8-Day Big Five & Calving Season Safari (8-Day Itinerary)


From : $1234
Dates : jan - Mar
Badge : Luxury
Optional : Balloon Safari

What to Expect on this 8-Day Big Five & Calving Season Safari

Experience the Circle of Life in the Heart of the Serengeti

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Northern Tanzania during one of nature’s most spectacular events — the Great Migration calving season. This exclusive 8-day safari takes you deep into the Southern Serengeti's Lake Ndutu region, where over half a million wildebeest give birth in synchrony, drawing an extraordinary concentration of predators.

From the towering baobabs of Tarangire to the wildlife-rich floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, and on to the short-grass plains of Ndutu, every day brings breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling game drives. Witness lion prides on the hunt, cheetah chases at dawn, and newborn calves taking their first steps.

Led by a professional Africano Paraiso guide in a private 4x4 vehicle, you'll enjoy hand-picked accommodations ranging from charming lodges to intimate migration camps — all designed for comfort, immersion, and unforgettable views.

Whether you're a seasoned wildlife photographer or a curious explorer, this safari promises front-row access to the drama, beauty, and rhythm of the wild during its most magical season.


The Great Migration Timetable
January – March

Calving season unfolds across the lush southern Serengeti. Over 500,000 newborn wildebeest are delivered, attracting predators and offering thrilling game viewing.

April – June

As the rains give way to golden grasslands, the herds begin their movement northwest, creating picturesque scenes across the Western Corridor.

July – September

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.

October – December

The herds make their journey south once more, passing through the central and eastern Serengeti in a quieter, more exclusive safari window.

Pricing & Seasons


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
What’s Included

  • Expert-led game drives in a private 4×4 vehicle
  • Luxury accommodations with daily breakfast
  • All government taxes, park fees & VAT
  • Unlimited mileage throughout your journey
  • Complimentary drinking water & hot beverages
What’s Not Included

  • International or domestic flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Gratuities & personal expenses
Arrival in Arusha – Start of Your Northern Tanzania Safari Adventure Day 1

Arrival in Arusha – Start of Your Northern Tanzania Safari Adventure

Kilimanjaro Airport

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your Africano Paraiso guide welcomes you. Transfer to your serene lodge in Arusha and unwind amid lush gardens and views of Mount Meru.

Relax and recharge after your journey. Tomorrow, the adventure begins across Tanzania’s iconic wildlife landscapes.

Accommodation
Planet Lodge

Planet Lodge

Lodge — 3★

Arusha

Tarangire National Park Safari – Baobabs, Elephants & Wildlife Encounters Day 2

Tarangire National Park Safari – Baobabs, Elephants & Wildlife Encounters

Tarangire

Journey to Tarangire, famous for its ancient baobab trees and impressive elephant herds. Watch for giraffes, buffalo, and lions during your full-day game drive.

Enjoy a scenic picnic by the Tarangire River, then head to Karatu for a cozy overnight stay in the foothills of the Ngorongoro Highlands.

Accommodation
Marera Valley Lodge

Marera Valley Lodge

Lodge — 4★

Karatu

Ngorongoro Crater Safari – Big Five Game Viewing in a Volcanic Caldera Day 3

Ngorongoro Crater Safari – Big Five Game Viewing in a Volcanic Caldera

Ngorongoro

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a haven for lions, rhinos, elephants, and hippos. Explore this incredible ecosystem, where the Big Five roam against a backdrop of crater walls.

Savor a picnic lunch near a hippo pool amidst one of Africa’s most scenic game drive landscapes. In the evening, head to your lodge inside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to dine and relax surrounded by breathtaking crater views.

Accommodation
Embalakai Tented Camp Ngorongoro

Embalakai Tented Camp Ngorongoro

Tented Camp — 4★

Ngorongoro

Southern Serengeti Ndutu Safari – Gateway to the Great Migration Calving Season Day 4

Southern Serengeti Ndutu Safari – Gateway to the Great Migration Calving Season

Ndutu

Travel into the Ndutu region of the Southern Serengeti, where the Great Migration is in full swing. Your drive takes you through the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Arrive at your mobile camp or lodge in time for an evening game drive — the plains are alive with newborn wildebeest and hunting predators.

