Wildebeest Migration Calving Safari (December/March)
Short Overview
Experience the initial stages of one of nature’s most challenging and captivating journeys during the calving season. This season marks the commencement of a massive migration, where millions of animals embark on a demanding expedition from the Serengeti to Masai Mara. On your 4-day calving season safari, you’ll explore Lake Manyara National Park, venture into the Serengeti to witness the calving grounds of Ndutu, and conclude your tour with a visit to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Animals you will spot on this trip
Your Journey Mapped Out
Ready to set out? Your adventure awaits!
- DAY ONE - ARUSHA - LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK
- DAY TWO - LAKE MANYARA - SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
- DAY THREE - SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK - NGORONGORO
- DAY FOUR - NGORONGORO CRATER - ARUSHA
Day 1
ARUSHA – LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK
On this day, you can choose to go to Tarangire National Park or Lake Manyara National Park. Depending on the time of year, each of these parks offers a different safari experience. Your guide can advise you as to which is best to visit during your safari.
LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK
Welcome to Tanzania! After a relaxed night’s stay in your hotel in Arusha, you will be picked up and embark on a 2-hour drive to reach Lake Manyara National Park.
Along the way, there will be a brief stop at the market town of Mto Wa Mbu. Upon arriving at Lake Manyara National Park, you’ll discover a photographer’s paradise with some of the finest game viewing opportunities worldwide. This park is home to many of Africa’s renowned animals, and the sight of tree-climbing lions is a particular highlight. These majestic predators can often be found lounging in acacia trees, making for exceptional photo opportunities.
Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted by the diverse birdlife in Lake Manyara, featuring large flamingo flocks, soaring birds of prey, and the vividly colored lilacbreasted roller. Following your exploration, you’ll return to your chosen accommodation for dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep
Welcome to Tanzania! After a relaxed night’s stay in your hotel in Arusha, you will be picked up and embark on a 2-hour drive to reach Lake Manyara National Park.
Along the way, there will be a brief stop at the market town of Mto Wa Mbu. Upon arriving at Lake Manyara National Park, you’ll discover a photographer’s paradise with some of the finest game viewing opportunities worldwide. This park is home to many of Africa’s renowned animals, and the sight of tree-climbing lions is a particular highlight. These majestic predators can often be found lounging in acacia trees, making for exceptional photo opportunities. Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted by the diverse birdlife in Lake Manyara, featuring large flamingo flocks, soaring birds of prey, and the vividly colored lilacbreasted roller. Following your exploration, you’ll return to your chosen accommodation for dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep
Accommodation
Budget
Jua Manyara Lodge/Campsite
Featuring a garden a terrace and a restaurant Jua Manyara Lodge & Camp Site provides accommodations in Mto wa Mbu with free WiFi and garden views.
This lodge has free private parking and room service. Featuring a shower the bathroom also provides guests with free toiletries and towels and bed linen are available. Continental and vegetarian breakfast options are available daily at the lodge.
A bicycle rental service is available at Jua Manyara Lodge & Camp Site while cycling can be enjoyed nearby. Lake Manyara Airport is 0.6 miles away and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Mid Range
Pamoja Farm Lodge
Pamoja Farm Lodge beautifully captures the essence of rural Tanzanian life. Surrounded by lush organic farms, thriving wildlife, and the peace of the countryside, the lodge provides a serene experience deeply connected with nature. Despite its rural setting, the lodge maintains an atmosphere of tranquillity and privacy, striking the perfect balance between rustic charm and modern comfort.
The lodge features 14 spacious cottages, each thoughtfully designed to provide infinite views of the surrounding area.
The accommodation at Pamoja Farm Lodge is designed with a nod to traditional African aesthetics. The spacious rooms, equipped with modern amenities and comfort, offer panoramic views of the lush farmland and the vibrant Tanzanian wildlife. Waking up at Pamoja Farm Lodge is a sensory delight, as the sounds and scents of the vibrant Tanzanian countryside greet you each morning.
The culinary journey at Pamoja Farm Lodge is an exciting exploration into Tanzanian cuisine. The lodge’s kitchen prepares dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which come directly from their organic farms, offering a rich palette of flavors. Guests can also enjoy a variety of beverages while taking in the tranquil scenery of the Tanzanian landscape.
Luxury
Manyara Secret Lodge
Manyara Secret is a small, luxurious lodge that can accommodate up to 30 people. Situated directly on Lake Manyara, the lodge offers breathtaking views. The accommodation is renowned for its tranquillity and private plunge pools.
The lodge is equipped with :
- Restaurant with terrace
- Infinity pool (16 metres)
- Solar water heating
- Solar electricity park
- Free Wi-Fi
- Room service
- 24-hour security
The lodge’s chef prepares seasonal dishes in their restaurant or directly on your private terrace.
