lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunting or stalking.
Midday: Stop for a picnic lunch in the bush or return to your lodge for a midday meal. The Ndutu region is vast and open, offering great opportunities to see wildlife as it roams across the plains.
Afternoon: Continue with your game drive in the southern Serengeti, exploring the Ndutu area further. This is one of the best places to witness the intense action during calving season.
In addition to the wildebeest, you might also spot zebras, gazelles, and other animals giving birth.
Evening: Return to your lodge or camp for dinner. If you are staying near Ndutu, you will have great access to the wildlife and can enjoy a relaxed evening after a thrilling day of safaris.

Day 03

Final Serengeti Game Drive and Return to Arusha

Morning: On your final morning, enjoy one last early morning game drive in the central Serengeti or near the Seronera region. Early mornings are a great time to spot predators such as lions and cheetahs, as they are often most active at dawn.
You may also want to focus on birdwatching if you enjoy photography and nature, as the Serengeti is rich in birdlife.
Late Morning: After your morning game drive, return to your lodge or camp for brunch. Pack up and check out of your accommodation.
Afternoon: Transfer to the Serengeti airstrip for your flight back to Arusha. Your flight will take approximately 1 hour. You will likely land in Arusha by mid-afternoon, giving you plenty of time to catch an evening flight or relax in the town.