5-Day Best Wildebeest Calving Safari (December–March)

The safari begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to the Ndutu region, situated at the border of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park. The journey itself is a game drive, passing through breathtaking landscapes. Upon arrival, you’ll head straight into the heart of Ndutu for your first game drive, exploring the iconic plains that serve as the epicenter of the wildebeest calving season. Here, the focus is on the vast, short-grass plains where millions of wildebeest and zebras gather.

This day is fully dedicated to a game drive in the Ndutu region. With wildebeest and zebra herds stretching across the plains, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to witness the calving season in all its intensity. Your guide will lead you through the area, highlighting the fascinating interactions between predators and prey. You may witness a lion on the hunt, a cheetah stalking a gazelle, or simply be amazed by thousands of newborn calves taking their first steps. Each moment offers a unique and unforgettable wildlife experience in the heart of this extraordinary region.

On your second full day in the Ndutu region, you’ll enjoy another day of immersive game viewing. Continue following the vast herds and observe the rhythms of life on the plains. Your guide’s expertise will take you to the best wildlife encounters, whether it’s a pride of lions resting on a kopje or a hyena clan on the move. The day ends with a memorable evening, witnessing he breathtaking spectacle of the Great Migration in all its glory.

Today, your adventure continues with a drive to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater. Upon reaching the crater rim, you’ll descend onto the magnificent crater floor for an extensive game drive. This extraordinary enclosed ecosystem is home to a dense concentration of wildlife, offering a rare chance to see the “Big Five” in a single location. After an unforgettable game drive, you’ll ascend the crater wall and make your way to Panorama Safari Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Often referred to as “Africa’s Garden of Eden,” the Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Its unique geography and permanent water sources support an incredible variety of wildlife, while the crater walls create a natural enclosure, making close-up wildlife encounters almost guaranteed.

On the final day, your adventure begins with a game drive in Tarangire National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. You’ll focus on encountering these majestic animals along with a variety of other wildlife, all drawn to the life-giving waters of the Tarangire River. Following your safari, enjoy a cultural experience with a visit to a local Maasai tribe, offering insight into their rich traditions. Afterward, you’ll begin the journey back to Arusha for your departure.