Experience one of nature’s most extraordinary wildlife spectacles during Tanzania’s legendary calving season. Between December and March, the fertile plains of Southern Serengeti and Ndutu become the birthplace of hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, creating an unforgettable safari filled with dramatic predator-prey encounters, lush green landscapes, and exceptional photographic opportunities.
From the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater to the wildlife-rich Ndutu region and the iconic Central Serengeti, this carefully crafted journey offers front-row seats to one of Africa’s greatest natural events while combining luxury accommodations, expert guiding, and unforgettable game drives.
Arusha → Ngorongoro Crater → Ndutu → Central Serengeti → Arusha
DAY 1
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be warmly welcomed by your Shiri Adventures guide and transferred to Gran Meliá Arusha. Surrounded by lush gardens and coffee plantations, it’s the perfect place to relax before your safari begins.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere as you prepare for the incredible wildlife experiences ahead.
DAY 2
After breakfast, journey to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries. Descend to the crater floor for an unforgettable game drive, where elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and countless other species thrive within this natural wonder.
Later, continue to the Ndutu region, where the Great Migration gathers during the calving season, and settle into your safari camp.
DAY 3
Spend the day exploring the vast plains of Ndutu, where the Great Migration reaches one of its most extraordinary moments during the calving season. Thousands of wildebeest gather here to give birth, attracting predators and creating unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Enjoy flexible game drives across this wildlife-rich ecosystem before returning to camp for a relaxing evening under the African sky.
DAY 4
After a final morning game drive in Ndutu, continue north into the iconic Central Serengeti. As the landscape transforms into endless golden plains, keep watch for resident wildlife including lions, cheetahs, elephants, and giraffes along the way.
Arrive in Central Serengeti for an afternoon game drive before settling into your luxury tented camp, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
DAY 5
Wake up to another beautiful morning in the Serengeti and set out for a final game drive through one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. With excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five and a variety of resident wildlife, every drive offers something new to discover.
After a memorable morning in the bush, return to your camp to relax and enjoy your final evening surrounded by the timeless beauty of the Serengeti.
DAY 6
After breakfast, enjoy a final scenic drive as you make your way to the nearest airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Arusha. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to either Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward journey or to your hotel if you’ve arranged additional nights.
As your calving season safari comes to an end, you’ll depart with unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s spectacular wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and one of nature’s greatest annual events.
Gran Melia Arusha – elegant arrival in northern Tanzania
Kubukubu Tented lodge – intimate tented camp in the plains
Manyara’s Secret – boutique forest retreat overlooking the Rift Valley
Each stay reflects the landscape around it.
This safari operates year round.
Key details to help plan smoothly.
What makes a fly-in safari different?
Fly-in safaris reduce long road journeys and allow travelers to spend more time exploring wildlife areas.
How long is the flight to the Serengeti?
Flights from Arusha to the Serengeti usually take about one hour.
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. It combines Tanzania’s most iconic parks in a short and well-balanced itinerary.
Can this safari connect with Zanzibar?
Yes. Many travelers fly directly to Zanzibar after the safari.
Is the safari private?
Yes. All game drives are conducted with a private guide and vehicle.
What wildlife can we expect to see?
Elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, antelope and many other species can be seen during the safari.
What should we pack for this safari?
Comfortable neutral clothing, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars and soft luggage are recommended.
Is this safari good for honeymooners or couples?
Yes. The combination of fly-in convenience and boutique camps makes it ideal for romantic travel.
The silence of dawn on the Serengeti plains.
Elephants wandering beneath ancient baobabs.
The golden horizon stretching endlessly beyond sight.
Africa remembered not as a destination – but as a feeling.
ADD-ON
Enjoy a bird’s eye view, a hearty breakfast and a glass of champagne during a morning hot air balloon tour. Your entire trip will be unforgettable, but this will bring it to new heights.
Call for current pricing. Advanced reservations required.
Set against lush coffee plantations with views of Mount Meru, it offers serene luxury before or after safari. Spacious suites, elevated dining, and discreet five-star service define every stay. A polished sanctuary for travelers who expect comfort, calm, and distinction.
Manyara’s Secret is an exclusive hideaway perched above Lake Manyara, offering sweeping Rift Valley views and refined privacy.
Its spacious villas, elegant design, and serene atmosphere create a sense of effortless luxury. .
A stylish tented camp set in the heart of the Serengeti’s vast plains. It offers spacious en-suite tents, elegant design, and an authentic safari atmosphere. An ideal base for immersive game drives and unforgettable sunsets in the wild.
Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge sits on a hill in the central Serengeti with wide panoramic views of the plains. It blends modern luxury with a classic safari feel, offering spacious tents, an infinity pool, and quality dining. Its central location makes it perfect for year-round wildlife viewing and access to the Great Migration.
