5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari
Experience one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife events on this 5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari, designed for travelers seeking to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration during the calving season. Each year between January and March, hundreds of thousands of wildebeest gather in the southern plains of Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to give birth to thousands of calves every day.
Tanzania
5 Days
Leisurely
Game Drive
2,300 m (7,546 ft)
Jun-Oct, Dec-March
Lodges/Camps
Included
Kilimanjaro Airport
Country
Tanzania
5 Days
Leisurely
Game Drive
2,300 m(7,546 ft)
Jun-Oct, Dec-March
Lodge/Camps
Included
Tour Highlights
- Witness the dramatic wildebeest calving season in the Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area)
- Excellent opportunities to see predator action including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas
- Game drives in the vast plains of the Serengeti during peak migration activity
- Explore the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, home to Africa’s Big Five
- Overnight stays in carefully selected mid-range lodges and tented camps
- Fully guided private safari with 4x4 vehicle and professional driver-guide
5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari Overview
Experience the magic of the Serengeti during its most dramatic season, the wildebeest calving period. This 5-day private safari takes you to the heart of the Southern Serengeti’s Ndutu region, where over 500,000 wildebeest give birth between January and March. This spectacle attracts predators in large numbers, offering thrilling wildlife encounters and unmatched photographic opportunities.
Your journey also includes a visit to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s best locations to spot the Big Five in a single day. With comfortable accommodation in mid-range lodges and tented camps, expert guides, and daily game drives, this safari is designed for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers eager to witness the circle of life unfold in the wild.
5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be welcomed by a representative from Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd and transferred to Planet Lodge or a similar accommodation in Arusha. (1-hour transfer to your lodge in Arusha), You will have a full briefing with your guide to ensure you’re fully prepared for the safari.
Planet Lodge Arusha
Note:
Your pre-safari briefing will be conducted at your hotel. If you arrive before 5:00 PM on the day prior to your safari, the briefing will take place that evening. If you arrive later, your guide will meet you for the briefing on the morning of your safari before departure. This ensures you’re fully prepared and have the opportunity to ask any last-minute questions
Please also note that hotel check-in is from midday (12:00 PM). If your flight arrives early in the morning, kindly let us know in advance. We can arrange a day-use room for you, or, if you prefer, we can organize some short activities to keep you engaged until your check-in time.
Day 2: Arusha to Ndutu Area (Southern Serengeti)
After breakfast, depart Arusha and drive towards the Ndutu region, located within the Southern Serengeti ecosystem. The journey takes around 6–7 hours (approx. 260 km), passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area with scenic views and wildlife sightings en route. You’ll stop for a packed lunch along the way and enjoy your first afternoon game drive in Ndutu, where the wildebeest migration and calving season unfold.
Ndutu Migration Camp
Day 3: Full Day Game Drive in Ndutu (Southern Serengeti)
Spend the day exploring the vast Ndutu plains on morning and afternoon game drives. This region is a prime location for witnessing thousands of wildebeest calving and predator activity, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. A picnic lunch will be served in the bush to allow maximum game viewing without returning to camp
Ndutu Migration Camp
Day 4: Second Full Day in Ndutu (Southern Serengeti)
Enjoy another day dedicated to wildlife exploration in the Ndutu area. Explore diverse terrains and witness dramatic wildlife interactions. Optional activities such as a sunrise balloon safari can be arranged upon request (at additional cost)
Ndutu Migration Camp
Day 5: Ndutu – Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha – Kilimanjaro Airport
After an early breakfast, drive to Ngorongoro Crater (approx. 90 km / 2 hours). Descend 600 meters into the crater for a game drive with a chance to spot the Big Five, including rhinos. Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the scenic picnic sites inside the crater. Afterward, drive back to Arusha (approx. 4.5 hours / 200 km) and transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight.
