Tanzania · Safari

7-Day Tanzania Calving Season Safari through Serengeti and Ngorongoro

7 Days Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Discover Tarangire National Park's iconic baobabs and some of Africa's largest elephant herds
02 Witness the Great Migration calving season in Ndutu from December to March
03 Explore the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's greatest natural wonders and home to the Big Five
04 Look for Lake Manyara's rare tree-climbing lions among forests, wetlands, and soda lake scenery
05 Enjoy immersive game drives across the Serengeti's vast plains, swamps, lakes, and savannahs

Embark on a 7-day safari adventure through Tanzania's iconic landscapes and wildlife wonders, from Arusha to Tarangire, the Serengeti, Ndutu, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara. Discover Tarangire's ancient baobabs and elephant herds, explore the legendary plains of the Serengeti, and witness the Great Migration during the calving season in Ndutu. Continue with remarkable wildlife encounters in the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara, including the chance to see the Big Five and Lake Manyara's famous tree-climbing lions. This journey combines breathtaking scenery, expert-guided game drives, and memorable stays in comfortable accommodations.

From December to March, the short-grass plains of Ndutu come alive with thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles during the calving season.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park

Languages English, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and Relaxation in Arusha

Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our friendly Wild Safaris representative and transferred to your accommodation in Arusha. Sit back and relax as you take in the scenic views on your way to the hotel.
Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the lively city of Arusha, a vibrant hub filled with colorful markets, local art galleries, and breathtaking views of Mount Meru.
Your stay at the elegant Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa promises pure relaxation.
Nestled within expansive, lush gardens, this tranquil retreat offers a perfect blend of comfort and charm.
Unwind by the pool, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere as you prepare for the thrilling safari adventure that awaits you.

Day 02

Tarangire's Baobabs and Elephant Herds

Begin your day with an early morning departure from Arusha, embarking on a scenic 2 to 3-hour drive to the breathtaking Tarangire National Park.
As you enter the park, be captivated by its iconic landscapes dotted with ancient baobab trees and home to some of Africa's largest elephant herds.
Enjoy a thrilling game drive through the park's diverse terrain, where you'll have the chance to spot majestic lions, elusive leopards, graceful giraffes, roaming zebras, and a variety of antelope species.
Pause midday for a delightful picnic lunch at a designated spot, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
After lunch, continue exploring the park's hidden gems, capturing unforgettable moments of Tarangire's rich wildlife and stunning scenery.
As the sun begins to set, conclude your adventure and head to the charming Farm of Dreams Lodge in the lush Karatu District.
Here, unwind in comfort and indulge in the lodge's inviting amenities, warm hospitality, and serene atmosphere, perfect for recharging before your next safari experience.

Day 03

Journey to the Central Serengeti

After a hearty breakfast, begin your journey through the lush highlands, where the Iraqw people cultivate vibrant fields of wheat, coffee, and corn.
As you ascend, marvel at the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with breathtaking views of the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's greatest natural wonders.
Continuing your adventure, you'll enter the legendary Serengeti National Park, a land where endless horizons meet extraordinary wildlife.
Pause for a scenic picnic lunch, surrounded by the Serengeti's diverse landscapes - grassy plains, swamps, shimmering lakes, golden savannahs, and rugged mountains.
Spend the afternoon on an immersive game drive, where nature comes alive. Witness the grandeur of vast wildebeest herds, the elegance of gazelles, the power of lions, and the stealth of elusive leopards roaming freely in their natural habitat.
As the sun sets over the Serengeti, retreat to the luxurious Signature Serengeti Luxury Tented Safari Camp.
Nestled deep in the untamed wilderness, this exclusive camp offers the perfect blend of comfort and adventure.
Savor a delicious dinner, unwind under a starlit sky, and relax in the tranquil embrace of the African wild for a truly unforgettable overnight stay.

