15 Day Tanzania Calving Season Safari + Zanzibar Relaxation
Overview
Discover the best of Tanzania on this fantastic 15 Days Tanzania Calving Season Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday, a well-designed journey combining fantastic wildlife, stunning scenery, authentic cultural encounters and the tropical paradise of Zanzibar. This itinerary is ideal for honeymooners, families, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, taking you through Tanzania’s most iconic destinations during the incredible Great Migration Calving Season, before finishing with four relaxing nights on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar.
Your adventure starts in Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania and the gateway to the world-famous Northern Safari Circuit. From here you will head to the magnificent Tarangire National Park, famous for its huge elephant populations, giant baobab trees and beautiful landscapes. Over two unforgettable days in the park you’ll explore a variety of habitats that support an incredible variety of wildlife including lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, warthogs and more than 550 recorded bird species. The Tarangire River is the lifeline of the park, drawing wildlife in all year round and offering excellent game viewing.
You leave Tarangire and continue your adventure into the wildlife rich plains of Ndutu, in the southern Serengeti ecosystem. Between December and March, Ndutu transforms into one of the most exciting safari locations in Africa, as it plays host to the world-renowned Great Migration Calving Season. In this wonderful natural event, over half a million wildebeest calves are born in just weeks and the vast grass plains become one of the biggest wildlife nurseries on earth.
The abundance of newborn calves attracts a large concentration of predators, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas and jackals, creating thrilling wildlife encounters and exceptional photographic opportunities. Every game drive through Ndutu has something special to offer, from the playful wildebeest calves taking their first steps, to dramatic predator-prey encounters that show the remarkable cycle of life in the African wilderness. With open plains, scattered acacia trees and golden light Ndutu is one of the best places in Tanzania for wildlife photography.
You continue your safari into the legendary Central Serengeti, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife areas. The Central Serengeti is famous for its endless plains, rocky kopjes and game-rich Seronera Valley. Game viewing is superb here all year round. While you are here you will be looking for the famous Big Five watching lions resting under acacia trees, shy leopards hiding in riverine forests, cheetahs scanning the plains and large elephant herds moving gracefully across the landscape. With its wealth of wildlife and stunning scenery, the Serengeti ensures that no game drive is ever short of memorable moments.
The adventure then continues to the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the great natural wonders of Africa. The crater, which was formed by the collapse of a huge volcanic mountain millions of years ago, now has one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the continent. You will descend about 600 metres to the crater floor where you will have an incredible game drive in search of the endangered black rhino, elephants, lions, buffaloes, hippos, hyenas and numerous bird species that thrive in this unique ecosystem.
Wildlife aside, this itinerary offers an authentic cultural experience with a visit to Lake Eyasi, home to the intriguing Hadzabe Tribe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer societies in Africa. Here you’ll find out about their ancient way of life, survival skills and ancient customs that have survived largely unchanged for thousands of years. You will also get to meet the neighbouring Datoga Tribe known for their traditional blacksmithing, livestock keeping and vibrant cultural heritage. These authentic cultural experiences provide greater insight into the diverse people and cultures of Tanzania.
Having experienced the incredible wilderness of Tanzania you will return to Arusha and catch a morning flight to the exotic island of Zanzibar. Zanzibar, with its sparkling turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, is the perfect place to relax and unwind after your exciting safari. Experience four days of unforgettable powder white sandy beaches, deluxe beachfront accommodation and the islands warm tropical climate.
Whether you want to relax by the sea or explore the island, Zanzibar has something for every traveller. Optional activities include snorkelling amongst colourful reefs of coral, scuba diving, kayaking, traditional dhow sunset cruises, deep-sea fishing and the famous Safari Blue excursion. History buffs can wander the narrow streets of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town, visit fragrant spice plantations or meet the giant Aldabra tortoises on Prison Island.
