8 Days Southern Serengeti & Ngorongoro Calving Safari
OVERVIEW
This 8-day itinerary offers a powerful blend of two of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife experiences: the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater and the wildebeest calving season in the Ndutu plains. Start your journey in Karatu with a full-day safari in the Ngorongoro Crater, then continue to the southern Serengeti to witness the miracle of life as thousands of wildebeest give birth. With expert guides, comfortable lodges, and immersive game drives, this safari ensures unforgettable encounters with nature at its most raw and spectacular.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha & Transfer to Karatu
Arrive at JRO, meet your Safari Trackers guide. Transfer to a charming lodge near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Karatu area) (e.g., Plantation Lodge). Enjoy the scenic countryside.
Dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Plantation Lodge or similar (Full Board)
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Early departure to descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive. Witness the high concentration of wildlife in this natural wonder. Picnic lunch on the crater floor. Return to your lodge in Karatu for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Plantation Lodge or similar (Full Board)
Day 3: Drive to Ndutu Area – Calving Focus
After breakfast, drive to the Ndutu area in the southern Serengeti. Check into your lodge or camp (e.g., Ndutu Safari Lodge or Lake Masek Tented Camp). Afternoon game drive focusing on the calving herds.
Dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Ndutu Safari Lodge or Lake Masek Tented Camp or similar (Full Board)
Day 4 – Day 5: Exploring the Calving Plains
Full days dedicated to witnessing the incredible calving season in the Ndutu area. Observe the newborn wildebeest and the predator activity. Your guide will provide insights into this vital stage of the Great Migration.
Accommodation: Ndutu Safari Lodge or Lake Masek Tented Camp or similar (Full Board)
Day 6: Ndutu & Lake Masek Exploration
Continue exploring the Ndutu plains and the area around Lake Masek, another key location during the calving season. Birdwatching opportunities around the lake.
Accommodation: Ndutu Safari Lodge or Lake Masek Tented Camp or similar (Full Board)
Day 7: Ndutu Game Drive & Flight to Arusha
Final morning game drive in the Ndutu area. Fly from Ndutu Airstrip back to Arusha. Overnight in Arusha (e.g., The African Tulip).
Accommodation: The African Tulip or similar (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 8: Departure
Transfer to JRO for your onward flight.
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
Price includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- 4×4 safari vehicle with a guaranteed window seat
- Service of an English-speaking driver/guide
- All meals and accommodation during the safari
- Park fees
- 1.5 liters of bottled mineral water per person per day
Price Excludes
- International and domestic flight tickets
- Visa fees and travel insurance
- Tipping and gratuities
- Souvenirs
- Personal items like telephones, laundry, mosquito repellent, etc.
- Excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
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