Accommodation comprises :
- 4 villas for 2 people with private pool and outdoor shower
- 2 villas for 4 people with private pool and outdoor shower
- 1 villa for 6 people with private pool and outdoor shower
- 1 villa for 8 people with private pool and outdoor shower
Day 2
LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK - SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
The focus of most safaris in northern Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is renowned as the arena for the world’s greatest mammal migration. Even away from this iconic wildlife spectacle, the Serengeti’s sheer density of animals makes for incredible wildlife viewing throughout the year. The southern plains near Seronera are the most popular, but it’s also worth exploring the Western Corridor and Mara River regions.
We’ll start the day with a picturesque drive towards the Serengeti. During this journey, we’ll traverse the misty rainforests of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering a chance to spot Cape buffaloes, baboons, and possibly elephants and leopards hiding in the dense undergrowth.
Continuing our journey, we’ll arrive at the Ndutu area in the southern part of Serengeti National Park. Ndutu serves as the traditional calving ground for wildebeest, and during the calving season, it hosts over 1.7 million of these animals as they prepare for their northward migration to Kenya.
While on your game drive, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to witness wildebeest and zebra calves taking their first steps, all while predators hunt for the weakest members of the herd. As you explore the stunning Serengeti landscape during your afternoon game drive, you’ll be immersed in the park’s natural beauty.
For dinner and overnight stay, you’ll be accommodated in the heart of Serengeti National Park.
We’ll start the day with a picturesque drive towards the Serengeti. During this journey, we’ll traverse the misty rainforests of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering a chance to spot Cape buffaloes, baboons, and possibly elephants and leopards hiding in the dense undergrowth.
Continuing our journey, we’ll arrive at the Ndutu area in the southern part of Serengeti National Park. Ndutu serves as the traditional calving ground for wildebeest, and during the calving season, it hosts over 1.7 million of these animals as they prepare for their northward migration to Kenya. While on your game drive, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to witness wildebeest and zebra calves taking their first steps, all while predators hunt for the weakest members of the herd. As you explore the stunning Serengeti landscape during your afternoon game drive, you’ll be immersed in the park’s natural beauty. For dinner and overnight stay, you’ll be accommodated in the heart of Serengeti National Park.
Accommodation
Budget
Tukaone Serengeti Camp
Tukaone Serengeti Camp is an intimate safari camp situated within the Great Serengeti and offering breathtaking views of Hembe Hills and Serengeti plains.
At its exceptional location lies an incredible diversity of fauna and flora; millions of wild animals migrate each year across this vast plain to find sustenance here.
Mid Range
Zawadi Serengeti Camp
Zawadi Serengeti Camp : A Serene Wilderness Escape
Located 40 minutes from Seronera airstrip, Zawadi Serengeti Camp offers an intimate retreat in the heart of the African savanna.
Accommodations
The camp features six comfortable tents with king-size beds, en-suite bathrooms, solar-powered lighting, and private verandas with stunning views. Options for single, double, triple, and family stays are available.
Experience
Enjoy breathtaking sunrises, sunsets, and close encounters with wildlife like buffalos, elephants, and lions. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature with animals often venturing near the camp.
Facilities & Cuisine
Blackout curtains, fireplaces, private bathrooms
Vegan BBQs available on request
Highly rated meals
Activities
Game drives
Nature walks
Evening stargazing
Luxury
Lemala Ewanjan
Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp: Secluded Luxury in the Heart of the Serengeti
Nestled in the game-rich Seronera Valley of Central Serengeti, Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp offers an intimate and luxurious retreat amidst the untamed wilderness. Surrounded by the breathtaking Serengeti Plains, this secluded camp provides the perfect setting for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the magic of the Serengeti.
Highlights at a Glance
- Take to the Skies: Experience a hot air balloon safari (additional cost).
- Nearest Airport: Convenient access via Seronera Airstrip.
- Luxurious Tented Rooms: Only 12 exclusive tents, including one family tent.
- Unmatched Game Drives: Explore the wildlife-packed plains with expert guides.
- Year-Round Wildlife: Exceptional game viewing and resident big cats.
- Prime Migration Viewing: Witness the wildebeest migration from November to January.
Accommodation
Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp features 12 spacious tents, including a family tent, each designed for ultimate comfort.
- Private Decks: Enjoy uninterrupted views of the Serengeti Plains from your personal outdoor space.
- Luxury Amenities: Tents include two queen-size beds with plush duvets for chilly nights, en-suite bathrooms with safari-style showers, and solar-powered lighting.
- Rustic Elegance: The tents are thoughtfully designed with chic canvas exteriors, sturdy wooden flooring, and comfortable furnishings.
- Relaxing Retreats: Sip a refreshing drink on your private lounger as the Serengeti awakens around you.
Dining & Communal Spaces
The camp’s communal mess tent offers a luxurious yet cozy setting:
- Stylish Interiors: Decorated with leather sofas, colorful rugs, and elegant chandeliers.
- Outdoor Campfire: Gather with fellow adventurers to share stories under the starlit sky.
- Dining with a View: Enjoy hearty meals in the dining area overlooking the plains.
