The Serengeti Calving Season Safari
Tour Overview
The calving season of the Great Serengeti Wildebeest Migration, an epic journey undertaken by countless wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, is a true spectacle of nature. From January to February, the herds trek through the vast expanse of Tanzania’s Serengeti, braving the challenges of terrain and weather. And while the migration route itself remains essentially unchanged for thousands of years, the exact timings of the journey are never predictable; it all depends on the magic of Mother Nature.
The Great Migration arrives in the southern regions of Serengeti in January and stays until March, as the animals search for fresh grazing and an abundance of nourishment. And the plains of Ngorongoro Conservation Area offer precisely that! These lush green lands, bursting with new life sprouted after the rainy season, make the perfect birthing place for female wildebeests. But the wildebeests aren’t the only ones on this epic trek – zebras and gazelles flank their sides, providing invaluable support by chomping down on taller grasses and giving way for the wildebeests to be able to graze since they can not feed on the tall grasses.
Embark on your journey of discovery and witness the Great Animal Migration in all its natural wonder. A true adventure awaits!
What are the reasons for considering a calving season safari as your preferred choice?
Venturing on a migration safari during the calving season will provide an awe-inspiring encounter with wildebeest mothers and their adorable newborns. Witnessing their tender moments of care and protection is sure to yank at your heartstrings and bring out your empathetic side. Additionally, the safari promises the excitement of spotting majestic big cats prowling around the plains, searching for their next successful hunt. And let’s not forget the breathtaking view of the vast Serengeti plains, dotted with herds of wildebeest grazing and grunting serenely, as far as your eyes can see. The abundance of adorable baby animals is just the color on top of this stunning and emotional journey through nature.
Tour Amenities
Trip Itinerary
Upon arrival, our expert safari guide will meet you at the airport and welcome you to Tanzania. You will then sit in your transfer vehicle as you drive towards Arusha town, the safari capital, today you will stay at Rivertrees Country Inn Lodge, a lovely charming safari lodge located in the lush green of the Meru Forest, this authentic Inn offers the best amenities like swimming pool where you can cool your body after a long flight or relax in a garden which overlook the Mount Meru or decide to go for Spa treatment. If time allows you will be briefed about your upcoming Tanzania adventure. Please note that your tonight's stay is based on BB.
After breakfast set out to south Serengeti National Park, a famous area bordering Ngorongoro Area called Ndutu, where the majestic wildlife exists Imagine immersing yourself in various habitats filled with life, from swamps and woodlands to soda lakes and the world-renowned Serengeti short grass plains. Witness the great herds of wildebeests and zebras, and be touched by their story of life. During a brief but critical period around February, a huge number of wildebeests give birth to their adorable calves. In the wide-open land of grass, the young are vulnerable to a range of predators. Yet, their resilience shines through as they start running within a few minutes of their birth and keep pace with the herd within three days. Let your heart be stirred by experiencing this magical moment of life! These two days are dedicated to exploring this region. You’ll stay at Ndutu Kati Kati Tented Camp, Get ready for a truly authentic safari experience at Ndutu Kati Kati Camp! From December to March, this seasonal mobile camp is perfectly situated in south Serengeti, offering an unbeatable opportunity to explore the vast landscape and witness the majestic migration. And what's more, you'll be doing it all from the comfort of your very own tented accommodation!
Immerse yourself in the wild surroundings and discover the rich animal life and vegetation of the area. This camp provides a unique and stylish form of accommodation that reminds you back to the campsites of the first African explorers. But fear not – they’ve made sure to include all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable and unforgettable stay.
Located just one hour away from Seronera (Central Serengeti) along a panoramic route, and just 30 minutes from the legendary Olduvai Gorge, Ndutu Kati Kati has been thoughtfully designed to have as little impact on the environment as possible. All of the infrastructures are mobile and their philosophy is simple: do not leave any trash behind.
Today you will drive to central Serengeti the haven of nature, "Get ready for a thrill-packed adventure in the Serengeti National Park! For two days, you'll embark on a mission to spot the most magnificent wildlife in Africa. Your expert guide will take you on an expedition to the most exclusive spots where you can witness the beauty of elephants, buffaloes, lions, cheetahs, and hyenas! But that's not all, picture yourself seeing majestic giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, topi, Grant’s and Thomson's gazelles, and an array of other mysterious animals in their natural habitat. The Seronera Valley is your gateway to a captivating experience that's sure to leave you mesmerized all year round!" You will stay at Kati Kati Tented Camp, "Situated right in the heart of the majestic Serengeti, the perfect safari camp for those eager to boldly explore the endless plains of this breathtaking region. With its luxurious tents and unparalleled safari experience, Kati Kati promises to leave guests feeling fully immersed in the stunning surroundings, allowing for unrivaled opportunities to witness the thriving wildlife and lush greenery up close.
Today early in the morning we will drive down the crater, embark on a thrilling adventure as you rise with the sun and set out from the lodge towards the Ngorongoro Crater. Passing through the gates of the Conservation Area Authority, you'll descend through the winding road of the crater, taking in the breathtaking views from the rim's view. Prepare to be enthralled as you explore the wildlife wonderland of the caldera floor, home to countless species of animals including lions, hyenas, and black rhinos.
