This unique 9 Day Tanzania Calving Season Safari brings you the best of Northern Tanzania. The trip is built around the incredible Great Wildebeest Migration during its most intriguing phase. From Ndutu’s wildlife rich plains, to the iconic landscapes of Central Serengeti and breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, to the elephant paradise of Tarangire National Park, this safari is an extraordinary combination of unforgettable wildlife experiences, breathtaking scenery and authentic African adventure. Whether you’re on your first safari experience, a professional wildlife photographer, honeymooners, or a family seeking the ultimate safari holiday, this itinerary will make memories that last a lifetime.

The highlight of this safari is certainly the Great Migration Calving Season, which takes place annually between January and March across the fertile short-grass plains of Southern Serengeti and the Ndutu region. More than 2 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras and Thomson’s gazelles gather for the wildebeest’s remarkable natural event, giving birth. This is one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world – thousands of wildebeest calves are born every day. Within minutes of birth the calves are standing and following their mothers across the plains – one of nature’s most remarkable survival instincts.

The sheer numbers of newborn animals draws an incredible concentration of predators making Ndutu one of the best places in Africa to witness dramatic wildlife interactions. Lions, cheetahs, leopards, spotted hyenas, servals and jackals stalk the open grasslands offering unforgettable opportunities to witness predator-prey behaviour in the wild. Each game drive may offer a different sight, be it a pride of lions with frolicking cubs, cheetahs racing across the plains, or hyenas battling over a new kill. The open landscapes of Ndutu also offer great opportunities for wildlife photography.

You start your safari in Arusha and continue directly to the famous area of Ndutu, where you will spend a few days exploring the amazing ecosystem. In certain parts of Ndutu, off-road driving is permitted, unlike in most of Tanzania’s national parks. Expert safari guides can take vehicles to prime spots for wildlife viewing and photography while still respecting conservation guidelines. The area is home to resident populations of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, bat-eared foxes, servals, jackals and over 400 bird species, ensuring excellent wildlife viewing beyond the migration itself.

The adventure continues to the legendary Central Serengeti, one of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations. Endless golden plains, rocky granite kopjes and permanent rivers are the hallmarks of Central Serengeti, providing outstanding game viewing all year round. The famous Seronera Valley has one of the highest concentrations of predators in Africa and is therefore a great place to look for lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles and a multitude of antelope species. Central Serengeti offers two days to explore different habitats and enjoy spectacular sunrise and sunset game drives.

Then to the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most famous natural wonders. The crater, more than two million years old, contains the largest intact volcanic caldera on Earth and an amazing concentration of wildlife on its green floor. The crater is some 600 metres deep and here you can see an amazing ecosystem and have the chance to see the endangered black rhinoceros, elephants, lions, buffaloes, hippos, zebras, wildebeest, flamingos and many other interesting species. The crater is one of the best places in Tanzania to see the famous Big Five in one day, all with a backdrop of spectacular scenery.

The safari concludes in Tarangire National Park, known for its massive baobab trees, ancient landscapes and one of the biggest elephant populations in East Africa. The life-giving Tarangire River attracts remarkable concentrations of wildlife including elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes, lions, leopards and more than 550 bird species. The spectacular scenery and amazing wildlife combine to create the perfect conclusion to your Tanzanian safari adventure.

You will be travelling in a purpose built 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with a pop up roof and a professional English speaking safari guide who will provide fascinating insights into wildlife behaviour, ecosystems, conservation and Tanzania’s rich natural heritage on your trip. Carefully selected safari lodges and tented camps where comfort is assured are where the sights and sounds of the African wilderness are enjoyed.

Experience the calving season with thousands of newborn wildebeest, discover the endless plains of Serengeti, venture down into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater and meet giant elephant herds in Tarangire The 9 Day Tanzania Calving Season Safari offers an unforgettable African adventure packed with extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking landscapes and lifelong memories.