Activities at Lemala Ewanjan Tented Camp
Safari Game Drives
Embark on thrilling game drives in open-topped vehicles guided by experts who know the Serengeti inside out. Witness herds of game, lounging big cats, and the spectacular annual migration. Learn about wildlife tracking and conservation efforts while capturing stunning photographs.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies on a hot air balloon safari (additional cost). Float above the vast plains, marvel at the herds below, and savor a bush breakfast upon landing.
Sundowner Tradition
Celebrate the day’s adventures with a classic African sundowner. Relax around the campfire, drink in hand, as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the Serengeti in warm hues.
Day 3
SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK - NGORONGORO
You’ll rise before dawn to embark on a captivating sunrise game drive along the shores of Lake Ndutu. As the sun’s first rays illuminate the landscape, you’ll witness a breathtaking sight. This is a prime opportunity for wildlife observation.
Next, you’ll journey to Lake Masek, a freshwater lake known for its resident waterbirds and hippos. The surrounding area features abundant undergrowth, attracting elephants, giraffes, and antelopes.
Following your time at Lake Masek, you’ll venture into the Serengeti for another exhilarating game drive. In this iconic national park, you’ll have the chance to spot elegant giraffes, agile antelopes, foraging hyenas, sleek cheetahs, elusive leopards, and the majestic lions that have become symbolic of Africa’s wildlife. You can choose to enjoy a picnic lunch and spend the entire day on a game drive or split your day into morning and afternoon sessions, returning to your lodge for lunch in between to refuel and relax.
You’ll rise before dawn to embark on a captivating sunrise game drive along the shores of Lake Ndutu. As the sun’s first rays illuminate the landscape, you’ll witness a breathtaking sight. This is a prime opportunity for wildlife observation.
Next, you’ll journey to Lake Masek, a freshwater lake known for its resident waterbirds and hippos. The surrounding area features abundant undergrowth, attracting elephants, giraffes, and antelopes.
Following your time at Lake Masek, you’ll venture into the Serengeti for another exhilarating game drive. In this iconic national park, you’ll have the chance to spot elegant giraffes, agile antelopes, foraging hyenas, sleek cheetahs, elusive leopards, and the majestic lions that have become symbolic of Africa’s wildlife. You can choose to enjoy a picnic lunch and spend the entire day on a game drive or split your day into morning and afternoon sessions, returning to your lodge for lunch in between to refuel and relax.
Accommodation
Budget
Kon Tiki Migration Camp
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Mid Range
Pamoja Migration Camp
The Pamoja Migration Camp offers you the once-in-a-lifetime experience of witnessing the Great Migration. Sleep in the secluded paradise of the bush, with only canvas separating you from the blanket of stars above. The tents are well-equipped with hot water, flush toilets, and comfortable tents that taking camping to the next level.
This camp offers the height of exclusivity, with only 12 tents. Delicious catering and private butler service elevates your safari experience. In the communal dining tent, sink into comfortable sofas and sip on steaming coffee while taking in the vast view beyond the verandah.
The camp itself follows the migration through the Southern Serengeti, moving from Ndutu between December to April to the Mara River area between June to October.
Luxury
Lemala Ndutu Camp
Lemala Ndutu offers a front-row seat to the breathtaking wildebeest migration from December to March. This prime location features nine luxurious suite tents, thoughtfully relocated from the Northern Serengeti to Ndutu to immerse guests in the heart of the action.
Starting in December, over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras gather in the area, culminating in a spectacular calving season in February.
Day 4
NGORONGORO CRATER - ARUSHA
NGORONGORO CRATER
After breakfast, your journey continues as you depart for the Ngorongoro Crater, a place often regarded as the Eighth Wonder of the World. As you catch your first glimpse of this expansive, lush caldera from a panoramic viewpoint, its reputation will become evident.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to more than 120 species of mammals, including the iconic Big Five. It ranks among the world’s most coveted safari destinations. Here, you have a unique opportunity to witness the solitary and endangered black rhinoceros as it grazes on the grassy plains. Additionally, you can observe a substantial population of hippopotamuses enjoying the refreshing waters.
From the comfort of your open-top vehicle, you’ll have the privilege of observing and photographing some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. After an exhilarating day of adventure, you’ll savor a picnic lunch at the park’s renowned hippo pool. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Arusha.
After breakfast, your journey continues as you depart for the Ngorongoro Crater, a place often regarded as the Eighth Wonder of the World. As you catch your first glimpse of this expansive, lush caldera from a panoramic viewpoint, its reputation will become evident.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to more than 120 species of mammals, including the iconic Big Five. It ranks among the world’s most coveted safari destinations. Here, you have a unique opportunity to witness the solitary and endangered black rhinoceros as it grazes on the grassy plains. Additionally, you can observe a substantial population of hippopotamuses enjoying the refreshing waters.
From the comfort of your open-top vehicle, you’ll have the privilege of observing and photographing some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. After an exhilarating day of adventure, you’ll savor a picnic lunch at the park’s renowned hippo pool. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Arusha.
No Accommodation
Return Back to Arusha
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