Immerse yourself in the diverse habitats of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring the lush forests, grassy plains, and twinkling lake that make up this natural phenomenon. Take a break to enjoy a lakeside picnic lunch and stretch your legs before continuing your exploration.
As the sun begins to set, bask in the glory of a successful day filled with adventure and wildlife sightings, before returning to Ngorongoro Farm House for a delicious dinner and a refreshing nightcap, nestled in the heart of farmlands just beyond the bustling market of Karatu town lies the spectacular Ngorongoro Farm House. With 51 charming ochre stone cottages that are generously spacious and lavish, each one boasting polished stone floors, stylish decor, en suite bathrooms, and luxurious cream armchairs, some with a sweeping veranda that offers breathtaking vistas.
From the newer chalets, you can experience an exhilarating walk-through field and the tantalizing coffee plantations to reach the main lodge. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a stunning open-plan area that's been recently refurbished, perfect for relishing delicious meals and enjoying moments of pure relaxation. The expansive deck overlooking the farm is the ultimate spot to unwind, and grab a refreshing drink from the lodge minibar.
This breathtaking lodge is located on an impressive 500 acres of rich and fertile land. You'll be amazed by the vast coffee plantations, blooming wheat fields, luxuriant gardens, and extensive vegetable patches where all the ingredients for your meals are grown and prepared fresh daily. The lodge also boasts adorable farm animals, including pigs, goats, and cows that provide creamy farm-fresh milk for your enjoyment.
If you're looking for an adventure of a lifetime, Ngorongoro Farmhouse is the perfect place to stay. In addition to exploring the countless other exhilarating activities are waiting for you to bask in. Take a dip in the serene pool, hike through the enchanting terrain, or snuggle up by the cozy fire pit.
The ultimate adventure is nearing its completion. As you bid farewell to Ngorongoro Farm House staff, you embark on a thrilling journey to Kilimanjaro Airport to catch your flight back home. But fear not, intrepid explorer, for this, is only the beginning of your next escapade. Where shall your daring spirit take you next to discover more of this wondrous world? The possibilities are endless!
Inclusions / Exclusions
- The Package Comprises a Lodge Safari That Adheres to The Itinerary,
- Accompanied by A Proficient English-Speaking Guide,
- Transportation by 4Ă—4 Safari Vehicle,
- Overnight Lodge Accommodation,
- Meals,
- Mineral Water and All Activities as Outlined in The Itinerary.
- Furthermore, National Park Fees and Concession fee
- Flying Doctors Insurance (AMREF) During the Safari Are Included.
- Optional Activities,
- Alcoholic and Soft Drinks,
- Visa Fees,
- Tips to the drivers or camp staff.
- Personal Spending Money for Souvenir Purchases, and
- Travel Insurance Are Explicitly Excluded From The Package.
Booking Tour
Well done! You're now closer to planning your ultimate safari adventure! Join us and encounter the 'EAS-GUIDES magic'. Our team of skilled professionals will tailor your trip, guaranteeing you an unforgettable safari experience.
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Other Itineraries
8 Days Tanzania Camping Budget Safari
10 Days Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro
Best African Family Safari Vacation
What about Luxury lodges and camps?
Tanzania’s hospitality industry has garnered a commendable reputation for its top-notch accommodations. With numerous award-winning camps and lodges scattered throughout the national parks, this industry caters to a discerning clientele with a taste for high-end experiences.
A trip to Tanzania is sure to provide visitors with a luxurious stay that is nothing short of exceptional. Whether nestled in a remote location by the Tarangire River, surrounded by the Serengeti plains, or treated to stunning views of the Great Rift Valley, guests can expect nothing less than the finest wines, chef-prepared meals and a suite of indulgences that are synonymous with deluxe four or five-star hotels.
To ensure that our guests receive nothing but the best, we have meticulously handpicked hotels that have been highly rated. Additionally, our staff members regularly visit these accommodations to ensure that the quality and service delivered to our guests are consistent with our exacting standards.
Can you please explain what constitutes a game drive?
A game drive is an activity commonly organized in African game reserves and national parks where visitors go on guided tours to see wildlife in their natural habitat.
The drive can take place at different times of the day and typically lasts between 6-8 hours. Visitors are accompanied by experienced guides, who can offer insight into the different animals and birds encountered during the tour.
To maximize the chances of seeing animals, guides often use specialized vehicles that are open, allowing visitors to move around and observe wildlife from different angles. Game drives are popular with tourists as they provide a unique and unforgettable experience of the natural world.
What is a Safari?
Have you ever heard of a safari? Wondering what sets it apart from a regular vacation?
The term safari has roots in the Swahili language, signifying a journey and serving as the foundation for the verb “to travel” in this East African tongue. When seeking a remarkable safari experience, Tanzania reigns as the top destination throughout Africa. Not only does Tanzania showcase the biggest national parks, but it features UNESCO World Heritage Sites and lays claim to Africa’s highest mountain.