Day 04

Ndutu and the Calving Season Spectacle

After a fulfilling breakfast, we embark on an unforgettable journey to the captivating Ndutu region, a hidden gem nestled within the expansive Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This pristine landscape forms a vital part of the southern Serengeti ecosystem, renowned for its raw beauty and diverse wildlife.
As we traverse the scenic route, be mesmerized by sweeping views of the Rift Valley Lakes, with Lake Ndutu glistening like a jewel amidst the plains.
This seasonal lake serves as a vital water source, attracting an extraordinary concentration of wildlife.
Watch as herds of elephants gracefully wander the landscape, giraffes stretch toward the treetops, and over 400 bird species add vibrant color and melody to the air.
Upon arrival, enjoy a delightful lunch at the lodge, savoring local flavors while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
In the afternoon, brace yourself for one of nature's greatest spectacles - the Great Wildebeest Migration.
From December to March, the short-grass plains of Ndutu come alive with thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles during the calving season. This dramatic event attracts predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, offering a front-row seat to the raw drama of the wild.
As the golden sun dips below the horizon, we retreat to our enchanting accommodation, where the warmth of African hospitality awaits.
Relish a delicious dinner under a canopy of stars, with the distant sounds of the wilderness serenading the night. Reflect on the day's remarkable encounters and prepare for more extraordinary moments ahead.
This day in Ndutu promises an intimate connection with nature - an awe-inspiring experience that will leave an everlasting imprint on your heart and soul.

Day 05

Full-Day Game Drive in Ndutu

On Day Five, prepare for an unforgettable adventure as we embark on a full-day game drive through the captivating Ndutu region.
This extraordinary landscape, where the Southern Serengeti meets the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offers a stunning mix of swamps, woodlands, shimmering soda lakes, and vast short-grass plains teeming with life.
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Great Migration, where massive herds of wildebeest and zebras move gracefully across the plains. Witness one of nature's most remarkable events - the birth of vulnerable wildebeest calves.
This powerful moment of life attracts skilled predators such as cheetahs, lions, hyenas, and leopards, creating a dynamic balance between survival and the circle of life.
Marvel at the resilience of these newborn calves as they take their first steps and quickly learn to navigate the wild alongside their herds.
As the sun begins to set, casting golden hues across the savannah, we conclude the day under the enchanting African sky, reflecting on the awe-inspiring moments and raw beauty we've witnessed. This is Ndutu - a place where the rhythm of life and survival leaves a lasting impression on your soul.
After a thrilling day in the wild, we return to your comfortable accommodation to unwind.
Enjoy a delicious dinner, relax, and drift into a peaceful sleep, surrounded by the distant sounds of the African wilderness.

Day 06

Ngorongoro Crater Wildlife Experience

After a delicious breakfast, we begin our journey from Ndutu to the legendary Ngorongoro Crater, a truly awe-inspiring destination.
As we drive through scenic landscapes, we are treated to magnificent views of rolling hills and vast plains before reaching the crater rim, where we're greeted by sweeping panoramic vistas.
The moment you set eyes on the Ngorongoro Crater, you'll feel as though you've stepped into a lost world.
Hidden within the steep volcanic walls of the crater lies a pristine wilderness - a diverse landscape of savannahs, acacia woodlands, and glimmering lakes and swamps.
This natural wonder was formed millions of years ago when a colossal volcano exploded and collapsed in on itself, creating a unique geological marvel.
Today, the crater remains one of the most fertile and biodiverse areas on the planet.
The crater's flat, expansive floors provide an excellent opportunity to spot the endangered black rhino, which roams the open grasslands.
In addition to the rhinos, the Big Five - lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros - can all be found within this remarkable ecosystem. The crater offers one of the best chances to witness these majestic animals in a single day.
We pause for a relaxing picnic lunch amidst the beauty of the crater, giving us time to absorb the surroundings and reflect on the incredible wildlife we've seen so far.
With memories of this unforgettable experience etched in our minds, we begin our ascent, bidding farewell to this ancient landscape.
Our day concludes as we head to our cozy accommodation, where a warm and welcoming atmosphere awaits.
Enjoy a delightful dinner while reflecting on the day's remarkable moments, surrounded by the beauty and serenity of Tanzania's most extraordinary natural wonders.