- Breakfast & Lunch included
Note:
This marks the final day of your unforgettable 5-day Migration Safari with Hike Kilimanjaro. After your game drive in Ngorongoro Crater, you will be transferred directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Due to the long driving distance, we highly recommend booking a night flight departing from 9:00 PM onward. Alternatively, you may choose to add an extra night in Arusha and depart the following day to allow for a more relaxed and comfortable end to your journey.
The best airport to fly into is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Located about 45 km from Moshi and 50 km from Arusha, it is the most convenient airport for climbers.
Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd can arrange airport transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport to your hotel and back. Please note that transfers are available at an additional cost—just let us know your flight details in advance, and we’ll handle the rest.
Alternative Airports
If you cannot find a flight directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport, you may also consider flying to:
- Nairobi International Airport (NBO) – Kenya
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
From these airports, you can connect to Kilimanjaro by either:
- A connecting flight to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
- A shuttle bus or private transfer to Moshi or Arusha, where your trek begins
For convenience, Nairobi is closer to Kilimanjaro than Dar es Salaam, and often offers more international flight options at competitive prices.
International Flights to Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO)
Several major airlines offer direct flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport:
| Airline | Route |
|---|---|
| KLM | Amsterdam → Kilimanjaro |
| Condor | Frankfurt → Kilimanjaro |
| Turkish Airlines | Istanbul → Kilimanjaro |
| Kenya Airways | Nairobi → Kilimanjaro |
| Precision Air | Nairobi → Kilimanjaro |
| Qatar Airways | Doha → Kilimanjaro |
| Ethiopian Airlines | Addis Ababa → Kilimanjaro |
| RwandAir | Kigali → Kilimanjaro |
If direct flights are not available from your location, you can also book flights via Dar es Salaam or Nairobi, then connect to Kilimanjaro.
Domestic Flights within Tanzania
For flights within Tanzania, the following airlines operate regular domestic services:
- Precision Air
- Air Tanzania
- Fly540
- Regional Air
- ZanAir
- Coastal Aviation
- Air Excel
Bus Transfers
We can also arrange shuttle bus services between Nairobi, Arusha, and Moshi. These are available daily for an additional fee.
Sample Shuttle Schedule (subject to change):
| Route | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| Nairobi → Arusha | 08:00 | 14:00 |
| Nairobi → Arusha | 14:00 | 18:30 |
| Nairobi → Moshi | 08:00 | 15:30 |
| Moshi → Nairobi | 06:00 | 14:00 |
| Arusha → Nairobi | 08:00 | 14:00 |
| Moshi → Nairobi | 10:30 | 18:30 |
| Arusha → Nairobi | 14:00 | 18:30 |
Private Transfers
For added comfort and flexibility, private transfers can also be arranged between:
- Nairobi ↔ Arusha / Moshi
- Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha / Moshi
- Mombasa ↔ Arusha / Moshi
Private transfers are available at an extra cost. Contact us for current rates and arrangements.
Price For 5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari
Number of Pax
Price Per Person
1
USD 4,199 pp
2
USD 2,100 pp
3 to 5
USD 1,753 pp
6 to 7
USD 1,596 pp
Inquire Now
Looking for personalized experience? We organize privately guided journey which is mainly designed to fit your taste and interest. Please fill out the form below to get started.
Price Includes
- Airport transfers (to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport)
- Two nights hotel accommodation in Arusha (one night before and one night after safari, with breakfast only included)
- Full-board accommodation throughout the safari
- Daily packed lunch and unlimited drinking water
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
- Guided walking safari in Arusha
- All park and conservation fees
- Maasai Boma cultural visit
- All airport transfers
Price Excludes
- Optional activities (e.g. Hot air balloon safari – $550 per person)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks at lodges and camps
- Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, phone calls, etc.)
- Tips and gratuities for the guide and lodge staff
- International and domestic flights
- Personal travel insurance
Packing List for 5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari
To ensure a safe and comfortable safari experience with Hike Kilimanjaro Ltd, we recommend bringing the following essential gear and equipment. Being well-prepared is the key to enjoying your adventure in Tanzania to the fullest.