Serengeti National Park, located in Tanzania, has consistently been recognized as the leading safari destination in Africa for multiple years in a row. This accolade serves as a testament to Tanzania’s position as the top country for safaris in the continent, as Serengeti National Park has been awarded the title of ‘Best Safari Destination’ by experts, surpassing several national parks within Africa.
A safari in Africa offers more than just a mere vacation but a compelling travel experience. It is noteworthy that advertising ‘safaris’ at other destinations such as Thailand or India is significantly different and cannot be matched to an African safari. Additionally, these excursions to observe animals lack any historical relevance to the Swahili word ‘safari.
Do I need Visa?
It is mandatory to have a visa for entry. The visa fee is USD 50 per individual, whereas US citizens are required to pay USD 100 per person. While it is possible to obtain visas on arrival, it is advisable to obtain them beforehand.
Do I need Travel Insurance?
To safeguard against unforeseen events that may disrupt travel plans, travel protection plans offer a range of benefits including coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay, and other customizable options.
As a responsible travel operator, EAS Guides mandates all travelers to acquire essential Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation insurance protection. This rudimentary coverage, also known as Post-Departure or Travel Med, is available for as little as $60 per person and guarantees peace of mind during travel.
How do I tip?
While tipping is not mandatory, it is customary to show appreciation for exceptional service. To assist you in determining an appropriate gratuity, below are some suggested tipping ranges per person per day/vehicle, based on the number of people in the vehicle:
– 6 people: $10 to $15 per person per day
– 4 people: $12 to $20 per person per day
– 2 people: $15 to $25 per person per day
If you are on a camping safari, it felt your chef should be tipped like the safari guide, as they work as a team. Most lodges/camps have a tip box at the front desk, and we recommend using it instead of tipping individuals so that everyone who contributed to your enjoyable experience can share in gratitude, including those working behind the scenes. In most lodging and hotels, it is usually for staff members to offer assistance with your luggage. While it is common to consider tipping as an appropriate gesture, the decision to do so is ultimately at your discretion.
About Kilimanjaro Tipping
These are our recommended tipping guidelines when trekking on Kilimanjaro (not per climber): Guides should receive $15/day, assistant guides should receive $10/day, cooks should receive $10/day, and porters should receive $5/day. For every 2 hikers, we suggest having 1 guide, for every 3 hikers, 1 assistant guide, and for every 8 hikers, 1 cook. The number of porters should meet the following minimums:
– 4 porters per hiker for the 8-day Lemosho Route (minimum of 8 porters)
In some cases, additional porters might be required based on luggage weight. We recommend a budget of $250-300 per hiker for tips during an 8-day trek.
How about Security?
While Tanzania is generally a secure country, it is advisable to exercise caution. Avoid attracting attention by keeping a watchful eye on your personal belongings. It is recommended to refrain from walking in towns or cities after dark and instead, opt for a taxi.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or displaying valuable items like cameras, as these can make you a target for pickpockets. Use hotel safety deposit boxes and ensure to obtain a receipt to secure your valuable possessions. Consider leaving valuable jewelry at home to avoid any unwanted attention.
How about Health?
It is essential for all individuals traveling from yellow fever-endemic countries/regions to obtain the yellow fever vaccine. This requirement applies to individuals who are in transit for at least 12 hours or those who venture beyond the immediate airport premises in a yellow fever endemic area. Furthermore, individuals from yellow fever endemic regions traveling via air, marine, or land transportation must also meet this vaccination requirement. The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of the United Republic of Tanzania has reinstated HEALTH SURVEILLANCE DESKS in all border crossings, ports, and international airports. Therefore, it is crucial to carry your health certificates when entering Tanzania. While malaria is endemic in Tanzania, it is preventable by taking appropriate measures, including using insect repellent, protecting oneself at sundown, sleeping under a mosquito net, and taking anti-malaria prophylactics as prescribed by a medical professional. It is wise to bring prescription medication, spare glasses, contact lenses, solution, sunscreen, a first aid kit, cream for insect bites and stings, and medication for diarrhea.
About Covid-19
To enter Tanzania, travelers arriving from or transiting through Uganda or the DRC need to complete a Traveler’s Health Surveillance Form at least 24 hours before their arrival. The completed form will generate a Unique Health Code (UHC), which the traveler needs to present upon arrival. To access the form, please follow this link: https://afyamsafiri.moh.go.tz/. For those arriving directly in Zanzibar, please use this alternative link.
While proof of Covid-19 vaccination is not required, arriving guests are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated. No RT-PCR certificates or Rapid Antigen tests are needed upon arrival; however, guests will undergo thermal and physical screenings. It is essential to review your airlines and international airport(s) pre-boarding testing requirements carefully. Kindly ensure you read and understand the full regulations to avoid any inconvenience during your travel and entry into Tanzania. A significant number of our visitors transit via Amsterdam, and it’s important to note that as of now, passengers who do not exit Schiphol Airport are not subject to Covid-19 testing protocols.
