A 4-day fly-in calving safari is one of the most thrilling short safaris in Tanzania, designed to immerse you in the dramatic wildebeest calving season in the Ndutu Area and Southern Serengeti. Between January and March, over 400,000 wildebeest calves are born within a few weeks, attracting large predator concentrations and creating one of nature’s greatest wildlife spectacles.

By flying directly from Arusha or Zanzibar to an airstrip near Ndutu, you maximize your safari time and avoid long road transfers. This allows you to spend more time on the ground experiencing unforgettable game drives across the short-grass plains that nourish the migrating herds.

What to Expect on a 4-Day Fly-In Calving Safari

• Best Timing: December to March, with peak calving in February.
• Prime Location: Ndutu and the Southern Serengeti plains, where herds gather for grazing and birthing.
• Fly-In Convenience: Skip long drives with a direct flight into the Serengeti, starting your safari faster.
• Calving Season Drama: Witness synchronized wildebeest births, with thousands of calves born daily.
• Predator Encounters: High predator activity with lions, cheetahs, hyenas, and leopards hunting among the herds.
• Ngorongoro Crater Extension: Many itineraries include a stop at the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for the Big Five.

This safari is perfect for travellers who want an intense, action-filled wildlife adventure in a short time, combining the magic of the Serengeti migration with the richness of Ngorongoro.

Why Choose a Serengeti Fly-In Safari from Zanzibar?

The Serengeti calving season in Ndutu (southern Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area) is a wildlife spectacle, with millions of wildebeest giving birth and predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas on the prowl. Starting from Zanzibar, a fly-in safari saves time (1.5-2 hour flight vs. a full-day transfer) and pairs the thrill of the Great Migration with the convenience of luxury travel.

Key Highlights:

• See 500,000+ wildebeest calves born in Ndutu, especially in February.
• Spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) and 500+ bird species.
• Fly directly from Zanzibar to Serengeti’s Seronera or Ndutu airstrip.
• Stay in eco-friendly tented camps or lodges like Serengeti Sametu Camp or Similar.

Sample 4-Day Serengeti Calving Season Safari from Zanzibar

Day 1: Fly from Zanzibar to Serengeti – Seronera Game Drive

• Morning: Depart Zanzibar on a 1.5-2 hour flight to Seronera Airstrip in Serengeti National Park. Enjoy aerial views of the Indian Ocean and Serengeti plains. Upon arrival, meet your expert guide and start a game drive in the Seronera River Circuit, rich with lions, leopards, and elephants.
• Afternoon: Have a picnic lunch in the bush and continue exploring Central Serengeti’s wildlife hotspots.
• Evening: Check into a luxury tented camp.
• Accommodation: Serengeti Sametu camp in Central Serengeti.

Day-2: Ndutu Plains – Calving Season Wildlife

• Morning: After breakfast, drive to the Ndutu region, the heart of the wildebeest calving season. Witness thousands of new-born calves and zebras on the short-grass plains near Lake Ndutu, with predators like cheetahs and hyenas in pursuit. “Add an optional” hot air balloon safari ($550/person) for a breathtaking view of the herds at sunrise.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch and track the migration.
• Evening: Overnight at a Luxury tented camp in Ndutu, perfectly positioned for calving season action.
• Accommodation: Similar Lodge/ Tented camp in Ndutu.

Day 3: Ndutu and Ngorongoro Crater

• Morning: Continue game drives in Ndutu, capturing the drama of the calving season with 2 million wildebeest and zebras. Spot predators and iconic acacia-dotted landscapes.
• Afternoon: Transfer to the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. See black rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos at Lake Magadi.
• Evening: Stay at a the Retreat Ngorongoro luxury lodge on the crater rim.
• Accommodation: Lodge on Ngorongoro Crater rim.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater and Return to Zanzibar

• Morning: Embark on an early game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater for prime wildlife sightings, including buffalo and ostriches. Enjoy a picnic breakfast in the crater.
• Afternoon: Fly back to Zanzibar from a nearby airstrip. Arrive in Zanzibar by late afternoon.
• End: Zanzibar (Stone Town or beach resort).

What’s Included

• All park fees and permits for Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater Ndutu region.
• All flights (roundtrip)
• Comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for optimal game viewing.
• Professional driver-guide and full-board meals (as specified).
• Accommodation (camping, mid-range, or luxury, based on your preference).
• Drinking water during game drives and transfers.

What to Pack

• Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing for layering (5,000-9,000 ft altitude).
• Binoculars, camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
• Comfortable walking shoes and a hat for sun protection.

Book Your Tanzania Safari Today

Embark on a life-changing 5-day Tanzania safari with Tanzania Beauty Safaris. Our expertly crafted itineraries, sustainable practices, and dedication to customer satisfaction make us the top choice for your African safari adventure.

Contact us at info@tanzaniabeautysafaris.com