You will be travelling in a professionally equipped 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser Safari Vehicle with a pop-up roof, comfortable seating and large viewing windows, accompanied by an experienced English speaking Driver-Guide who is passionate about sharing Tanzania’s incredible wildlife and natural beauty throughout your journey. Carefully selected lodges, luxury tented camps and beachfront resorts guarantee comfort, outstanding hospitality and unforgettable memories from arrival to departure.
This 15 Days Tanzania Calving Season Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday is the perfect combination of thrilling wildlife adventures, authentic cultural experiences and tropical island relaxation in one amazing journey. This itinerary provides the ultimate Tanzanian holiday and memories to last a lifetime from seeing thousands of newborn wildebeest during the Great Migration Calving Season, exploring the endless plains of the Serengeti, descending into the Ngorongoro Crater and relaxing on the world famous beaches of Zanzibar.
Safari Itinerary
Welcome to Tanzania, where you are in for unforgettable wildlife adventures and breathtaking landscapes. Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), your professional Tanzaniatrail Driver-Guide will warmly welcome you, assist you with your luggage and then transfer you to your carefully selected hotel in Arusha. Enjoy your first views of northern Tanzania on the drive and get a brief introduction to your exciting safari ahead. Relax at the hotel, recover from your international journey or enjoy the tranquil surroundings, depending on your arrival time. Your guide will give a full safari briefing in the evening, covering your itinerary, wildlife destinations and the Zanzibar extension before dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Meals: Not Included
Comfort Accommodation: Forest Hill Hotel
Premium Accommodation: Ngaresero Lodge
After an early breakfast we leave Arusha for the spectacular Tarangire National Park, one of Tanzania’s most rewarding wildlife destinations. Located in the heart of the country, it is famous for its giant Baobab trees and impressive elephant herds. Game viewing is excellent all year round. Upon entering the park, begin your exciting game drive while searching for elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeests, impalas and many other wildlife species. The Tarangire River draws animals from across the ecosystem, making it a great photo opportunity. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch in the midst of nature and then continue your afternoon game drive through the beautiful landscapes of the park. Later, transfer to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and overnight at leisure.
Today you'll enjoy a full day exploring the magnificent Tarangire National Park, giving you ample time to discover its diverse habitats and abundant wildlife. Early morning and afternoon game drives provide excellent opportunities to observe predators during their most active hours, while large elephant herds roam beneath the ancient baobab trees. Keep your camera ready for lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, ostriches and numerous antelope species. Bird enthusiasts will also appreciate the park's impressive variety of over 550 recorded bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic location before continuing your wildlife adventure. As the African sun begins to set, return to your accommodation for dinner and another peaceful evening in the wilderness.
After breakfast, leave Tarangire and drive towards the famous Ndutu area, in the southern Serengeti ecosystem, famous for the spectacular Great Migration Calving Season. The drive is scenic passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to arrive on the endless short-grass plains of Ndutu. Upon arrival, start your first exciting game drive in search of huge herds of wildebeests, zebras and gazelles that gather here during the calving season. Lions, cheetahs, hyenas and leopards are predators that often follow the migration, giving some of the best wildlife viewing anywhere. Arrive at your camp in time for dinner and spend your first night to the sounds of the African wilderness.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Ndutu
Premium Accommodation: In The Wind
Spend the entire day exploring the incredible Ndutu region, one of Africa's finest wildlife destinations during the Great Migration Calving Season. Between December and March, thousands of wildebeest calves are born daily on the open plains, attracting huge numbers of predators, and creating one of nature’s most spectacular wildlife spectacles. Throughout the day, your experienced Driver-Guide will be on the lookout for lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas and jackals, following the movements of the migration herds. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, amidst breathtaking scenery before your afternoon game drive. At Ndutu, every moment is an opportunity for incredible wildlife encounters, outstanding photography and unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s most remarkable natural spectacle.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: African Safari Ndutu
Premium Accommodation: In The Wind
Rise early for another exciting morning game drive in the magnificent Ndutu area, where the Great Migration Calving Season is still delivering incredible wildlife sightings. Look for lions coming back from their night hunts, playful wildebeest calves, grazing zebras and cheetahs scanning the grasslands for prey as the sun rises over the endless plains. Enjoy your last game drive in Ndutu before heading to the legendary Central Serengeti National Park. The drive itself is a rewarding safari, with plenty of chances to see wildlife along the way. Upon arrival at the famous Seronera area enjoy an afternoon game drive and check in to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
