Experience the initial stages of one of nature’s most challenging and captivating journeys during the calving season. This season marks the commencement of a massive migration, where millions of animals embark on a demanding expedition from the Serengeti to Masai Mara. On your 4-day calving season safari, you’ll explore Lake Manyara National Park, venture into the Serengeti to witness the calving grounds of Ndutu, and conclude your tour with a visit to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Arrival
After breakfast, you’ll depart from Arusha and embark on a 2-hour drive to reach Lake Manyara National Park.
Along the way, there will be a brief stop at the market town of Mto Wa Mbu. Upon arriving at Lake Manyara National Park, you’ll discover a photographer’s paradise with some of the finest game viewing opportunities worldwide. This park is home to many of Africa’s renowned animals, and the sight of tree-climbing lions is a particular highlight.
These majestic predators can often be found lounging in acacia trees, making for exceptional photo opportunities.
Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted by the diverse birdlife in Lake Manyara, featuring large flamingo flocks, soaring birds of prey, and the vividly colored lilac-breasted roller. Following your exploration, you’ll return to your chosen accommodation for dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep.
We’ll start the day with a picturesque drive towards the Serengeti. During this journey, we’ll traverse the misty rainforests of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering a chance to spot Cape buffaloes, baboons, and possibly elephants and leopards hiding in the dense undergrowth.
Continuing our journey, we’ll arrive at the Ndutu area in the southern part of Serengeti National Park. Ndutu serves as the traditional calving ground for wildebeest, and during the calving season, it hosts over 1.7 million of these animals as they prepare for their northward migration to Kenya.
While on your game drive, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to witness wildebeest and zebra calves taking their first steps, all while predators hunt for the weakest members of the herd. As you explore the stunning Serengeti landscape during your afternoon game drive, you’ll be immersed in the park’s natural beauty.
For dinner and overnight stay, you’ll be accommodated in the heart of Serengeti National Park.
You’ll rise before dawn to embark on a captivating sunrise game drive along the shores of Lake Ndutu. As the sun’s first rays illuminate the landscape, you’ll witness a breathtaking sight. This is a prime opportunity for wildlife observation.
Next, you’ll journey to Lake Masek, a freshwater lake known for its resident waterbirds and hippos. The surrounding area features abundant undergrowth, attracting elephants, giraffes, and antelopes.
Following your time at Lake Masek, you’ll venture into the Serengeti for another exhilarating game drive. In this iconic national park, you’ll have the chance to spot elegant giraffes, agile antelopes, foraging hyenas, sleek cheetahs, elusive leopards, and the majestic lions that have become symbolic of Africa’s wildlife. You can choose to enjoy a picnic lunch and spend the entire day on a game drive or split your day into morning and afternoon sessions, returning to your lodge for lunch in between to refuel and relax.
After breakfast, your journey continues as you depart for the Ngorongoro Crater, a place often regarded as the Eighth Wonder of the World. As you catch your first glimpse of this expansive, lush caldera from a panoramic viewpoint, its reputation will become evident.
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to more than 120 species of mammals, including the iconic Big Five. It ranks among the world’s most coveted safari destinations. Here, you have a unique opportunity to witness the solitary and endangered black rhinoceros as it grazes on the grassy plains. Additionally, you can observe a substantial population of hippopotamuses enjoying the refreshing waters.
From the comfort of your open-top vehicle, you’ll have the privilege of observing and photographing some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. After an exhilarating day of adventure, you’ll savor a picnic lunch at the park’s renowned hippo pool before returning to Arusha.
Explore Tanzania’s untamed wilderness with Untamed East Africa Safari. From the iconic Serengeti to the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, witness diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes on an unforgettable adventure.
© Untamed EA Ltd
