Tanzania · Safari

3-Day Southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari with Ndutu Calving

3 Days Round trip from Lake Ndutu Ngorongoro TZ Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the wide-open plains of the Southern Serengeti, spotting lions, cheetahs, and other predators
02 Experience Ndutu during the Great Migration calving season from December to March
03 Observe thousands of wildebeest and zebras alongside predators following the herds
04 Descend 600 meters into the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive among rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos
05 Stay in a camp in the heart of the wild and enjoy dinner under the stars

Embark on a 3-day Tanzanian safari through the Southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Explore the wide-open plains of the Southern Serengeti, where lions, cheetahs, and other predators roam, then spend a full day in Ndutu during the Great Migration calving season, witnessing thousands of wildebeest and zebras alongside the predators that follow them. Conclude your adventure with a half-day game drive in the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater, home to rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos.

Observe thousands of wildebeest and zebras, along with predators following the herds.

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 Not applicable

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Swahili

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arusha to the Southern Serengeti

Depart early from Arusha by scenic drive or optional bush flight to the Southern Serengeti.
Explore wide-open plains, ideal for spotting cheetahs, lions, and other predators.
Embark on a game drive through this remote and wildlife-rich area, especially vibrant during the migration season.
Arrive at your camp located in the heart of the wild.
Enjoy dinner under the stars and an overnight stay.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Southern Serengeti Camp / Similar

Day 02

Full-Day Ndutu Calving Season Safari

Have an early breakfast before departing to the Ndutu area, a key location during the Great Migration calving season (December-March).
Spend the day on game drives across the open plains and around seasonal lakes.
Observe thousands of wildebeest and zebras, along with predators following the herds.
Witness thrilling scenes of survival, new life, and extraordinary wildlife density.
Return to camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Southern Serengeti Camp / Similar

Day 03

Ngorongoro Crater and Return to Arusha or JRO

Depart early for Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Descend 600 meters into the crater for a half-day game drive among high concentrations of wildlife, including rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos.
Enjoy a scenic lunch inside the crater or at nearby viewpoints.
Begin the drive back to Arusha or transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for departure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Where this trip takes you

Southern Serengeti plains, Ndutu calving grounds, Ngorongoro Crater

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Lake Ndutu Ngorongoro TZ 4 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park fees (for non-residents)
Activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
All accommodations mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrades)
Roundtrip airport transfers
A professional driver/guide
All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
All taxes/VAT

What's Not Included

International flights (from/to the client's home country)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips (tipping guideline: US$ 10.00 per person per day for the guide and crew)
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, and other personal expenses)
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees

What to bring

Light, breathable clothes for daytime (neutral colors like khaki, beige, and olive)
Warm layers for early morning and evening game drives (it can get chilly)
A good hat or cap and sunglasses for sun protection
Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent (preferably with DEET)
Refillable water bottle
Personal toiletries and medications
Binoculars (for wildlife viewing)
Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
Small backpack or daypack for game drives
Passport (with required visa if applicable)
Travel insurance documents
Cash (USD) for tips, souvenirs, and personal expenses
Power bank for charging devices
Guidebook or wildlife checklist

Know before you go

December to March is the calving season in Ndutu - expect to see thousands of wildebeest and plenty of predator action.
June to October is the dry season - great for clear game viewing in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Days are usually warm, but mornings and evenings can be chilly - pack layers.
Short rains (November-December) and long rains (March-May) can affect road conditions.
A yellow fever certificate may be required if traveling from certain countries.
Malaria precautions are recommended - consult your doctor for advice.
Always follow your guide's instructions during game drives and walks.
Your passport must be valid for at least six months.
Check visa requirements for your nationality.
Travel insurance covering medical emergencies is strongly recommended.
Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Do not feed animals or step out of the vehicle unless advised by your guide.
Respect local cultures and traditions, especially during village visits.