Ndutu, Calving Season
Six exhilarating days on the southern Serengeti short-grass plains, where 8,000 wildebeest calves are born every single day.
Based on 2 sharing private 4x4 expedition vehicle. Operates exclusively January through March.
Expedition Overview
Between late January and mid-March, two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles blanket the nutrient-rich volcanic soils of the southern plains. With thousands of calves born each morning, big predators—lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas—gather for intense drama.
Route Highlights
- Off-road driving permitted in Ndutu area for respectful, close-range photography
- Exceptional cheetah action: mothers teaching cubs to hunt in short grass
- Thousands of calves standing and running within twenty minutes of birth
- Small seasonal tented camp pitched right on the edge of Lake Ndutu
The Trail & Stop Sequence
Arusha Base
Arusha1 nightNdutu Wilderness Plains
Southern Serengeti4 nightsArusha Base
Ndutu Wilderness Plains
Day-by-Day Expedition Plan
Morning:Depart Arusha early, driving past the Rift Valley and through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Midday:Lunch on the crater rim road before dropping down the western slopes onto the open plains.
Evening:Arrive at Lake Ndutu as thousands of grazers fill your field of vision to the horizon.
Route Photography Gallery
Field perspectives from this specific itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical advice for this specific route.
Price Breakdown
What is Included
- ✓Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof and guide
- ✓All 5 nights in vetted wilderness camps and lodges
- ✓All Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti entry and off-road driving permits
- ✓All meals from lunch Day 1 to lunch Day 6
- ✓Filtered drinking water and field tea/coffee service in vehicle
- ✓AMREF Flying Doctors emergency medical evacuation cover
Not Included
- ✕International flights
- ✕Tanzania tourist visa
- ✕Gratuities for driver-guide and camp staff
- ✕Travel cancellation insurance