- Arusha Tanzania
- +255 779 277 811
- info@clotildasafaris.com
- +255 779 277 811
- info@clotildasafaris.com
5 Days Ndutu Calving Season Serengeti Migration Tanzania Safari
Price Per Person
$ 2070 Based on 2 Pax
About this tour
On this unforgettable 5-day safari, you’ll witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the calving season of the wildebeest migration. During this time of year (December to March), the herds of wildebeest and zebras gather in the Ndutu area, located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and forming part of the vast Serengeti ecosystem.
From January onwards, the short-grass plains of Ndutu become the stage for dramatic scenes as thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators that lie in wait for their chance to hunt. This is the best time to witness new life, intense predator action, and the sheer power of the migration.
Your journey will take you through Tarangire National Park, South Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater, offering diverse wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes throughout the adventure.
Day by day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Meals:
Lunch & Dinner
Destination:
Arusha
Accommodation
Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa
Activity
Game Drive in Tarangire
You will be picked up from the airport by Clotilda Safaris representative and conveyed to your accommodation in Arusha where you will overnight, relax, and prepare in anticipation of the adventures to come.
Day 2 Arusha to Tarangire National Park.
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Destination:
Tarangire National Park.
Accommodation
Suricate boma lodge
Activity
Game Drive
In the morning, your safari guide will collect you from your Arusha lodging. You will drive towards Tarangire National Park along a smooth tarmac road that passes through gently rolling Maasai plains dotted with acacia trees. Along the way, you’ll see Maasai in their vibrant attire walking by the roadside, herding cattle, riding bicycles, or driving donkey carts.
Tarangire National Park is famous for its large elephant population but is also home to many other animals. From the open roof of the safari jeep, you’ll explore seasonal swamps, wide savannas, and the life-giving Tarangire River, with chances to spot zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, elephant, giraffe, and more. With luck, you might see lions on the hunt or leopards resting in the trees.
After the game drive and taking in the diverse wildlife and scenery, you will head to your accommodation for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3 South Serengeti (Ndutu)
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Destination:
Serengeti National Park
Accommodation
Ang’ata Ndutu
Activity
Game Drive
After breakfast, we will head to the Lake Ndutu region, situated in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a sublime landscape of the southern Serengeti ecosystem. The drive takes approximately 3 hrs, taking us across the beautiful landscape of The Rift Valley Lake Ndutu, alkaline like most of the other Rift Valley is frequently inhabited by a wide array of wildlife.
with appetites sated, undertake our game drive in the Ndutu region. The majority of the wildebeest migration can normally be found on the short-grass plains from December to April. After the late afternoon game drive, you will drive to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Day 4 South Serengeti (Ndutu)
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Destination:
Ngorongoro crater
Accommodation
Ang’ata Ndutu
Activity
Game Drive / Departure
After our hearty breakfast, we head out to enjoy a full day game drive in the Ndutu region. We endeavor to explore the range of different habitats found here that include swamps, woodland, soda lakes, and the world-famous Serengeti short grass plains. We will see the awesome sight of the great thronging herds of wildebeest and zebra.
During a short time frame around January, normally lasting for about 3 weeks, the majority of the wildebeest calves, dropping in the region of half a million young in this awesome act of synchronized birthing. The sea of grass provides little cover and the young Wildebeest calves can run minutes after they are born and within 3 days they are normally strong enough to keep up with the herd.
As our full day of adventure upon the ‘Endless Plain,’ we depart to our accommodation for dinner and Overnight.
Day 5 Ndutu to Ngorongoro Crater
Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Destination:
Ngorongoro crater
Accommodation
Mid-Range Lodge
Activity
Game Drive / Departure
After our hearty breakfast, we head out to enjoy a full day game drive in the Ndutu region. We endeavor to explore the range of different habitats found here that include swamps, woodland, soda lakes, and the world-famous Serengeti short grass plains. We will see the awesome sight of the great thronging herds of wildebeest and zebra.
During a short time frame around January, normally lasting for about 3 weeks, the majority of the wildebeest calves, dropping in the region of half a million young in this awesome act of synchronized birthing. The sea of grass provides little cover and the young Wildebeest calves can run minutes after they are born and within 3 days they are normally strong enough to keep up with the herd.
As our full day of adventure upon the ‘Endless Plain,’ we depart to our accommodation for dinner and Overnight.
Price Per Person - Valid for Trips all arond the year
Mid - Range Lodging:
Luxury Lodging:
Included
- All Park entrances & taxes
- All Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner),
- soft drinks & water (bottled water 3litres or more a day)
- Transfer to & from the airport
- Accommodation during safari
- Transportation in a custom safari 4×4 with a viewing roof and guaranteed window seating
- Safari vehicles have an inverter for charging batteries, communications radio, electric cooler, and filtered water.
Excluded
- Tips for guides, cook
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania Visa fee
- Balloons In Serengeti ($600 per person )
INQUIRE THIS TOUR
General tour information
Tanzania visa information
Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania.
Visas can be obtained:
- Online via the eVisa system.
