7 DAYS SOUTHERN CALVING & CRATER COMBO
A comprehensive 7-day safari focusing on the annual wildebeest calving phenomenon in the Ndutu Plains/Southern Serengeti (Jan-Mar), perfectly balanced with the incredible Big Five density of the Ngorongoro Crater.
Key Highlights of this Specialist Safari
Wildebeest Calving Spectacle
Witness the great herds gather in the Ndutu/Southern Serengeti short grass plains to give birtha prime time for predator action.
Southern Serengeti & Ndutu
Spending dedicated days in the best location (Jan-Mar) to see mass numbers of newborns and the Big Cats that follow them.
Big Five in One Day
Guaranteed full day game drive inside the Ngorongoro Crater, the best place in Tanzania to spot the rare Black Rhino.
7-Day Specialist Calving Itinerary
A comprehensive safari combining Tarangire, Ndutu/Serengeti, and the wildlife wonders of the Ngorongoro Crater.
Morning: Depart from Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park. Upon arrival, embark on a full-day game drive. Tarangire is famous for its massive elephant population and giant baobab trees.
Afternoon Focus: We will explore the Tarangire River, a vital source of water that draws huge concentrations of wildlife, particularly during the dry season. Look out for Pythons, Lions, and a variety of unique birdlife.
Overnight: Lodge/Tented Camp near Tarangire | Highlight: Huge Elephant Herds & Baobab Landscape | Travel: ~3 hrs
Morning: After breakfast, drive north towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and then descend into the vast plains of the Ndutu area, which borders the Serengeti National Park.
Afternoon Focus: We arrive at the mobile camp and then begin an afternoon game drive focused on locating the main wildebeest herds gathering for the calving season (Jan-Mar). This area is also prime hunting ground for cheetah and lion.
Overnight: Mobile Tented Camp in Ndutu/Southern Serengeti | Highlight: Locating the Mega Herd | Activity: Game Drive
Full Day Game Drive: We spend the entire day exploring the Ndutu short-grass plains. During calving season, up to 8,000 calves are born daily, attracting a high density of predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Expert Tracking: Your guide will utilize their deep knowledge of the area and radio communications to ensure you are positioned for the best possible wildlife viewing and predator encounters.
Overnight: Mobile Tented Camp in Ndutu/Southern Serengeti | Highlight: Calving and Predator Hunts | Activity: Full Day Game Drive
Full Day Exploration: Continue the safari deep into the Southern Serengeti, an area renowned for being the original home of the Maasai people and offering endless plains views.
Wildlife: Besides the migration herds, the plains offer excellent viewing of smaller plains game, large lion prides resting on rocky outcrops (kopjes), and various birds of prey attracted by the newborns.
Overnight: Mobile Tented Camp in Ndutu/Southern Serengeti | Highlight: Kopjes Lion Viewing & Endless Plains | Activity: Full Day Game Drive
Morning: Enjoy a final morning game drive as we slowly exit the Ndutu/Southern Serengeti area, making our way up the stunning Ngorongoro Highlands.
Afternoon: Check into your beautiful lodge located on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater or in the nearby town of Karatu. Use the afternoon to relax and enjoy the magnificent views, preparing for the early start tomorrow.
Overnight: Lodge/Tented Camp in Karatu/Crater Rim | Highlight: Scenic Drive & Crater Views | Travel: ~4-5 hrs
The Descent (06:00): Wake up early for the dramatic descent into the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Crater. This natural wonder is home to the highest concentration of wildlife in Africa.
Big Five Specialist: Spend a full day exploring the crater floor, maximizing the opportunity to spot the Big Five, including the endangered Black Rhino, large pride of lions, and huge buffalo herds. Enjoy a picnic lunch before ascending the crater rim in the late afternoon.
Overnight: Lodge/Tented Camp in Karatu/Crater Highlands | Highlight: Big Five, Black Rhino & Crater Scenic Views | Activity: Full Day Game Drive
Morning Leisure: Enjoy a relaxing final breakfast at the lodge in the peaceful Karatu environment. Depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or visit a local craft market for souvenirs.
Departure: Check out and begin the drive back to Arusha City. Your guide will ensure a comfortable and seamless transfer, dropping you off directly at your hotel in Arusha or connecting you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) for your onward international flight.
Overnight: N/A (Departure) | Highlight: Seamless Transfer & Final Views | Travel: ~2.5 - 3 hrs
We guarantee a reply within 24 hours.
Package Details: What's Included & Excluded
Inclusions (What you pay for)
- • All Park entry fees (Tarangire, Serengeti) and Ngorongoro Crater fees (7 days).
- • 6 Nights accommodation (Mix of Mobile Tent Camp & Mid-Range/Luxury Lodge).
- • Full board meals (Breakfast, Lunch/Picnic, Dinner) throughout the safari.
- • Private 4x4 Safari Vehicle (Land Cruiser or Rover) with pop-up roof.
- • Professional, English-speaking guide/driver with extensive wildlife knowledge.
- • Unlimited bottled mineral water and soft drinks during game drives.
Exclusions (What's not included)
- • International flights to and from JRO/ARK.
- • Visa fees for entry into Tanzania.
- • Gratuities (tips) for the guide and lodge staff.
- • Alcoholic beverages and personal purchases.
- • Travel and medical insurance (Mandatory).