6-Day Ndutu Migration Safari
Duration
6 Days, 5 Nights
Tour Type
Game Drive
Transport
4x4 Safari Vehicle
This 6-day safari is crafted for the peak of the wildebeest calving season, when the Great Migration gathers in the rich plains of Ndutu, located between the Southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. During this time, over 500,000 calves are born within weeks, attracting intense predator activity and offering some of the most dramatic wildlife encounters in Africa. You’ll also explore Tarangire National Park, known for elephants and baobabs, and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a haven for the Big Five.
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After breakfast in Arusha, you’ll drive to Tarangire National Park for your first game drive. The park is home to massive baobab trees, river valleys, and large herds of elephants. Depending on the season, Tarangire also offers exceptional predator sightings and varied birdlife. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch and continue exploring the park before heading to your nearby lodge.
Distance: Approx. 2.5–3 hours by road
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Options:
Standard: Sangaiwe Tented Lodge / Tarangire Safari Lodge
Luxury: Lemala Mpingo Ridge / Tarangire Sopa Lodge
Day 2: Tarangire to Ndutu Area
Leave Tarangire after breakfast and travel across the Ngorongoro highlands toward Ndutu, located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and bordering Serengeti National Park. This region is the heart of the wildebeest calving season from December to March. On arrival, you’ll enjoy an introductory game drive and settle in as the plains come alive with wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, and predators.
Distance: Approx. 6 hours by road
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Options:
Standard: Ndutu Heritage Camp / Lake Ndutu Tented Camp
Luxury: Lemala Ndutu Camp / Serengeti Safari Camp (Nomad)
Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive in Ndutu (Calving Season)
Today is dedicated to exploring the Ndutu plains during the height of the Great Migration’s calving season. You’ll witness thousands of newborn wildebeest, often taking their first steps—and attracting predators such as lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards. Your guide will tailor the route based on wildlife movements. Enjoy lunch in the bush and return to camp as the sun sets across the plains.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Options:
Standard: Ndutu Heritage Camp / Lake Ndutu Tented Camp
Luxury: Lemala Ndutu Camp / Serengeti Safari Camp (Nomad)
Day 4: Another Day in Ndutu – Explore Marshes & Woodlands
Enjoy another full day in Ndutu, exploring the varied habitats—open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and alkaline lakes like Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek. These diverse ecosystems support both grazers and predators, offering great chances to witness hunting scenes. The flexibility of off-road driving (allowed in the NCA) allows for more intimate wildlife encounters.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Options:
Standard: Ndutu Heritage Camp / Lake Ndutu Tented Camp
Luxury: Lemala Ndutu Camp / Serengeti Safari Camp (Nomad)
Day 5: Ndutu to Ngorongoro Crater Rim
After a morning game drive and relaxed breakfast, begin your journey to the Ngorongoro Crater rim. En route, you may stop for scenic viewpoints and optional cultural visits (e.g., Maasai village or Olduvai Gorge). Arrive at your lodge overlooking the crater in the late afternoon and enjoy the cooler climate and stunning views.
Distance: Approx. 2–3 hours by road
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation Options:
Standard: Rhino Lodge / Ngorongoro Forest Tented Lodge
Luxury: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge / The Highlands Ngorongoro
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive – Return to Arusha
Wake early for a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife locations. The crater hosts a self-contained ecosystem with dense wildlife populations including black rhinos, lions, elephants, hippos, and flamingos. After a half-day game drive and picnic lunch on the crater floor, ascend and return to Arusha by evening.
Distance: 3–4 hours game drive + 4–5 hours to Arusha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Not included (can be arranged on request)
Tour Includes:
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking guide
All park entry and crater fees
Full-board accommodation as specified
Bottled drinking water during safari
Government taxes and levies
Tour Excludes:
International and domestic flights
Travel insurance
Tips and gratuities
Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, drinks)
Accommodation in Arusha (can be arranged on request)