3-Day Serengeti Great Migration Wildebeest River Crossing / Calving Safari Itinerary
3 Day Ndutu Migration Safari Tour
Three Days 2 nights
Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
Serengeti Migration Safari
Camping | Mid-range | Luxury
3 Days Serengeti Great Migration Safari Tour
Price From $798
3 Day Great Migration Wildebeest River Crossing / Calving Safari Itinerary
Explore Serengeti's Great Wildebeest Migration in three days. The Migration that occurs in Tanzania and Kenya is one of the natural world's marvels—this three-day Serengeti safari itinerary will immerse you in the action. Experiencing a part of the great migration is truly awe-inspiring, and it represents one of the last chances to observe such a large-scale wildlife migration anywhere on the planet.
The Great Migration unfolds year-round as approximately 1.5 million blue wildebeests, along with zebras, embark on a long and often dangerous journey through the Serengeti and Maasai Mara.
Several significant events during the Great Wildebeest Migration occur at specific times throughout the year, although exact timings may shift based on rainfall patterns.
From January to February, the wildebeest calving season takes place, with around 8,000 calves born each day and an increase in big cat activity. This event happens in the Ndutu Plains within the Southern Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Between May and July, the Grumeti River crossing occurs, where millions of wildebeests navigate the crocodile-infested river in the Western Serengeti.
From mid-July to late September or mid-October to mid-November, the highlight of the Great Migration occurs—the Mara River crossing in northern Serengeti. During this time, millions of wildebeests traverse the crocodile-infested Mara River, moving between the Maasai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania. This spectacular event can be witnessed from Kogatende (northern Serengeti) or southern Masai Mara.
For the calving season in January/February, you can manage with a drive since it takes place in the southern Serengeti, roughly a 5-6 hour drive. However, for the river crossings, flying is necessary, as the Mara River crossing in northern Serengeti could require up to 13 hours of driving from Arusha, which isn’t practical within a three-day itinerary. On a longer trip, driving would typically be spread out over several days.
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Best times of year: The highlights of the Serengeti Great migration take place around January to February, May to July, mid-July to late September, and mid-October to mid-November
3 DAYS MIDRANGE GREAT MIGRATION SAFARI CALVING SEASON
On this three-day safari tour adventure, we will visit Tanzania’s three most famous locations – Ndutu (1 night), Serengeti National Park (1 night), and the Ngorongoro Crater. With our knowledgeable driver-guides, this will be an unforgettable journey! Based on trends from recent years, the likelihood of witnessing the migration is highest in the Ndutu region from the last week of December to March.
For this reason, we recommend scheduling your tour between the last week of December and the beginning of April. You will be accommodated in midrange hotels or lodges.
3-Days Western Serengeti Migration River Crossing Safari
The 3-Day Serengeti Migration Safari is a brief excursion in Serengeti National Park that guides you to the area of the park where the great migration occurs, depending on the time of your booking. Specifically, this 3-Day Serengeti Migration Safari leads you to the western section of Serengeti National Park during the months of June and July.
If you are eager to witness the remarkable wildebeest migration as they famously cross the Grumeti River, be sure to reserve this tour and prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking sights that await you.
Plan My 3 day Serengeti Safari tour Now!
Serengeti Migration in pictures
Related Three Days Tanzania Safari Tours
Frequently Asked Questions About 3-Day Serengeti And Ngorongoro Ndutu Safari
What is the Ndutu Migration Calving Safari?
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"The Ndutu Migration Calving Safari refers to the period during the Great Wildebeest Migration when thousands of wildebeest gather in the Ndutu region of the Southern Serengeti (Tanzania) to give birth to their calves. This typically occurs from January to March."
When is the best time to go?
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The best time for a Ndutu Migration Calving Safari is from January to March, as this is when the wildebeest calving season happens. The peak of calving usually occurs in February.
Why is the calving season so important?
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"The calving season is a crucial part of the migration cycle. It offers spectacular wildlife viewing, as over 8,000 wildebeest calves are born every day. Predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are also attracted to the area, making it an exciting time for safaris."
What can I expect to see during the Ndutu Migration Calving Safari?
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Wildebeest calving in large herds.
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Predator-prey interactions, including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunting for calves.
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Other wildlife such as zebras, gazelles, and giraffes.
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Stunning landscapes of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
What are the accommodation options in Ndutu?
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Ndutu has a variety of accommodation options including:
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Luxury tented camps (like Ndutu Safari Lodge and Ndutu Wilderness Camp)
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Mobile camps, offer a more rustic, immersive experience.
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Basic lodges and campsites for those on a budget.
How long should I stay for a calving safari?
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Typically, a stay of 3 to 5 days is ideal to explore the Ndutu region and experience the migration and calving process. Some people combine this with a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater or other parts of the Serengeti
Is the safari suitable for families?
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Yes, the Ndutu Migration Calving Safari is great for families, especially those with children interested in wildlife. Many lodges and camps cater to family needs, offering family-friendly activities. However, the long drives and nature of the safari may not be ideal for very young children.
Do I need a guide for this safari?
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Yes, a knowledgeable guide is essential for this type of safari. They will provide insights into the wildlife, migration patterns, and ensure safety. Many safaris offer expert guides who are familiar with the calving season.
What should I pack for a Ndutu Migration Calving Safari?
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Light-colored clothing (helps blend into the environment).
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Comfortable shoes for game drives.
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Camera gear for wildlife photography.
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Binoculars for viewing distant wildlife.
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Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (as temperatures can be hot).
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Warm clothes for cooler mornings and evenings.
Can I combine the Ndutu safari with other locations?
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Yes, many visitors combine their Ndutu calving safari with other top destinations, such as:
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Ngorongoro Crater (for wildlife and amazing landscapes)
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Central Serengeti (for more migration sightings)
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Lake Manyara or Tarangire National Park (for birdwatching and elephants)
