Wildebeest Calving Safari - 5 Days
Day
1
Arusha – Ngorongoro Crater
(190 Km – Approx. 4 hrs)
After breakfast, your private driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel, residence, or the airport in Arusha. Settle into your 4×4 safari Land Cruiser as you head toward the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater.
Upon arrival at the crater rim, soak in the spectacular views of this vast, green expanse—home to a dense population of wildlife. Descend into the crater floor for a day of exploration across its diverse habitats of grassland, forest, and swamp. Expect to encounter a variety of wildlife including lions, leopards, elephants, hippos, flamingoes, buffalo, and more.
Later in the afternoon, ascend the steep crater walls and enjoy a magical sunset at the rim before settling in for the night at your lodge or tented camp in the Ngorongoro area.
Day
2
Ngorongoro – Ndutu Area
(86 Km – Approx. 2–3 hrs)
After breakfast, journey toward the Ndutu area, stopping en route at the legendary Olduvai Gorge, an important archaeological site offering insight into early human history.
Upon arrival in Ndutu, get ready for a rich wildlife experience. From December to May, this region is famous for the calving season, when thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles are born daily. Regardless of the season, expect to see lions, cheetahs, giraffes, elephants, monkeys, and many resident species. Your first night in Ndutu will be spent at a lodge or camp, nestled in the heart of the action.
Day
3
Full Day in Ndutu
Today is all about immersive wildlife exploration. Take advantage of unlimited game drives as you track predators and grazers across the Ndutu plains.
If visiting during the calving season, you’ll witness the dramatic scenes of newborn wildebeest taking their first steps amid a high-stakes environment filled with lurking predators.
Outside the season, enjoy sightings of the region’s diverse year-round wildlife and vibrant birdlife. Relax in the evening at your lodge or camp as the sun sets over the plains, marking your second night in Ndutu.
Day
4
Ndutu Area – Lake Manyara
(141 Km – Approx. 3 hrs)
Depart the open plains of Ndutu after breakfast and head toward the scenic landscapes of Lake Manyara National Park. Though compact in size, this park is brimming with wildlife. Keep your eyes open for giraffes, elephants, impalas, baboons, and the occasional warthog.
Lake Manyara is also a paradise for bird lovers, with flocks of flamingoes painting the shoreline pink and a variety of other species like storks, cormorants, and spoonbills. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the park’s elusive tree-climbing lions perched in the acacia trees.
Enjoy your overnight stay at a Lake Manyara lodge or tented camp.
Day
5
Lake Manyara– Arusha
(114 Km – Approx. 2 hrs)
After breakfast, begin the return journey to Arusha, pausing for a scenic lunch en route. Arrive back in the afternoon, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, residence, or the airport, marking the end of your unforgettable safari adventure.
What’s
Included
- All scheduled airport and hotel transfers in Nairobi
- Full-board accommodation in luxury lodges and tented camps
- Daily meals and bottled water throughout the safari
- AMREF Flying Doctors emergency evacuation cover
- Extensive game drives in a private 4×4 safari vehicle
- Regional flights (e.g., Nairobi to Masai Mara, Amboseli to Nairobi)
- Professional English-speaking safari driver-guide
- All national park entry fees and government levies
- Reusable safari water bottle (eco-friendly initiative)
- Customized, private travel experience
What’s
Not Included
- International airfare and related taxes
- Visa application fees and processing
- Comprehensive travel and medical insurance
- Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and staff
- Optional activities and excursions not listed in the itinerary
- Premium alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks
- Laundry, phone, and personal expenses during travel
Tips Before You Travel
Be safari-ready with key tips, essentials, and answers to common questions.
1. Timing Your Visit
Choose the best season based on wildlife activity, weather, and migration patterns. For example, the Great Migration in the Serengeti typically occurs between July and October.
2. Travel Documents
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Apply for your visa online in advance for faster processing.
3. Health & Vaccinations
Yellow fever vaccination may be required depending on your origin. It’s also advisable to take malaria prophylaxis and carry a small medical kit.
4. What to Pack
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Apply for your visa online in advance for faster processing.
5. Currency & Tipping
Carry small amounts of USD or local currency. Tipping is appreciated — approx. $10–$15/day per guest for guides and $5–$10/day for camp staff.
6. Connectivity & SIM Cards
Wi-Fi is available in many lodges but may be limited. Local SIM cards are available in major cities like Nairobi or Arusha.
7. Safari Etiquette
Respect wildlife by maintaining silence and not feeding animals. Always follow your guide’s instructions and stay within designated paths.
8. Emergency Contacts
Keep a copy of important contact numbers: your tour operator, embassy, and local emergency services.
Accommodation Highlights
Experience exceptional hospitality and comfort while immersed in nature. Each handpicked lodge or tented camp has been selected for its location, charm, and unique safari experience.
Sweetwaters Serena Camp
Nanyuki, Kenya
Highlight: Located inside Ol Pejeta Conservancy with an award-winning chimpanzee sanctuary
Unique Feature: Wildlife-viewing deck where rhinos and elephants frequently visit
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