New Life on the Plains: 7-Day Calving Season Safari
SAFARI SNAPSHOT
This 7-day safari takes you to the heart of the Southern Serengeti during calving season — when hundreds of thousands of wildebeest give birth on the rich Ndutu plains. It’s a time of dramatic predator action and lush green landscapes. Paired with Ngorongoro and Tarangire, this itinerary promises intense wildlife moments and authentic safari charm.
Best Time: Late January to March
Your Safari Day Plan
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where your Serengeti Sphere Safaris guide will greet you. Private transfer to your boutique lodge in Arusha. Enjoy a safari briefing and welcome dinner as you settle into Tanzania.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, about 2 hours away. Begin exploring the rolling savannah dotted with ancient baobabs. Watch herds of elephants, zebras, buffalo, and predators lounging in the shade. Picnic lunch overlooking the river. Late afternoon, drive to your nearby lodge for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Tarangire – Southern Serengeti / Ndutu
Enjoy breakfast then head towards the rich grasslands of the Southern Serengeti and the famous Ndutu region, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Picnic lunch en route with possible stops for wildlife sightings. Arrive at your luxury camp in Ndutu for sunset, dinner and overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Ndutu Plains – Calving Season Magic
Spend the day on morning and afternoon game drives across the Ndutu plains — the heart of calving season. Witness thousands of newborn wildebeest calves and the intense predator action they attract: big prides of lions, cheetahs on the hunt, and hyenas lurking nearby. Return to camp for a relaxed evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Ndutu Plains – More Predators & New Life
Another full day exploring the Ndutu area. Drive through acacia woodland, open grassland and seasonal marshes. Your guide positions you for prime photography of newborns and predator encounters. Midday picnic in the bush or hot lunch at camp. Sunset sundowners back at camp, followed by dinner under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Ndutu – Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Enjoy a final morning game drive in Ndutu to capture sunrise shots. After brunch, drive slowly towards the Ngorongoro highlands. Optional stop at Olduvai Gorge for a short tour. Arrive at your lodge perched on the crater rim with stunning views. Dinner served fireside.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater – Return to Arusha
Early breakfast then descend into the Ngorongoro Crater — home to the Big Five in a single caldera. Enjoy a half-day game drive and picnic brunch near the hippo pool. Ascend the crater walls by midday and begin your drive back to Arusha or transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Safari Includes
All park fees
Professional safari guide/driver
4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Daily game drives as per itinerary
Accommodation as specified
All meals as specified in the itinerary
Drinking water in the safari vehicle
Camping equipment (for budget camping safaris)
Pick up and drop off at your accommodation
Government taxes and VAT
Safari Excludes
International and domestic flights
Tanzanian visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (e.g., drinks at lodges/camps, souvenirs, laundry)
Tips and gratuities (highly appreciated)
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., Maasai village visit, balloon safari)
Hotel accommodation before and after safari (can be arranged on request)
Additional meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
Reserve Your Safari Experience
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