- On arrival at major airports (JRO, DAR, ZNZ).
- In advance from a Tanzanian embassy or consulate.
Cost:
- $50 for most nationalities.
- $100 for U.S. citizens.
Passport requirements:
- Valid for at least six months beyond travel dates.
- At least one blank page for entry stamps.
Bookings & Confirmations
- Advance booking is highly recommended, especially for peak seasons (June–October & December–February).
- A deposit is typically required to confirm a reservation.
- Full payment is usually due weeks before departure.
- Upon confirmation, you will receive:
- Detailed itinerary.
- Accommodation information.
- Essential travel details (permits, packing lists, etc.).
Cancellation Policy
- We understand that travel plans may change. Our cancellation policy is as follows:
- More than 60 days before departure: Full refund minus the deposit.
- 30–59 days before departure: 50% refund.
- Less than 30 days before departure: No refund.
- No-show or early departure: No refund.
- We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and trekking activities.
Accommodation information
Tanzania offers various accommodation options:Budget:
- Camping & basic lodges.
- Mid-range: Standard lodges & tented camps.
- Luxury: High-end lodges & private tented camps.
Popular safari destinations for accommodations:
- Serengeti,
- Ngorongoro Crater,
- Tarangire, Selous, and Zanzibar.
Most lodges provide:
- Full-board services (meals included).
- Eco-friendly facilities & stunning natural settings.
Early booking is recommended, especially in high-demand areas.
Additional Travel Information
Currency & Payments:
- Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency.
- USD is widely accepted, but carrying small cash is advised.
- Credit cards are accepted in most hotels & lodges.
Health & Vaccinations:
- Yellow fever vaccination required if
- traveling from an endemic country.
- Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, routine immunizations.
- Malaria prevention is advised; carry appropriate medication.
Language & Communication:
- Swahili is the national language, but English is widely spoken.
- Mobile network coverage is available in most tourist areas.
- Wi-Fi is accessible in most lodges and hotels.
Time Zone & Electricity:
- East Africa Time (EAT) – UTC+3.
- Standard voltage: 230V.
- Power plugs: Type D & G – A universal adapter is recommended.
Flights to Tanzania
- International Airport: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the closest airport to Moshi, about 45 minutes away.
Alternative Airports:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar
From these airports, you can take a domestic flight to JRO with Air Tanzania, Precision Air, or Coastal Aviation.
Important Requirments
Luggate Restrictions
Weight Limit:
Domestic flights in Tanzania have strict baggage limits, typically 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, including carry-on.
Bag Type:
Soft-sided duffel bags are recommended for easy storage on small aircraft and safari vehicles.
Prohibited Items:
Avoid packing plastic bags as they are banned in Tanzania.
Additional Charges: Excess baggage fees may apply if you exceed the airline’s weight limit.
Health Information
Vaccinations:
- Yellow fever vaccination is required if traveling from or transiting through an endemic country.
- Recommended vaccinations: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Rabies (for those spending extended time in remote areas).
Malaria Prevention:
- Tanzania is a malaria-risk area; consult a doctor for antimalarial medication.
- Use insect repellent with DEET and sleep under a mosquito net when available.
Water & Food Safety:
- Drink only bottled or filtered water.
- Avoid raw or unpeeled fruits and vegetables unless properly washed.
Travel Insurance:
- Highly recommended to cover medical emergencies and evacuation.
Weather in Tanzania
Dry Season (June – October):
- Best time for wildlife viewing with clear skies.
- Cooler temperatures, especially in the early mornings and evenings.
Short Rainy Season (November – December):
- Occasional short rains, but safaris are still possible.
Green Season (January – March):
- Lush landscapes, great for photography and birdwatching.
- Ideal time for calving season in the Serengeti.
Long Rainy Season (April – May):
- Heavy rains, some lodges may close, and roads can be muddy.
What to Pack for a Tanzania Safari
Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable clothes in neutral colors (khaki, green, beige).
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun and insect protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings.
- Waterproof jacket during the rainy season.
Footwear:
- Comfortable hiking or safari boots.
- Sandals for lodge stays.
Accessories:
- Hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen.
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
Personal Essentials:
- Personal medications and a small first aid kit.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Small backpack for day trips.
“This was the most unforgettable experience of my life! I captured stunning and rare wildlife photos, with incredible sightings that left me in awe. The expert guidance from our guide helped me improve my photography skills, and my memory cards were completely full! Beyond the safari, I loved visiting a local Maasai village, where I had the chance to photograph the vibrant culture, daily life, and the hardworking women in the fields. Every moment felt authentic and deeply inspiring. I can’t wait to return to Tanzania and explore even more breathtaking locations!”
Jane P.
Plan your Tanzania adventure
Looking for a Custom Safari Adventure?
From the moment you begin planning your adventure with Clotilda Safaris, we’re here to guide you through every detail, creating a personalized itinerary tailored to your preferences and level of exclusivity. While our remote team manages bookings, transfers, and activity arrangements, our dedicated ground team is available 24/7 to assist with any needs, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.