Track Africa’s most iconic animals during one of the most extraordinary events in the natural world — the Great Calving Season. This 7-day safari combines the Big Five safari experience with front-row access to the wildebeest birthing spectacle in the Ndutu region of Southern Serengeti.
Begin your journey in Lake Manyara National Park, known for its lush forest and tree-climbing lions, before diving into the Southern Serengeti plains, where thousands of wildebeest calves are born daily — and predators circle in pursuit. Then descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with game, including endangered black rhinos.
This itinerary blends breathtaking landscapes, dramatic wildlife moments, and premium lodges, making it ideal for photographers, couples, and wildlife lovers alike.
Calving season unfolds across the lush southern Serengeti. Over 500,000 newborn wildebeest are delivered, attracting predators and offering thrilling game viewing.
As the rains give way to golden grasslands, the herds begin their movement northwest, creating picturesque scenes across the Western Corridor.
This is the most dramatic period, as the herds cross the crocodile-infested Mara River. Ideal for witnessing high-stakes survival and iconic wildlife moments.
The herds make their journey south once more, passing through the central and eastern Serengeti in a quieter, more exclusive safari window.
| Group Size | 2 ppl | 4 ppl | 6 ppl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | None | None | None |
| Group Size | 2 ppl | 4 ppl | 6 ppl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | None | None | None |
| Group Size | 2 ppl | 4 ppl | 6 ppl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | None | None | None |
Day 1
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Enjoy a relaxing evening with views of Mount Meru as you prepare for the wildlife adventure ahead.
Planet Lodge
Lodge — 3★Arusha
Day 2
After breakfast, head west to Lake Manyara National Park. Explore a stunning mix of forest, lake, and acacia woodland teeming with baboons, elephants, flamingos, and elusive tree-climbing lions.
Picnic lunch near the lake shore, followed by an afternoon game drive before ascending to your lodge on the escarpment with breathtaking valley views.
Day 3
Today, drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area en route to Ndutu, located in Southern Serengeti — the center of calving activity.
Arrive in time for an evening game drive across the plains, where wildebeest gather in massive numbers, and predators linger nearby.
Day 4
Spend the entire day exploring the Ndutu plains. Thousands of wildebeest calves are born daily, and lions, cheetahs, and hyenas roam the area, creating dramatic scenes of survival.
Your guide will lead you off the beaten tracks for close wildlife encounters, perfect for photography and storytelling.
Day 5
Enjoy a final morning game drive in Ndutu, then ascend to the Ngorongoro Crater rim. Along the way, pass by Maasai villages and sweeping highland views.
Relax at your lodge perched on the crater’s edge.
Day 6
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife haven that’s home to the Big Five, including the endangered black rhino. Enjoy game viewing around the central lake and grassy plains, where lions, elephants, and buffaloes roam.
Day 7
Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your international flight, or opt for a short domestic flight to Zanzibar for a relaxing beach extension — white sands and turquoise waters await.
Showing 1 accommodations
the best hotel in arusha, you need all your trust to be on this hotgelthe …
$95.00
View DetailsQuieter parks, fewer crowds, lower rates.
| Accommodation Class | 2 ppl | 4 ppl | 6+ ppl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid Luxury | $ | $ | $ |
| Luxury | $ | $ | $ |
| High-end | $ | $ | $ |
Pleasant weather, moderate rates, balanced experience.
| Accommodation Class | 2 ppl | 4 ppl | 6+ ppl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid Luxury | $ | $ | $ |
| Luxury | $ | $ | $ |
| High-end | $ | $ | $ |
Peak season: best wildlife sightings, premium rates.
| Accommodation Class | 2 ppl | 4 ppl | 6+ ppl |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid Luxury | $ | $ | $ |
| Luxury | $ | $ | $ |
| High-end | $ | $ | $ |
* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets
Your 5-day journey at a glance
Discover another bucket-list journey