Clothing Recommendations
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots, ideal for game walks and exploring campsites
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun protection and to guard against insects
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime (e.g., t-shirts, shorts, or dresses)
- A light jacket or sweater for chilly mornings and evenings
- Hat or cap for sun protection
Safari Gear Essentials
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing (1 provided in each safari vehicle; extras available on request)
- Insect repellent (preferably with DEET) to keep mosquitoes and bugs at bay
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards to capture every moment
- Flashlight or headlamp for use in camps and lodges after dark
- High-SPF sunscreen to protect against strong sun exposure
- Sunglasses with UV protection for eye comfort and safety
Other Travel Essentials
- Valid passport and visa (Visa can be obtained online prior to arrival)
- Essential medications and prescriptions for personal use
- Travel insurance documents for peace of mind
- Reusable water bottle (we'll provide one for you at the start of your safari)
- First aid kit with basic medical supplies (available in the safari vehicle)
- Light snacks for the journey (e.g., granola bars, nuts, dried fruit)
Miscellaneous Items
- First aid kit with basic medical supplies (available in the safari vehicle)
- Waterproof bag or cover to protect electronics from dust or rain
- Cash in small denominations for tips, souvenirs, and incidentals
- Swimsuit, as some lodges and camps offer swimming pools
Important Information – 5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari
Safari Start & End Point
This safari begins and ends in Arusha, the main gateway to Northern Tanzania safaris. Airport transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport are included as well.
Best Time to Visit
The Serengeti calving season usually takes place from January to March, when thousands of wildebeest calves are born daily in the southern plains of Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Safari Vehicle
All game drives are conducted in a private 4×4 Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, providing excellent wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation is available in luxury lodges, mid-range lodges, or tented camps, depending on your travel style and budget.
Professional Safari Guide
Your safari will be led by an experienced English-speaking professional guide with deep knowledge of wildlife behavior and migration patterns.
Meals During Safari
Full board meals are included during the safari, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with drinking water provided during game drives.
Wildlife Viewing
During the calving season you may see wildebeest migration herds, newborn calves, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and buffalo.
Customizable Safari
This itinerary can be customized to suit your travel dates, accommodation preferences, or private safari requests.
5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari Map
These full and frank reviews are from travelers who have traveled with Hike Kilimanjaro previously. The reviews and experiences shown here are from reputable travel websites like TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trust Pilot, etc.
Trip Photos
What makes this trip
different?
Hike Kilimanjaro
Company
- At Hike Kilimanjaro, we are committed to supporting the communities surrounding our trekking routes and wildlife safaris. We believe that tourism should be a force for good, and we actively give back to those who help make your adventure possible.
- A portion of our profits goes toward providing food, clothing, books, pens, and other essentials to orphaned children helping improve access to education and basic needs. By traveling with us, you directly contribute to creating a positive impact in local lives.
Sustainability and Responsible Tourism
- Of the few Travelife Certified companies in Tanzania, Hike Kilimanjaro is one. We respect the procedures for sustainable tourism. Our excursions are socially and environmentally conscious, leaving the lowest possible impact in the Tanzanians.
- 100% of Hike Kilimanjaro Company's staff members are natives of the regions where our trips are organized. It is one of our sustainable and responsible efforts to help local communities, support small businesses, and promote regional culture and way of life.
Related Information
What is the 5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari?
The 5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari is a private or small-group safari designed around the peak birthing season of the Great Wildebeest Migration. From January to March, the vast plains of southern Serengeti and the Ndutu area become the stage for the birth of over 500,000 wildebeest calves. This period offers unmatched opportunities to witness predator-prey interactions, with big cats like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas taking advantage of the vulnerable young. The safari also includes a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most biodiverse and scenic places in Africa.
When is the best time to book the 5 Day Serengeti Calving Season Safarir?