Accommodation
Request Accommodation

Request Accommodation

Lodge — 3★

Kilimanjaro/Arusha

Wildebeest Calving Season – Ndutu Safari Experience with Predators and Newborns Day 5

Wildebeest Calving Season – Ndutu Safari Experience with Predators and Newborns

Ndutu

Wake up surrounded by thousands of wildebeest calves taking their first steps. This extraordinary time draws lions, cheetahs, and hyenas to the feast.

Spend the day immersed in wildlife action — a dream setting for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Accommodation
Request Accommodation

Request Accommodation

Lodge — 3★

Kilimanjaro/Arusha

Ndutu Predator Safari – Cheetahs, Lions, and Wildlife Action on the Plains Day 6

Ndutu Predator Safari – Cheetahs, Lions, and Wildlife Action on the Plains

Ndutu

Today offers another chance to explore the drama of the Serengeti. Watch cheetahs sprint across open plains, lions lounge under acacia trees, and scavengers trail behind.

Pause for a bush breakfast or golden-hour sundowner, soaking in the untamed rhythm of the wild.

Accommodation
Request Accommodation

Request Accommodation

Lodge — 3★

Kilimanjaro/Arusha

Drive from Ndutu to Karatu – Scenic Journey through Ngorongoro Highlands Day 7

Drive from Ndutu to Karatu – Scenic Journey through Ngorongoro Highlands

Karatu

Say goodbye to the Serengeti and begin your return to Karatu, driving past crater rims, Maasai herders, and misty highlands.

Arrive in Karatu and enjoy your final evening with stories around the fireplace and views across the rolling hills.

Accommodation
Marera Valley Lodge

Marera Valley Lodge

Lodge — 4★

Karatu

End of Your Safari – Transfer to Arusha or Flight to Zanzibar Extension Day 8

End of Your Safari – Transfer to Arusha or Flight to Zanzibar Extension

Kilimanjaro - Tanzania

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before driving back to Arusha. Depending on your plans, stop for last-minute souvenirs or connect to your outbound flight.

Want more? Ask about extending your journey to Zanzibar — where white-sand beaches and turquoise waters await.

...

Showing 4 accommodations

Planet Lodge
Planet Lodge
Lodge • 3

the best hotel in arusha, you need all your trust to be on this hotgelthe …

$95.00

View Details
Marera Valley Lodge
Marera Valley Lodge
Lodge • 4

Marera Valley Lodge is the newest addition to the Bougainvillea Group, situated on the outskirts …

$200.00

View Details
Embalakai Tented Camp Ngorongoro
Embalakai Tented Camp Ngorongoro
Tented Camp • 4

Experience the epitome of luxury and exclusivity at our intimate camp. With 10 lavish guest …

$0.00

View Details
Request Accommodation
Request Accommodation
Lodge • 3

Reach out to our team to pick the ideal mid-range hotel accommodation for your stay.

$0.00

View Details
Low Season Rates

Quieter parks, fewer crowds, lower rates.

Accommodation Class 2 ppl 4 ppl 6+ ppl
Mid Luxury $ $ $
Luxury $ $ $
High-end $ $ $
Mid Season Rates

Pleasant weather, moderate rates, balanced experience.

Accommodation Class 2 ppl 4 ppl 6+ ppl
Mid Luxury $ $ $
Luxury $ $ $
High-end $ $ $
High Season Rates

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

Itinerary Overview

Your 5-day journey at a glance

8-Day Itinerary Overview

  • Day 1
    Arrival in Arusha – Start of Your Northern Tanzania Safari Adventure
    Kilimanjaro Airport
  • Day 2
    Tarangire National Park Safari – Baobabs, Elephants & Wildlife Encounters
    Tarangire
  • Day 3
    Ngorongoro Crater Safari – Big Five Game Viewing in a Volcanic Caldera
    Ngorongoro
  • Day 4
    Southern Serengeti Ndutu Safari – Gateway to the Great Migration Calving Season
    Ndutu
  • Day 5
    Wildebeest Calving Season – Ndutu Safari Experience with Predators and Newborns
    Ndutu
  • Day 6
    Ndutu Predator Safari – Cheetahs, Lions, and Wildlife Action on the Plains
    Ndutu
  • Day 7
    Drive from Ndutu to Karatu – Scenic Journey through Ngorongoro Highlands
    Karatu
  • Day 8
    End of Your Safari – Transfer to Arusha or Flight to Zanzibar Extension
    Kilimanjaro - Tanzania