Day 07

Lake Manyara Safari and Return to Arusha

Set off on a captivating journey to Lake Manyara National Park, one of Tanzania's hidden gems, renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions, a rare phenomenon that adds an unforgettable touch to your safari experience.
As you explore the park on a full-day game drive, you'll be immersed in its stunning landscapes, from lush forests and vibrant wetlands to the expansive savannahs. Every turn offers a new marvel, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.
While traversing this diverse ecosystem, you'll discover hidden treasures such as the underground water forest, a mesmerizing feature where water flows beneath the surface, sustaining a variety of plant and animal life.
This hidden gem showcases the intricate balance of nature and provides an opportunity to witness how the landscape adapts to the underground water system.
At the heart of the park, the soda lake attracts thousands of pink flamingos, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle as the birds gather in their hundreds, adding a splash of color to the lake's shimmering waters.
The sight of these graceful creatures, set against the backdrop of the striking landscape, is a photographer's dream and a tranquil experience to cherish.
Throughout the day, keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife that calls the park home - elephants, giraffes, baboons, and a variety of antelope species roam freely across the terrain, while birdwatchers will delight in the abundant species found in this area.
As the sun begins to set, you'll reflect on the remarkable wildlife encounters, the breathtaking landscapes, and the unforgettable moments captured throughout your day in the park.
After a fulfilling day of exploration, you'll be transferred back to Arusha, filled with the beauty and tranquility of Lake Manyara in your heart.
From there, you will be transferred to the airport, carrying with you the cherished memories and incredible experiences of your adventure - moments that will stay with you long after your journey has ended.

Where this trip takes you

Tarangire National Park baobabs, Serengeti National Park plains, Ndutu calving season, Ngorongoro Crater rim

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kilimanjaro Airport Rd 7 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park fees (for non-residents)
All activities (unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
All taxes/VAT
Round-trip airport transfer
Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Bush breakfast
Sun downer
Drinking water (on all days)

What's Not Included

International flights (from/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government-imposed increases of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)

What to bring

For a safari tour like this one, it's important to pack efficiently while ensuring you have everything needed for comfort and safety. Here's a list of essentials to bring:

Clothing:

Lightweight, breathable clothes for daytime (neutral colors like khaki, beige, and green are ideal to blend with the environment).
Long-sleeve shirts and long pants to protect against the sun and insects.
A hat or cap to shield your face from the sun.
A light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings.
Comfortable walking shoes for short walks or treks.
Flip-flops or sandals for relaxation at the lodge.
A swimsuit if your lodge has a pool or for any water-based activities.

Accessories:

Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun.
Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Camera with extra batteries and memory cards for capturing photos.
A power bank to charge electronics on the go.
A small backpack for day trips and game drives.
A flashlight or headlamp for nighttime activities.

Toiletries & Health:

Sunscreen with high SPF to protect from the harsh sun.
Insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
Personal hygiene items like soap, toothpaste, and toiletries.
Medications and any prescriptions you may need, including a basic first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers).
Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for convenience.

Documents & Essentials:

Passport and copies of important documents (visa, insurance).
Travel insurance details and emergency contact information.
Credit cards or cash in Tanzanian Shillings (Tanzanian parks usually charge park fees in local currency).
A hat and gloves if traveling during cooler months.

Other Items:

A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Light snacks for the game drive.
A journal or notebook if you like to jot down your safari experience.
Plastic bags to keep dirty clothes separated from clean ones.

Be sure to check the weather forecast and adapt your packing accordingly! Enjoy your adventure in Tanzania, and don't forget to pack your sense of wonder!

Know before you go

Once a booking has been confirmed, clients will receive a detailed invoice outlining all the necessary information related to their reservation. Along with the invoice, a service provider-client contract agreement will also be provided for signing. This contract outlines the terms and conditions of the services provided, ensuring mutual understanding between both parties. To secure the booking, a deposit of 50% of the total itinerary cost is required. Clients also have the option to pay the full amount upfront if they prefer to settle the entire balance in advance. The remaining balance, which amounts to 50% of the total cost, must be paid upon arrival, before the commencement of the tour. This payment ensures that the tour can begin without any delays or complications. We kindly request that clients settle the remaining balance in full prior to the start of the tour to ensure a smooth and seamless experience.

The calving season in Ndutu typically occurs once a year, from December to March. This period is crucial for the region's wildlife, especially for wildebeest and zebras, as it marks the arrival of thousands of newborns. It is a time of renewal and survival, with many young animals taking their first steps on the savanna, while predators are also drawn to the abundance of vulnerable calves. For travelers, visiting during this season offers a front-row seat to one of nature's most captivating events - a rare and awe-inspiring spectacle that combines the beauty of new life with the raw drama of the wild. The calving season not only provides unparalleled wildlife viewing but also offers photographers and nature enthusiasts a chance to capture extraordinary moments in the natural world. Enjoy guided game drives, comfortable accommodations, and delicious meals, all designed to make this extraordinary adventure unforgettable. Capture the magic of one of nature's greatest moments and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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