The calving season peaks between late January and early March, but accommodations in the Ndutu region fill up months in advance. To secure your preferred camps and ensure availability:
- Book at least 6 to 9 months in advance
- December, January, and February are high-demand months
- For February (peak calving), early booking is strongly recommended
This lead time is especially crucial for Ndutu tented camps, which offer limited but highly sought-after space close to the action.
Where should I stay during the calving season, and for how long?
The best place to stay is in or near the Ndutu area, located between southern Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This area lies within a migration corridor, and staying here allows you to be close to the wildebeest herds at all times.
For an ideal safari:
- Stay at least 2–3 nights in Ndutu to maximize chances of witnessing calving and predator scenes.
- Add 1 night near Ngorongoro Crater to enjoy the Big Five in a compact, lush setting.
- This 5-day itinerary offers the perfect balance between immersive wildlife viewing and logistical comfort.
Is it only the wildebeest calving season, or do other animals also give birth during this time?
While the wildebeest are the stars of the show, many other species also give birth during the green season:
- Zebras and Thomson’s gazelles often calve around the same time
- This abundance of young prey attracts large predator populations, making the region one of the best for observing hunting behavior
- You’ll also find elephants, giraffes, and hyenas with young during this period
The synchronized birthing across species enhances the ecological drama and provides a more diverse and dynamic wildlife experience.
Where else should I go during the calving season in Tanzania?
To enhance your trip beyond the Ndutu area and Ngorongoro Crater:
- Tarangire National Park is lush and scenic, with large elephant herds and less crowding
- Consider combining the calving safari with a Zanzibar beach extension for post-safari relaxation
We can easily customize your itinerary to include additional parks or cultural visits (e.g., Maasai Boma or Olduvai Gorge).
How far is it between parks on this safari itinerary?
Approximate travel distances and times:
- Arusha to Ndutu area: 280 km / 6 – 7 hours (with picnic lunch and game viewing en route)
- Ndutu to Ngorongoro Crater: 90 km / 2.5 – 3 hours
- Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha/Kilimanjaro Airport: 200 km / 5 – 6 hours (packed lunch included)
All drives are done in private 4×4 Land Cruisers with an expert guide, providing flexibility for photo stops and wildlife encounters.
Are meals and water included during the safari?
Yes. Your safari includes:
- Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Packed/picnic lunches on days with long drives or full-day game drives (Day 2, 3, 4, & 5)
- Unlimited bottled drinking water in the vehicle
Special dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice.
Is this safari good for photographers?
This is one of the most photography-friendly safaris in Africa:
- Wide open plains and soft light offer perfect composition
- Calving action and predator-prey interactions are intense and frequent
- Ideal conditions for filming wildlife behavior and dramatic moments
- Bring a telephoto lens, bean bags, and extra memory cards
Professional photographers and documentary teams often plan trips around this exact itinerary.
Is accommodation guaranteed at the listed lodges?
The lodges listed in your itinerary (e.g., Ndutu Migration Camp, crater-view lodges) are preferred properties, but:
- Due to high demand during calving season, we cannot guarantee availability until booking is confirmed.
- If a listed lodge is unavailable, we always offer comparable alternatives of equal standard, location, and quality to maintain your comfort and experience.
Are airport transfers and pre/post-safari hotels in Arusha included?
No, but they are available upon request at an extra cost. We recommend:
- Arriving in Arusha at least one day before your safari
- Booking night flights (9:00 PM or later) on your departure day
- Alternatively, you may add a final overnight stay in Arusha after the safari to avoid rushing
We’re happy to assist with tailor-made extensions and transfers based on your flight details.
Why Choose Hike Kilimanjaro for Your Tanzania Safari?
Because we deliver more than game drives, we create unforgettable journeys deep into the heart of Africa. With expert local guides, custom private 4×4 Land Cruisers, and handpicked lodges in the best locations, your safari is crafted for comfort, authenticity, and adventure. Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration river crossings, exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, or relaxing in a luxury tented camp under the stars, we make every moment seamless and extraordinary. When you travel with us, you’re not just a visitor, you’re part of something real, personal, and wild.
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