Today, we're going to explore the amazing wildlife of Central Serengeti, one of the most renowned safari destinations in Africa. Thanks to its permanent water sources and abundance of wildlife, the Seronera Valley is one of the best places to see predators all year round. On your game drives, keep an eye open for lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos and many species of antelope that roam the endless plains. Your experienced Driver-Guide will be on the lookout for wildlife movements and provide interesting facts on animal behaviour and the Serengeti ecosystem. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild, followed by an afternoon safari. Return to your lodge after another unforgettable day in Tanzania’s most famous national park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
After breakfast, leave the Serengeti and continue to the spectacular Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater for an incredible wildlife experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is among the most densely populated areas of wildlife in Africa – including the endangered black rhinoceros, lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, hyenas, wildebeests and countless bird species. Enjoy an exciting game drive across the crater floor and admire its magnificent scenery and diverse habitats. After a picnic lunch near the hippo pool, ascend the crater walls and continue to the charming town of Karatu. Surrounded by coffee farms and rolling green hills, Karatu provides the perfect place to relax after another incredible safari day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
After breakfast drive to Lake Eyasi for a real cultural experience with the interesting Hadzabe and Datoga communities. Learn about the Hadzabe’s traditional hunter-gatherer way of life, survival skills and ancient customs that have remained unchanged for thousands of years. You will also visit the neighbouring Datoga Tribe, famous for their traditional blacksmithing skills and livestock culture. See local craftsmen make tools and jewellery using time-honoured techniques, while gaining valuable insight into the rich cultural heritage of Tanzania. After this memorable cultural experience, you will have lunch and then return to Arusha via the beautiful landscapes of Northern Tanzania. Arrive in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay in comfort.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: Serenity Camps and Lodges
Premium Accommodation: Serengeti Luxury Retreat
After breakfast, transfer to Arusha Airport for your scheduled domestic flight to the beautiful island of Zanzibar. On the flight enjoy spectacular aerial views of the mountains, savannahs and coastlines of Tanzania before arriving on the tropical island surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. On arrival you will be met by our representative in Zanzibar and transferred to your chosen beachside resort. The rest of the day is free to relax on the beach, swim in the warm Indian Ocean or just enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of your resort. This is the start of a well-deserved tropical escape after your unforgettable wildlife adventure across northern Tanzania.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
Spend the next four unforgettable days relaxing on the tropical island of Zanzibar, renowned for its powder-white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and rich Swahili culture. Stay at your beachfront resort while enjoying the warm Indian Ocean, swimming, sunbathing or simply unwinding in paradise. For those seeking adventure, optional activities include snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, deep-sea fishing, traditional dhow sunset cruises and the famous Safari Blue excursion. You may also explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Stone Town, visit a traditional spice farm, discover the giant Aldabra tortoises on Prison Island or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment. Whether you choose adventure or complete relaxation, Zanzibar offers the perfect ending to your unforgettable Tanzania Calving Season Safari.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Comfort Accommodation: The Z Hotel Zanzibar
Premium Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the final views of Zanzibar's breathtaking coastline. Depending on your international flight schedule, you may have time to relax by the beach, enjoy the resort's facilities or purchase a few last-minute souvenirs before your transfer. When the time comes your driver will transfer you to the Abeid Amani Karume International Airport for your onwards flight home. Your 15 Days Tanzania Calving Season Safari & Zanzibar Beach Holiday comes to an end with unforgettable memories of the Great Migration Calving Season, incredible wildlife encounters, authentic cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes and the tropical paradise of Zanzibar. Tanzaniatrail thanks you for choosing us and we look forward to welcoming you back for another incredible African adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
MID-RANGE INCLUDES
- All Meals as per Itinerary
- Airport Transfers
- National Park Fees
- Private 4x4 safari Jeep with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Government taxes and levies
- Soft Drinks & Wines/Beers
- Domestic Flight
MID-RANGE EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
LUXURY INCLUDES
- All Meals as per Itinerary
- VIP airport pick-up and drop-off
- All national park and conservation area fees
- Private 4x4 safari Jeep with pop-up roof
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Government taxes and levies
- Soft Drinks & Wines/Beers
- Premium accommodation in high-end lodges or luxury tented camps
- Domestic Flight
LUXURY EXCLUDES
- Travel Insurance
- International Flights
- Tipping
- Personal Equipments
- Visa fees
- Premium wines and spirits (unless specified)
FAQs
The Tanzania Calving Season Safari is a unique wildlife experience that occurs every year from late January to March when over 500,000 wildebeest calves are born in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu Plains. It is one of the most spectacular phases of the Great Wildebeest Migration and provides for some exceptional wildlife viewing and predator action.
Tanzania Calving Season Safari Best Time: Late January to early March. February is normally the peak of calving season when thousands of wildebeest are born every day, creating incredible wildlife activity on the plains.
The calving season is mainly in the Ndutu area, Southern Serengeti National Park and sections of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. These short-grass plains are full of nutrients -- the perfect place for wildebeest to give birth to their babies.
The volcanic grasslands of the southern Serengeti are full of minerals and nutrients and there is plenty of food for nursing mothers. The open plains also enable wildebeest to spot predators from afar, which improves the survival chances for newborn calves.
Yes. Migration is concentrated in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu area during the calving season. There are no dramatic river crossings, but you will see vast herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle with thousands of newborn calves taking their first steps.
Besides the wildebeest and their young calves, you will most probably see lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, jackals, hippos, gazelles, warthogs, ostriches and more than 500 species of birds. It is particularly a great time for predator sightings.
Yes, sure. Tanzania Calving Season Safaris offer some of the best wildlife photography experiences in the world. The combination of baby animals, thrilling predator interactions, lush green scenery, beautiful skies and active wildlife offers great photographic opportunities for the professional or beginner photographer.
Yes. Tanzania Calving Season Safaris are a great choice for families. In a safe, educational environment with experienced professional safari guides, children can experience one of nature’s great events, learn about conservation and witness incredible wildlife behaviour.
Tanzania’s green season is also the calving season when the days are warm (between 24°C to 30°C (75°F–86°F). Rain showers tend to be short, usually only lasting a short while, and the landscape is lush, green and great for wildlife viewing and photography.
Bring along light-coloured, lightweight clothing, a warm fleece or jacket for early morning game drives, a waterproof rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, binoculars, a camera and extra batteries and any personal medications. A small daypack is also handy for day trips.
7 to 10 days is the ideal duration for a safari to experience the calving season in all its glory, as well as other famous destinations such as Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park. Longer itineraries can additionally include a beach holiday in Zanzibar or Lake Manyara and Lake Natron.
Tanzaniatrail we specialise in tailor made private safaris to suit your interests and travel style. Our experienced professional guides have an in-depth knowledge of the Serengeti ecosystem and closely monitor migration movements to maximise your wildlife viewing opportunities. We offer comfortable 4x4 safari vehicles, hand-picked lodges, personalised service, flexible itineraries and a commitment to memorable safari experiences whilst supporting responsible tourism and wildlife conservation.
Giving Back Through Every Journey
At Tanzaniatrail, we believe that travel should create lasting memories and make a positive difference. That’s why 1% of every safari package you book goes directly back to local communities in Tanzania. We regularly visit and support orphanages and community centers, and our dream is to establish a dedicated children’s home under Tanzaniatrail’s care. When you travel with us, you’re not only exploring Tanzania’s beauty — you’re also helping provide education, food, and brighter futures for vulnerable children. Your adventure changes lives. Travel with purpose.